Picture Books?

I had the great fortune to attend a workshop this week, in which many, many new books were presented. The presenter, Dr. Peggy Sharp, talks of books published in 2010. She tells about books she likes the most and provides a long list of books she likes, organized in many different categories. She also recommends activities for quite a few books. Dr. Sharp is highly regarded and has taught grade school, been a school librarian, and a college professor.

I have attended many of these workshops through the years. They help me to keep our collections up-to-date. This time I was reminded of some things I have thought about picture books for years. When I started my job in the district, I was impressed by the picture books. They were better than they had been years before and were intended, more and more, for older children. Picture books are certainly not just for young children and early readers. It is important that today's parents and teachers realize this. Do not discourage children from reading picture books. They self-promote way too early as it is. Fortunately, in fourth or fifth grade, they tend to figure this out and discover the many wonderful picture books available to them.

A Great Resource!

The students at Prairieview will have an opportunity to use World Book Online. This site is provided by the district for all of our students. They are invited to use it at school and at home within the district. The site offers many features including four versions of the encyclopedia. These include World Book Kids, World Book Student, World Book Advanced, and Enciclopedia Estudiantil Hallazgos (for those who can read Spanish). This is an age-appropriate, reliable resource and we are glad to have it.

November Books

Our monthy book displays have changed.

At Elizabeth Ide, we are showing our Thanksgiving books. The requests have already begun, so this is a good idea. We have quite a variety.

At Prairieview, we are displaying our graphic novels. Some are reminiscent of comic books. Others display classics in a new format. And, some are new books, written with this attractive format. It is a blessing for reluctant readers.