Luci Soars


Book Description

From the New York Times bestselling illustrator of Turning Pages by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor comes an emotionally resonant picture book about learning that what sets you apart is often what makes you great. Luci was born without a shadow. Mamá says no one notices. But Luci does. And sometimes others do too. Sometimes they stare, sometimes they tease Luci, and sometimes they make her cry. But when Luci learns to look at what makes her different as a strength, she realizes she has more power than she ever thought. And that her differences can even be a superpower. From three-time Pura Belpré Award honoree Lulu Delacre comes a heartfelt and uplifting story with a timeless message: what sets you apart is often what makes you great. Praise for Luci Soars: "This urban fable encourages readers to claim their space"--Kirkus Reviews *"Simple and powerful . . . a great read-aloud for educators to discuss emotions, bullying, acceptance of differences, self-esteem and empowerment." --Youth Services Book Review, starred review




Turning Pages


Book Description

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor tells her own story for young readers for the very first time! As the first Latina Supreme Court Justice, Sonia Sotomayor has inspired young people around the world to reach for their dreams. But what inspired her? For young Sonia, the answer was books! They were her mirrors, her maps, her friends, and her teachers. They helped her to connect with her family in New York and in Puerto Rico, to deal with her diabetes diagnosis, to cope with her father's death, to uncover the secrets of the world, and to dream of a future for herself in which anything was possible. In Turning Pages, Justice Sotomayor shares that love of books with a new generation of readers, and inspires them to read and puzzle and dream for themselves. Accompanied by Lulu Delacre's vibrant art, this story of the Justice's life shows readers that the world is full of promise and possibility--all they need to do is turn the page. Praise for Turning Pages: * "A sincere and insightful autobiography that also demonstrates the power of the written word. A winning addition to libraries that serve young readers." --School Library Journal, starred review "A personal and appealing book made to inspire." --Booklist "A thoughtful introduction to both the power of reading and an inspiring role model." --Kirkus Reviews "This book would be great as a read-aloud for class discussions of the Supreme Court, or United States government, or of important people in public service. It would also be good for independent reading by students interested in biographies or political figures." --School Library Connection




The Field Day from the Black Lagoon (Black Lagoon Adventures #6)


Book Description

These fun-filled chapter books mix school, monsters, and common kid problems with hilarious results. You'll scream with laughter! The Field Day is one week away, and everyone has to go. But Hubie would rather go home! Crazy Coach Kong is making up all the events, like leaping over lions, hopping over hippos, skipping through snakes, and tiptoeing around tigers. Will it be a field day or dreams or a field day of screams?




Something to Prove


Book Description

In 1936, the New York Yankees wanted to test a hot prospect named Joe DiMaggio to see if he was ready for the big leagues. They knew just the ballplayer to call—Satchel Paige, the best pitcher anywhere, black or white. For the game, Paige joined a group of amateur African American players, and they faced off against a team of white major leaguers plus young DiMaggio. The odds were stacked against the less-experienced black team. But Paige's skillful batting and amazing pitching—with his "trouble ball" and "bat dodger"— kept the game close. Would the rookie DiMaggio prove himself as major league player? Or would Paige once again prove his greatness—and the injustice of segregated baseball?







Revolution Is Not a Dinner Party


Book Description

The summer of 1972, before I turned nine, danger began knocking on doors all over China. Nine-year-old Ling has a very happy life. Her parents are both dedicated surgeons at the best hospital in Wuhan, and her father teaches her English as they listen to Voice of America every evening on the radio. But when one of Mao's political officers moves into a room in their apartment, Ling begins to witness the gradual disintegration of her world. In an atmosphere of increasing mistrust and hatred, Ling fears for the safety of her neighbors, and soon, for herself and her family. For the next four years, Ling will suffer more horrors than many people face in a lifetime. Will she be able to grow and blossom under the oppressive rule of Chairman Mao? Or will fighting to survive destroy her spirit—and end her life? Revolution Is Not a Dinner Party is a 2008 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.




Rafi and Rosi: Carnival!


Book Description

Two Latin American tree frogs, mischievous Rafi and his younger sister Rosi, enjoy the events of Puerto Rico's Carnival season.




Golden Tales


Book Description

Twelve classic tales from Latin America - before and after the days of Columbus.




How Far Do You Love Me?


Book Description

Based on a bedtime game that author and illustrator Lulu Delacre played with her young daughters, How Far Do You Love Me? is an 'I Love You' book with a twist. With every expression of love, readers visit one of 13 locations around the world, each a beautifully illustrated scene of adults and children in a place of natural beauty. As bedtime - or any quiet time - approaches, gather close with a special person in your life and get ready to let your imagination soar to place after place of love as you embark on a game of 'How far do you love me?'




Above and Beyond the Writing Workshop


Book Description

When writing workshops first blossomed in classrooms, its hallmarks were genuine curiosity, individual choice, quality conversations, and engaging children's literature. A joyous hum of intention, creativity, and craft enlivened the school day. Today's teachers are often faced with a range of obstacles, as new initiatives are embraced, mandates handed down, and scripted programs are purchased. Sometimes teachers must sacrifice the original principles of the writing workshop and lose the creative venue they provide. Above and Beyond the Writing Workshop is filled with original writing challenges designed to bring back the spirit of the original writing workshop model and encourage teachers to enhance it with invention, innovation, and inspiration. Teaching creative writing is not only possible, but an important process in their instruction. Author Shelley Harwayne invites teachers to keep the workshop spirit alive by: Encouraging professional conversations on classroom ideas and methods between colleagues; Developing writing cues that allow young writers to be inquisitive, outspoken, and independent; Showing how high quality writing can make a difference; Offering an inspired and stimulating outlet for students to express their passions. Harwayne's book will help teachers encourage students to write the world around them, which can generate more critical thinking and make for a more well-rounded child.