The days in The Book Nook are dwindling, as our library nears end-of-year inventory time. I'm finishing up the year with some books from our Texas 2x2 list, a wonderful resource geared for the 2-year-old through second grade children. We are currently reading Some Bugs by Angela DeTerlizzi, illustrated by Brendan Wenzel, and Extraordinary Jane by Hannah E. Harrison.
Some Bugs is perfect for this time of year in Texas, because bugs are EVERYWHERE at the moment. The text is simple, mainly action verbs describing what bugs do--"some bugs glide, some bugs hide"--and the oversized book is chock full of beautifully illustrated two-page spreads of backyard bugs. The last pages are pictures of every bug shown with their proper names. My students found at least three or four they were familiar with, and learned much more!
Extraordinary Jane is also a simple story with pictures worthy of poring over. We started reading the cover--what is the setting, and who do we think Jane is? The circus was the correct answer to the first question, but most of us missed the second, thinking the elephant was the main character. Jane happens to be the small dog on the cover, born into a circus family but lacking the talents of her parents and siblings. The ringmaster tries to make a circus act with Jane...but her talents lie in other areas. This is a sweet story about the gifts we possess just by being ourselves.It's Monday! What are you reading this week?
I don't know Extraordinary Jane. Sounds like a great message.
ReplyDeleteIt is a sweet book. We spent time "reading" the pictures to catch the message.
DeleteBugs sounds like a delightful book. You are right about Extraordinary Jane. It is fun, but filled with love.
ReplyDeleteSome Bugs is fun, makes me wish it had been out when my children were little; I see it as a great lap book. I'm glad you love Extraordinary Jane, too!
DeleteWe don't have as many bugs, but Some Bugs sounds very cute for younger kids. Thanks, Chris.
ReplyDeleteIt's a great book to get kids exploring their own backyards. You're welcome, Linda!
DeleteExtraordinary Jane made me weep when I got to the ending. I think it was a message I needed to hear at that very moment in my life. "You are enough" is certainly something many of us need to hear.
ReplyDeleteI was surprised how many students really understood that message; made my heart full to hear them say it in their own words.
DeleteI haven't read either of these, but Jane has been on my TBR list for a while--I need to move it up!
ReplyDeleteHappy reading this week :)
Thanks, Kellee! It's a quick read, but more than worth the time. :-)
DeleteThese both look fun. I definitely have to get the bug one.
ReplyDeleteI have been using the Texas 2x2 list to supplement my read-alouds in the library, and have never been disappointed by the selections--Some Bugs included!
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