Suggested Read-Alouds...
	The Lorax Written and Illustrated by: Dr. Seuss Copywrite 1977 Publisher: Random House Inc.	Summary: The old Once-ler shares a story to a young boy of how the land used to flourish with trees, birds, fish and bears.  One day the Once-ler found this beautiful land and dreamed of a great business that he could establish by turning the trees into Sneeds, "which are things that everyone needs."  As his business did grow, he chopped down more trees.  The animals had to move away because of the dirty air and water and lack of trees caused by the factories.  The Lorax, a creature who represents the trees, birds, bears, and fish tried to stop the Once-ler but the Once-ler did not listen until one day that he chopped down the last tree...
		Recommendations for Parents: This story has bright color illustrations that mirror the mood of the story and help your child to display emotions of happiness, frustration, and even anger.  From the bright colorful trees, sky and grass to the dark, cold dirty factory soot and sewage, the pictures help bring the story to life by appealing to the reader's feelings.
		Recommendations for other Teachers: Many educational activities can be applied in the classroom after reading the book together.  Students can come up with creative sequels to the story.  The class can raise money to plant a tree in the community or in the school yard.  The book can kick start a discussion on the importance of environmental conservation and caring for our natural wildlife and plant life.
		Personal Note:  I really love this book because it promotes kids' awareness and concern about the environment and other natural habitats.  The creativity and wit of Dr. Seuss with his nonsensical words and imaginary characters provide a wonderful setting for discussing such a real world dilemma.
	Goin' Someplace Special Written by: Patricia C. McKissack Illustrated by: Jerry Pinkney Copywrite: 2001 Publisher: Simon & Schuster	Summary: Set in the Jim Crow segregated South, 'Tricia Ann begs her grandma to let her travel to "someplace special" on her own.  All by herself she takes the bus, walks downtown and is faced with discrimnation and segregation.  With support along the way and remembering her grandmother's words, she is able to to hold her head up high.  Finally she arrives at her "someplace special" and you will have to read this book to find out!
		Recommendations for Parents: This book has a great message about courage, standing up for one's self and doing what is right.  Talk with your child about the still very prevalent issues of segregation, but more importantly respecting all people for their individual abilities and strengths.
		Recommendations for other Teachers:  The water color illustrations in this book are breath taking.  The book also is writing with a slight southern accent.  Both the illustrations and the dialogue add to the richness of the story and help to emphasize and explain the setting.  This is a great beginning of the year read for all grade levels to discuss the importance of reading as a means towards success in life.  This book can also be a part of American history or discussing race relations in the U.S.
		Personal Note: I got the opportunity to hear the author speak and she was very motivational and inspiring.  A great book for any class library!