Aspiring Librarian

Children's Literature Summaries

2009-11-21T22:48:00.000-08:00

I am in my third semester of Grad School for Library Services at UHCL and am currently taking Children's Literature. This class has been by far my favorite since I am currently teaching 2nd grade Language Arts and I love to read! One of my assignments is to read 40 books and write a short summary of the books...not too hard when you are constantly reading as part of your job! Here you will find the summaries, broken up by award winners or genres. I hope you come across something you will enjoy bringing into your classroom, library, or home. Some of my favorites were Becoming Naomi Leon, The Perfect Nest, Number the Stars, The Stray Dog, The City of Ember, Old Bear, One Potato Two Potato, Olive's Ocean and The Wall.

Caldecott Medal Winners and Honorees

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Keats, E. (1962). The snowy day. New York: Viking.

Peter wakes and it is a snowy day. He bundles up and heads out for a day of trekking, snow angels, and snowball fights. He decides to take a snowball home, bud sadly finds that his snowball has melted in the snow. He is disappointed when the snow outside begins to melt, but is delighted when he awakes the next morning to another snowy day.

The illustrations are done with bold colors, simple shapes and varied textures. The book is a hallmark because it is one of the first picture books in America to feature an African American hero.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: Caldecott Medal

Simont, M. (2001) The stray dog. New York: HarperCollins

A family is setting out to go out of the city for a picinic. During their picnic a friendly, frisky dog joins them.. The boy and girl play with the dog all day and even name him Willy. They want to take Willy home, but the mom reasons that he must have an owner. Throughout the week the whole family thinks of the playful dog. On Saturday the family goes back to the park, and are watchful of the dog. When they finally see Willy, he is being chased by the dogcatcher. The boy and girl ingeniously convince the dogcatcher that Willy belongs to them, and they take him home. The illustrations wistfully capture the emotions and longing the family has for the dog.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: Caldecott Honor, ALA Notable

Swanson, S. (2008). The house in the night. (B. Krommes Illus.) New York: Houghton

Mifflin Company.

This cumulative poem, put into picture book format, is a modern day classic that has the rhythm of a lullaby. The poem tells the story of a loving home preparing for bedtime. The black and gold illustrations done in scratchboard and watercolor reflect the simplistic calmness of the poem.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: Caldecott Medal, ALA Notable

Newbery Award Winners and Honorees

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Choldenko, J. (2004) Al capone does my shirts. New York: G.P. Putman’s Sons.

It is 1935 and Moose Flanagan has to move to the island of Alcatraz, which houses the infamous criminal Al Capone, because his father has gotten a job there. The reason why Moose’s family has moved is so that Moose’s sister can go to a school for children with special needs. She has a condition that is now known as Autism. While living on Alcatraz Moose makes friends and meets Piper, the sassy daughter of the warden. Piper is full of schemes, and somehow Moose finds himself in the middle of those schemes. The move is hard on Moose, but he discovers the meaning of sacrificing for the ones he loves.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Suggested Age of Grade Level: 5-8

Awards: Newbery Honor, ALA Notable

Di Camillo. K. (2000), Because of winn-dixie. New York: Scholastic.

India Opal Buloni and her preacher father have just moved to a new town. While at the grocery store, Opal befriends a dog that had been running ramped in the store. She names the dog Winn Dixie, and so begins the adventures, love and friendship the two share. Winn Dixie is the catapult for bringing Opal to meet new people. Everyone she meets has had their share of sorrow, and relieve Opal’s lonliness. Opal is also dealing with the hurt of being abandoned by her mother, and having a father that is out of touch with her. One night, when Winn Dixie is lost, and Opal is in danger of losing him, Opal and her father come to terms with their mutual grief and abandonment.

Genre: realistic fiction

Suggested Grade Level(s): 3-6

Awards: Newbery Honor, ALA Notable

Lowry, L. (1989) Number the stars. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company.

It is 1943 in Copenhagen, Denmark during the Nazi occupation. The Nazis are beginning to “relocate” all the Jews in Denmark. Annamarie fears for her best friend Ellen Rosen and her family, who are Jews. Annamarie’s family helps smuggle the Rosen’s out of the country and into Sweden, and are nearly caught. When a disasterous turn takes place, it is up to Annamarie to carry out the planned escape. Annamarie finds out what courage truly means, and how herself and the people around her the epitome of bravery.

Genre: Historical fiction

Suggested Grade Level(s): 5-8

Awards: Newbery Award, ALA Notable

Coretta Scott King Award Winners and Honorees

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Giovanni, N. (2005). Rosa. (B. Collier Illus.) New York: Henry Holt and Company.

This is a biographical picture book that gives the reader insight into the historical event of Rosa Park’s refusal to give up her seat on the bus in 1955. The story depicts Parks as a peaceful, dignified woman who helped change the face of American history. The book also follows the civil right marches and the ultimate ruling of desegregation. The paintings in the book illustrate the darkness of the times, and shows Parks as an illuminating figure.

Genre: biography picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): 3-6

Awards: Coretta Scott King Award

Nelson, K. (2008). We are the ship: the story of negro baseball. New York: Hyperion

Told in narration, this book chronicles the history of the Negro Baseball Leagues from the 1920’s to 1940’s. The book tells in heart wrenching detail the discrimination, unfairness, and poor conditions the players endured for the love of the game. The book is accompanied with brilliant, true to life oil paintings by the author.

Genre: information

Suggested Grade Level(s): 3-6

Awards: Coretta Scott King Medal Award, ALA Notable, Sibert Medal Award

Pura Belpre Award Winners and Honorees

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Brown, M. (2004). My name is Celia: the life of celia cruz. (R. Lopez Illus.) Flagstaff:

Luna Rising.

This biographical bilingual picture book chronicles the life of Salsa singer Celia Cruz. The book begins with Cruz’s childhood in Havana, Cuba, follows her as she flees Cuba and enters the US, and describes how her love of music and Cuba made her an international Salsa superstar. The vibrant pictures bring the colorful and passionate Celia Cruz to life.

Genre: biography picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: Pura Belpre Honor

Gonzalez, L. (2008) The storyteller’s candle. (L. Delacre Illus.) San Francisco:

Children’s Book Press

Set in the era of the Great Depression, Hildamar and her family are missing their warm homeland Puerto Rico, during the Christmas season. One day Hildamar wonders what is inside the tall building with the big windows. Her aunt is quick to tell her that it is the library and that she is not welcomed there. Soon, Hildamar meets Pura Belpre, a Puerto Rican librarian. Belpre welcomes all the children to the library, and the people of the barrio help make a festive holiday celebration. This story is based on the real life Pura Belpre, an esteemed librarian, storyteller, and author.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: Pura Belpre Honor

Morales, Y. (2003). Just a minute: a trickster tale and counting book. San Francisco: Chronicle Books.

In this Mexican influenced tale, Grandma Beetle wakes one morning to finds Senor Calavera, death personified, knocking on her door. Before Grandma Beetle can go with Senor Calavera, she has preparations for a birthday party to make. As Grandma Beetle makes her preparations, the story counts in both Spanish and English the number of items that Grandma Beetle must prepare. A fun read aloud, children will enjoy reading how the trickster ends up being tricked. The pictures are vibrant and true to the colors of Mexican living.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: Pura Belpre Award, ALA Notable

Munoz Ryan, P. (2000) Esperanza rising. New York: Scholastic.

On the eve of her thirteenth birthday Esperanza’s father, a wealthy landowner in Mexico, is killed by bandits. Esperanza and her mother, having lost everything, have to flee to America. They move to California and live in a camp for farm workers. Set in 1924, the story tells the struggle of the early farm workers in California and how Esperanza’s life is forever changed, as she learns the true meaning of hard work, family, and friends.

Genre: historical fiction

Suggested Grade Level(s): 5-8

Awards: Pura Belpre Award, ALA Notable

Informational Books

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Bartoletti, S. (2005). Hitler youth: growing up in hitler’s shadow. New York: Scholastic.

This information book recounts the horror and atrocities of World War II through the eyes of the youth that experienced it. The book follows the war through the experiences of members of the Hitler Youth, those that resisted the Nazis and those that were targeted by the Nazis. The book has authentic photos and includes author’s note, timeline, and an epilogue of those that were featured in the book.

Genre: information

Suggested Grade Level(s): 5-8

Awards: Newbery Honor, Sibert Honor

Kerley, B. ( 2004). Walt whitman: words for America. (B. Selznick Illus.) New York:

Scholastic.

This biographical picture book tells the story of American poet Walt Whitman. The story begins with twelve-year-old Whitman being a printer’s apprentice and having a love for words. The story gives insight into Whitman’s love for America and the beginning of his career as a poet. The reader experiences the Civil War in Whitman’s eyes and is witness to the contributions Whitman made for his country during the Civil War. The beautiful paintings add to the beauty of Whitman’s story and poems. Included is a detailed author’s note and poems.

Genre: information

Suggested Grade Level(s): 3-6

Awards: ALA Notable

Murphy, J. (2003). An American plague: the true and terrifying story of the yellow fever

epidemic of 1793. New York: Clarion.

This book chronicles the outbreak of the Yellow Fever Epidemic in Philadelphia in 1793. Told in descriptive narrative, the author takes the reader through the panic the people faced, the conditions of the city, the attempt the government made to control the epidemic, beliefs and practices the doctors used to treat the disease, and the heroes that helped the city recover from the plague.

Genre: Information

Suggested Grade Level(s): 5-8

Awards: Newbery Honor

Sis, Peter, (2007). The wall: growing up behind the iron curtain. New York: Farrar,

Straus and Girooux.

This book gives the history of the Communist Party’s control over Czechoslovakia and the impact it had on its people. As the author describes the history, he also shares his own experiences, dreams, and fears growing up at this time in Czechoslovakia. The author also includes entries from his childhood journal. Through intricate drawings and tidbits of information, the reader can easily understand the significance of the Iron

Curtain in world history.

Genre: autobiography picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): 3-6

Awards: Sibert medal, Caldecott Honor, ALA Notable

ALA Children's Notable Books

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Becker, B. (2008) A visitor for bear. Cambridge: Candlewick Press.

Bear is very content with living a solitary life and is not keen on having visitors. One day a Mouse is insistent on visiting with the Bear, and bothers Bear until he reluctantly allows Mouse to stay for a visit. Bear discovers the delight of having company, and is sadden when Mouse is ready to go. Bear discovers that having a visitor is pleasant, and now considers Mouse a friend. The pastel water color illustrations are light and winsome.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: ALA Notable

Dorros,A. (2008) Papá and me. (R. Gutierrez, Illus.). New York: Harper Collins.

This story follows a young boy and his father as they spend the day together in the city from morning to dusk. As the boy tells about his day with his father, he shares pieces of conversations that the two have, which is in Spanish. Easily understandable by non- Spanish speakers, the book shares the special bond of father and son. The illustrations are vivid, bright, and illustrate the joy and love the father and son share.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Age of Grade Level: K-3

Awards: Pura Belpre Honor, ALA Notable

Henkes, K. (2008). Old bear. New York: Greenwillow Books.

As Old Bear snoozes during his winter hibernation, he dreams of being a young cub, exploring the forest through the four seasons. When Old Bear wakes up, he is delighted to find that spring has arrived. The gorgeous watercolor paintings of this simplistic story beautifully reflect the colors of each season.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: ALA Notable

Williamson, M. Are you ready to play outside? New York: Hyperion Books for Children.

This book is a part of the Elephant and Piggie Book series. Elephant and Piggie are best friends, and are looking forward to playing outside, until it begins to rain, and Piggie is devastated. Piggy discovers he loves the rain, and is equally upset when it stops raining…until Elephant saves the day. This simple story illustrates the true meaning of friendship for emergent readers. The illustrations are playful, witty, and funny.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: ALA Notable, Geisel Award

Notable Recording and Video

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Audiorecording

McMullun, K et al. (2008). I'm dirty. (audiorecording). Weston Woods.

Steve Busceni narrates this story and brings the backhoe to life as he goes about performing his job and getting dirty along the way. The story is accompanied by fast paced music that accentuates the frolic of the story.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: ALA Notable

Videorecording

Manzano, S. (2007). A box full of kittens. (videotape). Nutmeg Media.

Ruthie wants so badly to be a super hero. Her time to shine comes when she is asked to help her aunt who will be delivering a baby soon. On an errand, Ruthie is distracted by a box of kittens. Unbeknownst to Ruthie, her aunt goes into labor while Ruthie is gone. The video recording is narrated by the author, who emphasizes the Latin flavor of the story. The animated illustrations and sound effects add interest to the delightful story.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: ALA Notable

Texas Bluebonnet Award Winners

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DeFelice, C. (2006) One potato, two potato. (A. U’Ren Illus) New York: Farrar, Straus,

Giroux.

This retelling of a Chinese folktale tells the story of the O’Gradys, a poor, elderly couple who only have one of the bare essentials to share. Even though they have little they are content with life, but their one true wish is to have a friend. When digging for potatoes, Mr. O’Grady finds a magical pot that doubles everything that they put in. They double hairpins, chairs, potatoes, candles and gold coins. When Mrs. O’Grady accidentally falls in, she is also doubled! Mr; O’Grady falls in as well, and the O’Grady’s get what they have always wanted, friends. The two O’Grady couples decide to bury the magical put so that someone else might have their good fortune. The sketchy illustrations and simple color scheme uniquely capture the characterization of the O’Gradys and the theme of the story.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: Bluebonnet Award

Hayes, J. (2004) Ghost fever. El Paso: Cinco Puentos Press.

In a small town in Arizona there is a haunted house that nobody will live in, until Frank Padilla moves into town with his two daughters. Frank does not heed the townspeople’s warnings and moves into the haunted house. Frank’s daughter Elena is haunted by the ghost, and with her grandmother’s advice helps the ghost and puts it to rest.

Genre: Fiction

Suggested Grade Level(s): 5-8

Awards: Bluebonnet Award

Texas 2x2 Reading List

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Friend, K. (2007). The perfect nest. (J. Manders Illus.) Cambridge: Candlewick Press.

The Perfect Nest is an endearing story about a cat, Jack, who builds the perfect nest in the hopes of luring a chicken so that he can collect an egg to make an omelet. Through his endeavors Jack ends up with a baby chick, duck, and goose to care for. The illustrations, done in gauche, are cartoonish, vibrant, and supportive of the text.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: none

Katz,S. (2007). Oh theodore: guinea pig poems. (S. Schuett, Illus.). New York: Clarion.

Oh, Theodore! Is a collection of poems that tells the story of a boy and his pet Guinea Pig. The poems illustrate to the reader the guinea pig’s personality, how the boy cares for the guinea pig, and the joys and heartaches that come along with loving and caring for a pet. The simplicity of the poems make them easy to read and understand for young readers. The illustrations, done in acrylic paint and acrylic gouache, are bright and cheerful.

Genre: poetry

Suggested Grade Level(s):K-3

Awards: none

IRA Children's Choices

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Himmelman, J. (2008). Katie loves the kittens. Orlando: Holt.

Katie the family dog is overwhelmed with excitement when kittens join the family. She is in love with the kittens, and doesn’t understand how her eager howls and enthusiasm frighten the kittens. She desperately tries to control her howling and boundfulness, but she just can’t help herself. Exhausted with her efforts of self-control, she fall asleep, delighted to find the kittens snuggled with her when she awakens. The simple sketches of illustrations capture the emotions of both dog and kittens.

Genre: picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: none

Schaefer, L. (2007) Frankie stein. (K. Atteberry Illus.) Terrytown: Marshall Cavendish

Children.

The monster family the Steins can’t understand why their son Frankie was not born a monster. Throughout the story the Steins try to make their son scary looking like the rest of the family. When Frankie grows up, he shows his family the scariest way to be scary, which is to be a normal boy. This comical twist on the classic character Frankenstein is

a sure pleaser for children who love monster stories. The detailed, comical, and dark illustrations set the mood for the story.

Genre: fiction picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: IRA Children’s Choice

Challenged Books

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Henkes, K. (2003). Olive’s ocean. New York: Greenwillow Books.

Twelve-year-old Martha Boyle is preparing for her annual summer vacation to her grandmother’s house in Cape Cod when she receives an unexpected visitor. The visitor is the mother of one of Martha’s classmates Olive, who was an outcast at school, who has recently died in a fatal accident. Through one of Olive’s diary page, Martha discovers that one of Olive’s wishes in life was to become friends with her, and that the girls had similar dreams and likes. Throughout Martha’s vacation, she is haunted by Olive’s words as she experiences first love, heartache, family worries, and self-discovery.

Genre: Chapter Book: Realistic Fiction

Suggested Grade Level(s): Grades 5-8

Awards: 2004 Newbery Medal Honor

Schwartz, A. (1981). Scary stories to tell in the dark. (S. Gammell Illus.) New York:

HarperCollins Publishers.

This book is a collection of scary stories that is intended to entertain and intended for readers to carry on the tradition of story telling. The book is divided into types of stories: “jump stories,” ghost stories, stories about different creatures, recent scary stories, and funny scary stories. The drawings by Stephen Gammell add to the eeriness and grotesqueness of the stories.

Genre: Chapter Book: Fiction

Suggested Grade Level(s): Grades 5-8

Awards: none

Folk Tales and Fairy Tales

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Hyman, T. (1983). Little red riding hood. New York: Holiday House.

This is a retelling of the Brothers Grimm fairytale. Little Red Riding Hood is headed for her grandmother’s house in the woods. While on her journey she is encountered by the sly wolf. The wolf eats the grandmother, impersonates the grandmother, and then eats Little Red Riding Hood. Luckily a woodsman saves Little Red Riding Hood, and Little Red learns the lessons of keeping promises and staying away from strangers. The illustrations are classic and true to fairy tale style.

Genre: Folktale

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: Caldecott Honor

Young, Ed. (1989). Lon Po Po. New York: Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers.

Lon Po Po is the Chinese folktale rendition of Little Red Riding Hood. When Shang, Tao, and Paotze are left alone, the wolf tricks them into believing that he is their “Po Po,” or grandmother. The children believe him, but find a way to escape from the wolf. The dark illustrations reflect the sinister, climatic, and suspenseful tale.

Genre: Folklore

Suggested Grade Level(s): 2-6

Awards: Caldecott Medal

Poetry

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Esbensen, B. (2003). Swing around the sun. (C. Cheng et al. Illus.) Minneapolis:

Carolrhoda Books.

This book is a collection of poems that are inspired by the four seasons of the year. This collection was first published in 1965, and was published again in 2003 with 5 poems reflecting each season of the year. The new edition features illustrations from four different artists: Cheng-Khee Chee for spring, Janice Lee Porter for summer, Mary GrandPre for fall, and Stephen Gammell for winter. The illustrations capture the beauty and uniqueness of each season.

Genre: Poetry

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: NCTE award winning poet

Greenfield, E. (1972). Honey, I love and other love poems. (D and L. Dillon Illus.).

New York: HarperCollins Publishers.

This small collection of narrative poems explore the everyday pleasures of a child. The poems reflect the emotions and situations that all children can relate to: family, friendship, and self-reflection. The sketches in the book features African American children and reflect the theme and mood of each individual poem.

Genre: poetry

Suggested Grade Level(s): 3-6

Awards: none

Historical Fiction

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Curtis. C. (2007). Elijah of Buxton. New York: Scholastic Press

Elijah is an eleven-year-old boy who was the first person to be born free in his settlement in Canada. This book follows Elijah as he explores his world, embarks on adventures, and learns life lessons. When a friend gets in trouble and asks Elijah to travel to America, he discovers the horror of slavery. Elijah learns the lesson of trust and discovers how precious freedom is.

Genre: Chapter Book: Historical Fiction

Suggested Grade Level(s): Grades 3-6

Awards: Newbery Medal Honor, King Medal Award, O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction

MacLachlan, P. (1985). Sarah, Plain and Tall. New York: Scholastic Inc.

Anna and Caleb are children that live in the plains of America during the pioneer days. The children are motherless, and when Papa writes an advertisement to search for a wife, Sarah Wheaton of Maine replies. Anna and Caleb are both apprehensive and eager about the prospects of having Sarah as a mother. They begin corresponding with Sarah, and decide that Sarah is to visit the home to see how it works out for them. Sarah teaches the children about life living near the sea, and the children teach Sarah about living on a farm. As the characters get to know one another, they all become very fond of each other. When Caleb, Anna and Papa are faced with the prospect of Sarah leaving, they realize how much they care for her, and she marries Papa after all.

Genre: historical fiction

Suggested Grade Level(s): 3-6

Awards: Newbery Honor, ALA Notable

Fantasy and Science Fiction

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Duprau, J. (2003) City of Ember. (2003) New York: Random House.

Lina and Doon live in the 241 year-old city of Ember, a city that was built underground to ensure the safety of the human race. The city is running out of energy, food and supplies, and the two friends are beginning to realize the perilous state of the city. One day Lina comes across a paper that has directions on how to exit the city. When the two friends discover that the mayor is hording supplies, they use the exit directions to escape from being arrested by the mayor. The two discover the outside world and are able to send a note down into Ember. The citizens of Ember are able to escape the collapsing city.

Genre: Science Fiction

Suggested Grade Level(s): 5-8

Awards: ALA Notable 2004

Henkes, K. (1990) Julius the baby of the world. New York: Greenwillow Books.

The little mouse Lilly from Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse is back and is expecting a baby brother. At first she is in love with the idea of having a baby around, but when the baby, Julius, arrives she cannot understand what all the fuss is about. She doesn’t think he is as adorable as her parents do, and is annoyed with all the attention Julius gets. It takes a snooty cousin snubbing her nose at Julius to make Lilly appreciate her baby brother. Henkes is also the illustrator of this delightful tale of sibling love and rivalry.

Genre: fiction picture book (fantasy)

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: none

Hispanic Awards- Thomas Rivera Award

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Mora, P. (2002). A library for juana. (B. Vidal Illus.) New York: Alfred A. Knopf.

This biographical picture book tells the story of one of Mexico’s favorite authors Sister Juana Ines de la Cruz. In seventeenth century Mexico, Juana Ines was a little girl full of curiosity. Unable to study in the university, she became a nun and spent her life praying, reading, writing, and collecting books. The detailed and soft illustrations reflect Juana Ines’ love for books and knowledge.

Genre: biography picture book

Suggested Grade Level(s): K-3

Awards: Rivera Award

Munoz Ryan, P. (2004). Becoming Naomi Leon. New York: Scholastic.

Eleven year old Naomi Soledad Leon Outlaw and her brother Owen were abandoned seven years ago and were left to be cared for by their great grandmother Mary. Naomi does not know her mother and father, and when her mother shows up after seven years, Naomi’s life is turned upside down. When Naomi’s mother plans to take Naomi away to Las Vegas, Naomi, Owen, and Marie take off to Mexico in search of Naomi’s father. In Mexico Naomi experiences self-discovery, self-love, and finally finds a father that has always loved her.

Genre: realistic fiction

Suggested Grade Level(s): 5-8

Awards: Rivera Award

Thing 23 YAY!

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Reflection of 23 Things

I am so glad I had the opportunity to work and play through Library2Play. I feel like I have learned so much about WEb 2.0 and some of the wonderful applications and programs it has to offer.

What were your favorite discoveries or exercises on this learning journey?

My favorite discoveries where Librarything.com and Photostory. I planned with my teammates yesterday and everyone agreed to have our students start a Librarything profile. I can't wait!

I look forward to using Photostory with my class as well. I also liked delicious.com. I like how I can collect and view my favorite sites from where ever.

How has this program assisted or affected your lifelong learning goals?

I feel like I have really grown as a learner. I feel more confident now knowing so much more about web 2.0 applications. I feel like I am now better able to address the use of technology in my classroom.

Were there any take-a-ways or unexpected outcomes from this program that surprised you?

I was surprised at how much time Iwillingly put into the program. I would find myself working on the Things, and hours passing by.

If we offered another discovery program like this in the future, would you choose to participate?

I wouldn't participate this year, I would wait till next summer. I feel like I have a head full of new knowledge!

How would you describe your learning experience in ONE WORD or in ONE SENTENCE, so we could use your words to promote 23 Things learning activitities?

I have a new level of knowledge of web 2.0 that I know well make me a better teacher!

Thing 22

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Nings
I found nings really interesting. Nings are social networking sites for professionals to network and share ideas. I joined the Texas Librarian Group and the Primary Teachers Network group. I also started a 2nd grade teacher group in the Primary Teachers Network site. Once the group is approved I will post the link to the group. Hopefully all my 2nd grade teacher friends will join! I really look forward to networking with people around the country and sharing ideas about learning and teaching.

Thing 21

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Podcasts and Vidcasts
This "thing" is my favorite "thing" so far... With Librarything.com running a close second. Dowloading and using Photostory was so incredibly easy. I can't wait to use it in my classroom! I like Photostory because you don't need a video camera to use it, and with all the pictures available online, one is sure to find a photo to go with their recording. I had my daughter write a review of one of her favorite books and recorded her. This is one of the many ways I would use Photostory in the classroom and library.

Thing 20

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Youtube and Teachertube

Youtube is one of my family's favorite websites. We love to search funny animal, baby, and wedding movies. We often view our favorite songs and videos. Lately we have been watching videos of Michael Jackson singing classics like ABC and Rockin' Robin. I don't know if I will be using Youtube as a teacher...it seems like alot of time and trouble to get to a video that is blocked.

I love having Teachertube as an alternative to Youtube. As I searched through Teachertube I found many movies featuring students. This website offers the perfect place for teachers and students to share their work. I searched for booktalks and didn't come up with much. I searched Guided Reading and found a very informative video about Guided Reading. Sharing videos is a great way for librarians to pass along information and help teachers. Enjoy.

Thing 19

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Web 2.0 Awards List

http://www.docstoc.com/ Is a great place to go to for ideas on teaching and librarianship I found a great list of ideas for collaboration at this document http://www.docstoc.com/docs/2538702/How-to-Build-Collaboration-With-Teachers
http://tweetscan.com/ This is a really cool site, Like Technorati.com searches blogs, this site searches tweets and mini-blogs.
http://www.cocktailbuilder.com/ I looked at this site just for fun :)... not because I like to drink adult beverages! Here is a recipe for one of my faves... Mojitos http://www.cocktailbuilder.com/#.

Thing 18

2009-08-04T15:59:00.000-07:00

Online Productivity Tools

I am so impressed with all the tools that are available from google. I think google docs makes it easy to share documents on blogs. I like how you can link people to your work from a website address; it takes out the step of having to PDF your documents. I could not figure out how to email the document that I created. Here is the link to the document...

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AXRJmNyEYF0zZGc1aDR6amhfMGY3ajQ3dGZn&hl=en

Thing 17

2009-08-04T15:39:00.000-07:00

Rollyo

I had a hard time distinguishing the difference between Rollyo and Delicious.com... Do they ultimately have the same purpose? I searched 2nd grade language arts and Reader's and Writer's Workshop. Both searches had useful hits. I created a Rollyo for 2nd Grade Language Arts. I probably will not keep using Rollyo and stick with Delicious.com. When the site is not running so slow I will add my Rollyo search page.

Thing 16

2009-08-03T19:42:00.000-07:00

Wikis

I never really knew the true intention of use for wikispaces. Now I know it's for organizing, coordinating, and sharing a group's information. I think it would be an awesome idea for my second grade Language Arts team to plan for lessons on a Wiki, especially since we are always short on time. I loved Library2play's idea about students keeping notes on a Wiki... I'm thinking of doing something on Wiki with my students for Reader's WKSP. Something like keeping anchor charts on Wikis and allowing students to add on what they feel is important.

Thing 15

2009-08-02T21:49:00.000-07:00

Library 2.0

The last time I was in college before this past spring was 1999. When I went back to school to start working on my Masters degree I was astonished at how vast the use of computer technology in universities had changed... all thanks to web 2.0. I can now take complete courses online, hold conversations with fellow classmates across town, and do all my research... without ever leaving my house.

Library 2.0 means to bring this same type of ease and convenience of learning, networking, and access of information to its patrons. Its all about meeting the needs of the patrons in their space.

What does this mean for elementary libraries? Well, what are the needs of elementary students?

They too need ease and convenience, networking, and access of information. Can they access databases from home? Is there somewhere they can go to online to ask questions about homework? Can they collaborate with other students outside of school? Can they access all the information they have at school at home?

When I read about the future of libraries, I often think of the library's past, and how things come in full circle. I think that Ranganathan's laws particularly go well with Library 2.0:the library is always growing and changing with the times, the library saves the user time (especially in todays world), the reader his book (whether on a Kindle, Ipod, CD or old school),

every book its reader, (freedom to access of all information, print and digital), and books (information) is for use.

Why have a library surrounded by all this marvelous new technology and not use it and make the best of it for our patrons?

Thing 14

2009-08-02T17:14:00.000-07:00

I just finished playing with http://www.technorati.com. I found it really easy to use, and found that I like this blog search tool alot more than the other blog search tools we looked at in Thing 9. I searched 2nd grade. elementary librarian and Reader's Workshop and found some really informative blogs such as http://www.theliteracyblock.com/ and http://ianmclean.edublogs.org/. I like having the tag option in the case that I may be searching for something in particular, such as a book review. I think that using tags saves a user time because it narrows down a search. What were some of your favorite tags or finds on technorati?

Thing 13

2009-08-02T16:49:00.000-07:00

Delicious.com is a handy site for professionals and students. I'd like to share my bookmarks with everyone, and look forward to viewing others' bookmarks on Delicious.com I started of with some useful sites for my teaching career and for my librarianship studies. I know that I will soon be adding sites as I start using them for other classes and as the new school year starts. This site offers another way for professionals to collaborate and share ideas. I look forward to continuing the use of this site.

Thing 12

2009-07-31T16:38:00.001-07:00

Wow...I didn't realize I was a lurker...that sounds so creepy. No wonder I started getting comments...you guys reached Thing 12! The blogs I read about commenting were really interesting, and I really did come away with them with some new knowledge. For one, to be a commenter, especially when a post hits close to home. Two, respond to your commenters, it's gracious. Three, share what you know, someone out there might learn from it.

Thing 11

2009-07-30T18:39:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Librarything! I'm a person that does not hold on to books. I share a passion for reading with my close friend Lisa and cousin Carrie, so we are constantly swapping books. When books are left over I take them to the discount bookstore. Since I inhale books, I like Librarything to keep track of what I have read. I'm going to start logging in my books from now on, and try to put in more of what I have read. I really like the reccommendations that the site offers. It provides a good list of "need to read." This site is my favorite "thing" so far!

Thing 10

2009-07-30T18:11:00.001-07:00

The image creators were really fun to play with. To use personally, I really like http://www.imagechef.com/. It allows you to make images into ecards and post things on Facebook and blogs. For school I love http://www.wordle.net/. I can imagine my students making up poems and publishing them with this site. You can find my wordle at

http://www.customizemagnets.com/ecards/childrens.asp is a nice site for making cards, certificates, and labels for the classroom.

Thing 9

2009-07-29T18:56:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have a confession to make...I'm not a big blog fan...It's just that blogs are so random...their professional, personal, informative, casual, all at the same time! If I'm going to read a blog I'm going to read it for ideas on how to be a better teacher or future librarian. The people that I go to for inspiration are published writers, so they are not going to blog their brilliant ideas for free! Maybe some of you can recommend worthwhile blogs to me.
While working through blog search tools I found that http://edublogawards.com/ had a nice, comprehensive list of educational blogs. I wish that their list had a comment about what the blogs where about.
I love tidbits of news, so http://www.topix.net/ is really cool. I really liked how it’s organized by local, national, and international news. I couldn't find anything on education on http://technorati.com/.
Some blogs that I found that I liked and could relate to are http://www.teachersatrisk.com/ and
http://bettyb.teacherlingo.com/ Betty has some great tidbits for daily teaching.
Maybe as the school year starts and I get ideas from the blogs they'll grow on me!

Thing 8

2009-07-28T11:15:00.000-07:00

I'm a little irritated because the internet system is really slow at UHCL today! So searching through blogs has been very time consuming! I love that readers put all your favorite blogs together in one glance. It saves the user time. I would love to create a list of blogs in my reader about movies, books, and Houston restaurants and hotspots...that's on my to do list. For know I'm following blogs that will help me as a teacher and future librarian.
I think administators can use readers to communicate ideas that they believe would benefit the school. Everyone on campus can have a reader that follows their favorite educators, staff developers and philosophers. Does anyone know if Lucy Caulkins or Kathy Collins blog? I've searched but haven't found any. BTW, love the bloglist gadget, I imported my followed blogs from Google Reader.

Thing 7: Google

2009-07-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

With Google I explored Scholar Google and Google Calendar. With Scholar google I searched for PowerPoints that are about balanced literacy. I found a powerpoint about balanced literacy and incorporating technology. I also created a calendar. I like the calendar because it can be accessed from anywhere, and it seams by personal and professional schedules perfectly.

2009-07-22T13:11:00.000-07:00

Thing 6: Mashups
When I hear the word mashup, I automatically thought it was when DJs mixed two songs together, so the media mashups were totally new to me. I found some mashups that I would like to use personally, and some I would like to use in my career. I loved http://www.programmableweb.com/mashup/1000-songs
This website has a list of 1000 songs everone must hear before they die. You can listen to the songs and look at lyrics.
I really liked http://animalphotos.info/a/ . This website combines Flickr and search engine to search animal photos.
http://addroo.com/src/ is a search engine that when you type in a search photos, video clips, and news articles come up. This would be a powerful search engine for students researching online.

2009-07-22T12:40:00.000-07:00

Thing 5 :Flickr

I have never used Flickr before in my teaching, I usually used pictures that I searched from the web. I know friends have used Flickr to share pics of thier kids. When I searched through Flickr I looked for geographic pictures. So many of our students don't get a chance to travel, so it's nice to show them real pictures of places and things that they learn about. I have a picture of Lake Tahoe, the Rocky Mountains, and a prarie...all geographic forms that students study in elementary.

Blogging

2009-07-15T18:28:00.001-07:00

Thanks to my last class I had a blog set up...thanks Trudy... I had a bit of a problem saving my cute Avatar...read the directions...duh. Story of my life!

7 Habits of Higly successful People

2009-07-15T18:20:00.000-07:00

So, I've started a new class: Media Tech Selection and Application, sounds pretty heavy duty huh. As part of our classwork we are going through Library2Play: 23 Things to play on the internet. Before we start we are to examine ourselves as life-long learners, and think about ourselves in terms of the 7 habits of highly successful people. I consider myself a pretty optimistic person, (my husband would disagree) so I think I'm pretty good at being proactive, and having the end in mind. Being a reading teacher really helps me to think about goals needing to be met. I don't get the whole "synergize" thing. I know it's made fun of in the media, but I want to learn more about the true meaning. If Covey wrote it, it must be good.

Using the Internet to Enhance Learning

2009-07-01T12:52:00.000-07:00

I am in the mist of summer one classes, and the pace is fast and furious. I'm taking two courses, am on the computer at least three hours a day, and driving an hour to class Monday through Wednesday...my daughter misses her mother!
One of the courses I'm taking is an online course of Applications of Technology. Let me just tell you, I am quite a novice to all the computer business. Sure, I have a Facebook page, can use Office applications, and am now a blogger (thanks to this class), but as a classroom teacher, my technology usage has been a bit shallow. We do things like PowerPoint, use the Smart Board, and use math software like JIJI. I would really like to utilize the Internet more to enhance and excite my teaching.
I would like to share some ideas to enhance learning with the internet whether it be in the classroom or in the Library.

Book Clubs and Fan Fiction – I recently heard Debra Marshall, a school librarian in Coppell ISD speak about her library program. She has a book club for all grades, K-5 !
How awesome is that! How could you enhance a book club with the internet? How about using the format of Fan Fiction? You can share some appropriate stories form FanFiction.net, students can write a story that goes along with the book, and post it on the internet. Sadly, students have to be 13 years old to post on
http://www.FanFiction.net , and other fan fiction sites, but a librarian or teacher can use NVU, a program to create a website, and post the students’ fan fiction on the website. How exciting would your students be to see their stories published on the internet?

Use TrackStar- http://trackstar.4teachers.org/ is a website available for educators to design online lessons and activities. A librarian can put together websites for research, or lessons on Information Literacy. Check out this trackStar for an example.

Research Favorite Authors- Teach using a search engine by researching favorite authors. Most authors have websites with personal information. Have a scavenger hunt of facts about authors. What inspired them to write? Where do they live? How many books have they written? Do they have pets? Students are always surprised and delighted when they find out personal information about their favorite author.

As a technology student, I have a secret for all those technology novices, It's not as hard as it seems! I have squealed in delight when I try to do something new (NVU, TrackStar, blog) and it works! These ideas are free, easy to use, and are sure to excite students.