Celebrating the Power of Picture Books

Thanks to Cathy Mere and Mandy Robek for hosting this event. So excited to be participating in #Pb10for10! Books make everything better and we need to find a little joy in our lives right now... Lucky for us, celebrating picture books is a wonderful thing to do. So for this selection I have chosen a variety of texts (and included some newbies on the way to keep an eye out for) that can impact the conversations we are having to help strengthen our community of learners in what ever environment that may be.

Through a lens of joy and self-love the following texts can add layers to the conversations we should be having around the beauty and array of our identities, family structures, and can also help nurture inclusive, caring communities where differences and similarities are respected and celebrated.

These are must-haves for building commUNITY all year long.

Your Name is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins Bigelow, illustrated by Luisa Uribe (Innovation Press) When a child is frustrated by the mispronunciation of her name, Jamilah Thompkins Bigelow addresses the beauty, history and celebration of all names. Learning the stories of our names is one of the first steps on our journey to grow together as a community of learners. As individuals and as a community, we come to appreciate and value the stories we have to share all year long. Share this link to see and hear the author’s pronunciations of the names featured in her story.

You Matter written and illustrated by Christian Robinson (Simon and Schuster). In Robinson's newest book readers will enjoy seeing artful text and images that demonstrate the many ways we are connected and the many ways we all matter. Share with your readers to explore multiple perspectives, interpret changing points of view and help students celebrate their unique and wonderful qualities. Read along with Christian Robinson here.

I Got the School Spirit written by Connie Schoefield-Morrison and illustrated by Frank Morrison (Bloomsbury). In their latest collaboration husband and wife team up to showcase a joyful, energetic, young black girl who has a zest for all things. In this “I Got” text the contagious enthusiasm for school will inspire others to find and reflect on those joyful moments in school and in life! Read to find ways to create school smiles, memories, and moments that matter.

Speak Up written by Miranda Paul and illustrated by Ebony Glenn (Clarion Books).

Share this inspiring book with readers of all ages to explore how our words, our choices, and our actions can make a difference. Miranda Paul with illustrations by Ebony Glenn invite us to consider the many ways we can use our voice to speak out and make a difference. Check out this link to the book trailer and more at the authors website.

All Because You Matter written by Tami Charles and illustrated by Bryan Collier (Scholastic).

Through text that is part love letter to black and brown children, this book celebrates the beauty of black lives and as author Tami Charles states, "to support conversations around racial climate in our country.” The artwork by Bryan Collier will take your breath away. Listen and learn from author Tami Charles here. Pre order now!

I am Every Good Thing written by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by Gordon C. James (Nancy Paulsen Books). In this powerful empowering, joyful picture book we see the next collaboration between Barnes and James (The Crown). This text has equally affirming beautiful words and images to celebrate black boy joy. Readers and writers will love the repetitive lines - perfect to extend student led conversations that can empower and also can inspire writers of all ages.

The Power of One written by Trudy Ludwig and illustrated by Mike Curato (Knopf Books). This picture book demonstrates that it just takes one small act to make a difference. Beyond the golden rule, this is another call-to-action book to stimulate rich discussions about making a difference in our classes, our communities, and our world.

Jacob’s Room to Choose written by Ian and Sarah Hoffman and illustrated by Chris Chase (Magination Press). In this companion to Jacob’s New Dress, an important book about appreciating individual gender expressions, we see Jacob and his friend, Sophie who both feel uneasy about which bathroom to use. This book can spark conversations around acceptance of nonconforming gender expressions as part of a spectrum of identities that makes each of us unique and wonderful.

Early Sunday Morning written by Denene Millner and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton (Agate Bolden Books). In this heartwarming story, we follow June as she prepares to sing her first solo in her church choir. Overcome with fear, June is given advice from her loving family that helps her conquer her fears and find her voice. Readers will be treated to a celebration of family, faith, music, and traditions with an additional layer for conversations about the very real issue of facing our fears and anxieties.

Just Like a Mama written by Alice Faye Duncan and illustrated by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow (Simon and Schuster). This book illustrates the unconditional love between a girl raised by Mama Rose, and celebrates adoption and forever families, but it can also help with discussions around the beauty of families and varying family structures. Read to share as a vehicle to explore the school community as a type of family, full of nurturing relationships and individuals who care about—and for—one another.

Happy Reading!

With hugs and book love,

JoEllen McCarthy

#NFPB10for10 Making Herstory Known

#NF10for10

Role Makers & Rule Breakers: Making “Herstory”

Thanks to Cathy Mere and Mandy Robek for hosting another celebration of picture books!  Every day is a great day for a picture book.  

This year’s #nfpb10for10 list features strong women.

"Strong women, may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them.

"Shaking Things Up 14 Young Women Who Changed the World
Written by Susan Hood with illustrations by Selina Alko, Sophie Blackall, Sara Palacios, Isabel Roxas,
Melissa Sweet and many more!

Susan Hood explores 14 inspiring rebels, activists, trail-blazers and role models.  
The picture book has unique text structure with poetic verse, each illustrated by an
equally inspiring and talented female illustrators. The book is  gift for all females.
The paired texts and poems are all complemented with additional resources that include:
famous lines, quotes, and a bonus timeline, author’s notes and opportunity for further
research.  

"When the whole world is silent, even one voice becomes powerful.” - Malala Yousafzai

Malala’s Magic Pencil- Written by Malala Yousafzai and illustrated by Kerascoet.

The Nobel Peace Prize winner wrote her first picture book (there are sure to be more) about
her childhood and her message.  Like Malala's message, told with great voice and artwork
that is equally stunning.  Gilded ink from represents the magic streaming from her pencil.
Must-have to discuss injustices in our world, with a real live role model.

"To all the little girls who are watching, never doubt that you are valuable
and powerful and deserving of every chance and opportunity in the world to pursue
and achieve your own dreams." - Hillary Clinton

Level the Playing the Field:The Past, Present, and Future of Women’s
Pro Sports

Written By Kristina Rutherford

Hmmm… ever wonder why the pro experience is so different for a man than a woman?
Sports fans of all genders will have a chance to explore and reflect on  opportunity, progress,
and women in sports!  This takes a realistic and optimistic look at a world where women
hopefully one day be equal to men.

"A strong woman is a woman determined to do something others are determined not be done"Marge Piercy

Kate Warne Pinkerton Detective-

Written by Marissa Moss Illustrated by April Chu

Like many of Marissa Moss’s picture book biographies, this is another carefully researched

story of a little-known, ground breaker.  Kate Warne defied all expectations and became the
first female detective, determined, fearless and ready to do anything a man can do... better.

"Women are the real architects of society."—Harriet Beecher Stowe

The World is Not a Rectangle- Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid

Jeannette Winters celebrates architect Zaha Hadid. As a Muslim woman, Zaha faced
many obstacles, yet she succeeded in achieving her goals.  Great book to use as a vehicle for
conversations about injustices due to religion, gender, ethnicity and the strength it takes to
overcome such adversity.  

“‎The desire to reach the stars is ambitious. The desire to reach hearts is wise and most
possible.” – Maya Angelou

Maya Lin- Artist -Architect of Light and Lines

Written by Jeanne Walker Harvey and Illustrated by Dow Phumiruk

This picture book looks at the Chinese- American sculptor/ visionary artist,  world renowned
for her design of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Don’t let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity.
It's your place in the world; it's your life. Go on and do all you can with it, and make it the
life you want to live. -Mae Jemison (check out Mae Among the Stars by Rhoda Ahmed)

The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes-The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath

Written by Julia Finley Mosca and illustrated by Dainel Riely

This book celebrates a powerful woman who impacted medical history.  
The curiosity and passion of Patricia Bath, the first African American female opthamologist,
was responsible for her creation of a laser probe for cataracts. She received a patent, and
advocated for an institute for the prevention of blindness. Told in rhyme, simple texts that
celebrates another “shero”!

“You really can change the world, if you care enough.” Marian Wright Edeleman

Little Leaders-Bold Women in Black History

Written and illustrated by Vashti Harrison

I cheated a little, this is more than a picture book. Vashti Harrison’s debut is a collection of stories about
inspirational young leaders. The short stories/essays and back matter reference more leaders to learn from.
Much needed exploration of women and black history - all year long!

"Create the highest, grandest vision possible for your life, because you become what you
believe." -Oprah

Women Who Broke the Rules (Series)

Written by Kathleen Krull. Check out the many options:
http://www.kathleenkrull.com/women-who-broke-the-rules/

"A feminist is anyone who recognizes the equality and full humanity of women &  men."

—Gloria Steinem

Gloria’s Voice- Feminist, Activist, Leader by Aura Lewis

Due out Spring 2018

Gloria’s Voice- is the unofficial biography of Gloria Steinem.  Learn about her life, and
the experiences that shaped who she is.  With endnotes including page by page
information as to the inspiration behind the story.  

Happy Reading!

@JoEllenMcCarthy

#PB10for10

What a wonderful time of year! #PB10for10 is here! 

Love getting to see all of the great recs and suggestions for picture book must-haves. A special thanks to Cathy Mere and Mandy Robek for finding the space and place for this community to celebrate picture books!

It is a favorite time of year.  Great opportunity to connect with our PLN, share favorite, "can't live without" picture books and find ways to strengthen our community of learners.  This year, I wanted to share a list of must -haves that empower readers and teach lessons in literacy & in life!  Happy Reading!

Welcome- Mo Willems

This title is the latest from Mo Willems.  Although it was written as a book to welcome newborns, the messages are universal for establishing routines, expectations and the foundation for Book Love!  As Mo suggests, we are each a combination of "love, time and luck" - and how lucky are we to get to spend the year teaching and learning from each other!

Come With Me- Holly McGhee & Pascal Lemuitre

Holly McGhee is a real #heartprintbook author.  Her books will make your heart go, bah-bump, bah-bump.  This book is no exception. In a world where there is anger and hatred, we must spread kindness.  From the story behind the story Holly said, "There are things we can do, for ourselves and for our children, especially when the world seems so full of hate."  Reading books like these really can make the world a better place.  Due out Sept. 5th. 

Read! Read! Read! Amy Ludwig Vanderwater & Ryan O'Rourke

Read! Read! Read!  Need I say more?  Ahhh, more #poetrylove from Amy Ludwig Vanderwater!  Another need to know about (sorry not out until Sept-- but it is so worth the wait) poetry collection from Amy.  In this book, readers are gifted with poems that celebrate the joy of reading!   In this collection , reading and #LearningISJoyful! A great mentor text and resource to reflect on all kinds of reading, explore reading identities and celebrate the reading journeys your students are about to begin with you this year!

Brave - Stacy McAnulty and Joanne Lew-Vriethoff

Stacy McAnulty has become a new favorite picture book author of mine.  I love so many of her books.  Excellent Ed (for growth mindset/ goal setting) and Beautiful (for empowering girls) have made my top 10 lists before. Brave is another must-have! Brave follows the same structure as Beautiful, page after page, exploring what it means to be brave.  Throughout the book, the reader gets a glimpse of brave as impacts leading, taking risks, and having a courageous heart (my favorite page where it takes courage in the dark to find a lost book).  :-)  Readers will love the opportunity to explore every day challenges and expectations for a class of real heroes.  

Life- Cynthia Rylant and Brendan Wenzel

These award winning authors have created something magical. "There is so much to love about life."  A look at nature  balance of good, bad and struggles in life through the eyes of animals big and small.  Layers to discuss with students of all ages.  An inspirational picture book.  We must always find the wonderful in life. 

Lovely- Written and Illustrated by Jess Hong

Lovely by Jess Hong and Creston Books is another empowering picture book.  On every page you will find illustrations that celebrate the unique and wonderful world we live in.  The book begins with the question, "What is lovely?" The responses are simple and complex with each image comparing, contrasting and connecting what makes us different and lovely all the same! 

I Don't Draw, I Color! - Adam Lehraupt and Felicita Sala

Love this book to discuss emotions, empathy, and creative expression.  The boy does not think he is good at drawing, but loves exploring life through coloring.  The colors represent emotions and the is book teaches readers that "we are each unique colorful masterpieces made of many feelings."  A great way to build community, empathy and reflect on one's mindset.  This book ends with the question, "What colors are you?"

The Book of Mistakes- Written & Illustrated by Corinna Luyken 

 A simple picture book with a powerful message that mistakes can be beautiful.  One idea, one mistake, can grow and lead to another idea and on and on.  When we celebrate this mindset in art and in life, we all grow. 

Mary Had a Little Glam - Tammi Sauer & Vanessa Brantley-Newton

Mary Had a Little Glam, by Tammi Sauer is so much more than a fractured fairy tale. A playful rhyming text with a brown skinned queen of glam. Love this role model and alternative to Fancy Nancy. Mary is starting off the new school year with some nursery rhyme friends, but adding her glam can also be a mentor for revision in life.  Sometimes we need to know when to fix and fancy up our writing but we also need to know when less is more.  Love the connection to joyful learning communities too.  

Someone Like Me -Patricia MacLachlan & Chris Sheban

Patricia MachLachlan's Someone Like Me is semi autobiographical.  It is a simple text that explores the power of stories and memories. A great read aloud to launch writing workshop and inspire writers to look for the stories around them.  All observations, memories and moments can impact a writer's life.  What might you become if you listen and learn from the power of stories?   Empowers writers.  

Now - Antoinette Portis 

The book I want to leave you with is the book Now, by Antoinette Portis.  The little girl talks about her favorites... right now.  A perfect reminder of mindfulness, being present and appreciating the moments we are living in as well as the students in front of us.  It is hard to select the top 10 texts without being mindful of what book will reach what student at what time.  There is no one perfect match, but when we get to know our readers we can find the books that just might be good fits right now.  

Wishing all friends a year filled with fabulous books and time to cherish all with the students they are with now and always.   Happy reading!

#MustHaveRecs

Don't you just love this time of year? "Best of" lists are everywhere!  Readers are celebrating what makes their "must- have" recs. People are gearing up for ALA & Mock Caldecotts are happening in classrooms all around us. When we share our favorites, we are spreading the gift of reading, and that is a win-win for all! 

Everyone who knows me, knows I am passionate about picture books.  I believe they are priceless and ageless. So my first list contains a few favorite titles I have used working with students and lead learners in K-8 classrooms. They are texts that support mini lessons for reading, writing and learning with the CommonCARE standards in mind. 

In the Fall, Chris Lehman and I kicked off The Educator Collaborative's Study Series with a session on Little Practices to Bring Energy and Joy to Your Learning Community.  Books bring us joy every day.  So first up, Jo Witek's latest, All My Treasures: A Book of Joy.  It celebrates the intangible nature of joy and serves as a great mentor text to get writers thinking about what brings them joy.  

If you read any number of best of book lists, the selections may vary but one thing remains the same, picture books can be powerful co-teachers.  Just as Mem Fox had Wilfrid Gordon Macdonald Partridge exploring what makes a memory, Micha Archer's Daniel celebrates the endless of possibilities of poetry. This book teaches readers to find beauty and poetry in words, in nature, and all over our world. 

Award- winning author, Sara O'Leary has teamed up with illustrator Qin Ling to explore the unique and special ways that families are all different - yet all the same.  What a wonderful book to explore theme, central message, build commUNITY and empathy.  A win for all ages! 

 Andrew Larsen and Mike Lowery have given us a great new addition to add to our launch unit of studies. Love its  message :"You are the boss of your own story."

When you believe anything is possible... anything is possible.  This fun "fable-ish" story from Gemma Merino celebrates individuality, creativity and risk taking.  Perfect text to add to our collection of growth mindset texts.

With the next two selections, I found a new mentor author to love.  In Excellent Ed, Stacy McAnulty teams up with Julia Sarcone-Roach. We meet Ed, an adorable dog from the Ellis family. This book has alliteration, word play and a heart felt message. Share to reflect on ways we can all strive to be the very best we can be.  Great for goal setting conversations too.

Another gift from Stacy McAnulty (with Joanne Lew-Vriethoff) is a book that is Beautiful!  Empower others and find beauty in each and every one of us. LOVE the illustrations and word play. Lots to unpack and explore. 

J.J. Austian and Mike Curato created  Worm Loves Worm.  A beautiful book with a big message about equality, inclusion and love.

Quit Calling Me a Monster was written by Jory John and illustrated by Bob Shea.  This talented duo of kid lit rockstars  come together again to teach a big lesson with a powerful punch!

Christopher Silas Neal brings us a picture book about feelings. It is a wonderful examination of emotions, universal feelings and empathy in action. 

Sergio Ruzzier has managed to capture the power of a picture book with his playful title It's Not a Picture Book. It is a celebration of reading, writing and thinking through pictures and words! Fun, fun, fun!

Another book that celebrates the gift of reading is The Highest Mountain of Books in the World, by Rocio Bonilla.  Great message about how books can take you anywhere. "You don't need wings to fly..." 

Dan Yaccarino's latest has readers reflecting on the power of story.  I recommend  this "must-have" for launching reading and writing workshop as well. Great reminder to take the time to share stories and build relationships getting to know our community of learners. 

Brendan Wenzel's simple picture book is beyond brilliant. Cannot say enough about how much I love this book.  Layers and layers of possibilities for teaching empathy, understanding, perspective, inferences about literacy and life lessons!

Quite honestly, Peter Reynolds makes every must-have list I write and his latest heartprintbook is no exception.  A wonderful text to explore how learning matters most when it involves something we love and care about. (Be on the lookout for his next heartprintbook, Happy Dreamer too. It is amazing!)

                                           

When we marry passion and purpose, anything is possible. Love Kleber's More-igami for connecting creativity, play and passion at the center of all learning.

Todd Parr had two new books out this year.  Teachers Rock (must have gift for teachers/coaches & edufriends) and this adorable picture book with a message about individuality: Be Who You Are. Perfect for conversations with learners of all ages!

Sensing a theme on my list of faves?  We can all teach empathy, kindness, commUNITY and love through powerful picture books. 

I look forward to continuing the conversation with friends on line and IRL.  It is never about one book, one list, or one must-have.  It is about celebrating mentor authors and mentor texts that touch our students hearts and minds.   

Happy reading and share, share, share! 

What titles make your "must-have" list? #MustHaveRecs