We know that a big part of the CCSS is to include more informational texts into ourstudents' reading. I quickly discovered I had a "gap" in my reading diet - the genre of informational texts! To help me fill the gap this year, I am going to participate in Nonfiction Picture Book Wednesdays! This is a great link-up hosted by Kid Lit Frenzy. Please visit this website to see other educator's link-ups. My goal is to read at least one informational text each week and post information on the blog. The more books and subjects I read, the more I can encourage (my #OLW for 2014) other teachers to use in their classroom!
A couple of new NFPB came in for me at the library this week.
Viva Frida by Yuyi Morales
3/5 stars
I have been intrigued by this book since it appeared on Betsy Bird's potential Caldecott list back in late summer. My interest was piqued after seeing a variety of reviews come in since then. My library finally got it in and I was excited to dig in. Hmmmm. It was interesting. My first read of the story I was intrigued by the interesting use of puppets and paintings for the illustrations. The text is very simple, but interesting that the Spanish translation is included. After the first read, I felt like I didn't really understand anymore of who Frido Kahlo was. After reading the Author's Note in the back, I felt like I had a little more information. After reading that, I went back for a second read. This time the simple text made more sense and I found more meaning in the illustrations. I still found this picture book lacking in details of Frida's life, but it was definitely a celebration of artistry found within the illustrations. It will be interesting at award time to see if it will get recognition.
Tiny Creatures: The World of Microbes by Nicola Davies
5/5 stars
Before reading this, I really don't remember studying microbes in school. I'm sure I did, it sounds like something to do with biology, but I could not give you a definition. Davies does an incredible job explaining microbes - tiny, living creatures that look different and have different jobs on our planet. The illustrations work so well to make the learning visual for young readers. I think this book would make a fantastic mentor text for central message/key details. This is a book I will be adding to my personal collection!
I am so glad you like Tiny Creatures, Michele. I learned quite a few things. I love Viva Frida too but it's a very different exploration of an artist's life. The illustrations are one-of-a-kind; to honor Frida more than anything else. Each one contains something to do with her life or art.
ReplyDeleteStill haven't seen the Frida book, and really need to find the Microbe one. I know that I'll like it. Maybe with the Frida book they just wanted to give a brief introduction? Interesting that there is so little information. Thanks for your opinion on it, Michele.
ReplyDeleteI love Nicola Davies' new title. I learned a lot as well. I am looking forward to finding Viva Frida. I have seen mixed reviews and am growing quite curious. The cover looks incredible.
ReplyDeleteMy daughter enjoyed Tiny Creatures. :) Fit in well with one of our Cosmos viewing night. :)
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