Book Review: Personal Space Camp With Activity and Idea Book

Author: Julia Cook

Illustrator: Carrie Hartman
Interest Level: Ages 4-8

About This Book: Louis is back! And this time, he's learning all about personal space. Louis, a self-taught space expert is delighted to learn that his teacher has sent him to the principal's office to attend personal space camp. Eager to learn more about lunar landings, space suits, and other cosmic concepts, Louis soon discovers that he has much to learn about personal space right here on earth. Written with style, wit, and rhythm, Personal Space Camp addresses the complex issue of respect for another person's physical boundaries. Told from Louis' perspective, this story is a must-have resource for parents, teachers, and counselors who want to communicate the idea of personal space in a manner that connects with kids.

About The Supplementary Guide: This is the perfect companion to Personal Space Camp. This teacher's guide will further help you teach your students how to recognize and respect the personal space zones of others. Through interactive discussion questions and exercises, you'll be able to teach children the concept of personal space and help them realize the value of respecting other's feelings by giving them the "room" they need.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Julia Cook's books are an absolute hit with our students. I was ecstatic when I found Personal Space Camp. I'd already been using My Mouth Is A Volcano to reinforce school skills like raising your hand and waiting your turn to talk. But what about when kids are in each others space during "carpet time" or pushing and shoving in the cafeteria line? These behaviors can make instruction difficult and cause a lot of teacher angst. I don't know how many times I've had to say, "Please, keep your hands to yourself." Personal Space Camp is a life saver book. Angst will be decreased!  

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Book Review: My Mouth Is A Volcano

Author: Julia Cook

illustrated by Carrie Hartman

Interest Level: Ages 4 and Up

About This Book: Louis always interrupts! All of his thoughts are very important to him and when he has something to say, his words rumble and grumble in his tummy, they wiggle and jiggle on his tongue, and press firmly against his teeth, right before he ERUPTS ( or interrupts). His mouth is a volcano! But when others begin to interrupt Louis, he learns how to respectfully wait for his turn to talk.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Because it simply rocks!  Teaching kids to not interrupt is huge. We have many 'chronic blurters' (said with love) at our school. Dr. Laura A Jana, National Trainer for Reach Out and Read says it best, "Finally!...A book that deals with the universal challenge of teaching children the social nuances of polite conversation, not interrupting, and when to stop talking." You will have a lot of fun with this book. It's a gentle and smart way to teach children how to manage their thoughts and words without interrupting. This book is a STAPLE in my curriculum for teaching school skills. Every teacher and counselor should own this book. 

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