READ ALOUD RECOMMENDATIONS
Bibliographic Information Author: William Steig Illustrator: William Steig Title: Sylvester and the Magic Pebble Publication Date: 1969 Publisher: Aladdin Paperbacks Summary On a rainy day, Syvester finds a magic pebble that can make wishes come true. But when a lion frightens him on his way hom, Sylvestger makes a wish that brings unexpected wishes. This heartfelt story describes the struggles one young donkey endures to eventually reunite with his loving family. Recommendations for Parents This is a heartfelt story that teaches the importance of familly. This magical tale will capture the heart of your young one and help them connect with their emotions. The powerful illustrations convey the distress and feelings each character is experiencing. Your child will fall in love with Sylvester and they will find themselves hoping desperately that he will one day return to his family. Recommendations for Teachers Teachers, this book will make your students both laugh and cry outloud! This is such a spectacular story that helps children reflect on the persepctives of others and how to relate to how others are feeling. This book supports all children's learning through vivid imagery and fantastic illustrations. This book is wonderful for introducing multiple animals and different seasons. All children will love and enjoy reading this whimsical tale. Personal Note I love this book because of how deeply the emotions are displayed throughout the tale. Sylvester is such a wonderful character who makes the mistake of making a bad wish. This book displays how so many of us make mistakes that we forever wish we could take back. It is a great book that helps students understand the consequences of mistakes, but how in the end, love and family is what is most important.
Bibliographic Information Author: Lynn Reiser Illustrator: N/A Title: Margaret and Margarita Publiation Date: 1993 Publisher: South China Printing Company Summary Margaret and Margarita are two little girls who speak different languages. They regretfully join their mothers at the park one day, and despite what their parents believe, discover that they can be friends even though they do not speak the same language. Recommendations for Parents This is such an enduring story that teaches parents that even though children may be different, they can still be friends. This book, with its simple illustrations, help bridge the gap and belief that children with different backgrounds cannot get along. Recommendations for Teachers This book is a beginning piece that helps bridge the gap between two languages for English language learners. This will help facilitate a sense of belonging and community among the Spanish speaking population in your classroom. This is a great book that "serves as a vehicle for language lessons." This book also has great, rich vocabulary and supportive illustrations. Personal Note I loved this story because it facilitates community for English language learners in a diverse classroom. This book proves that kids do have capabilities of communication despite a language barrier. This book has great imagination with a kick of reality!