Monday Must-Read: Harry Potter

I don't think I even needed to post that this book is a MUST READ, especially for reluctant readers. If they listen to it via audiobook, it might get them hooked on reading. I read these books when they first came out, several years ago and since then, my husband (who proclaims to not be a reader) has read them several times. Soon, my sons will read them too. Do I watch the movies???? Nope! I prefer the mind-movie that comes when I read the book. So, if you haven't read this book or the series, I would highly recommend it!

Monday Must Read: Diary of a Wimpy Kid

I will just say upfront- I have not read these books. . . yet! They seem to always be unavailable when I get a spare second to read "for fun." However, I have noticed how motivating they are for readers since they have humor, graphics, and "kid-talk." My son loves them and actually wanted to have a diary too. However, I don't know if you have searched lately for a diary for a 2nd grade boy, but there really isn't much on the market. (Hint, hint, Scholastic!!!)

Let me know if you've read these books or how you might use them in your classroom! :) I am hoping that once I'm done with my masters program I will have a tad more time to add some classroom activities or links to use with these "must-reads." Until then, just enjoy some great kid literature.

Monday Must Read: How to Steal a Dog

I read this book awhile back with Zachary. It is another cute, although sad book. It is about a girl that wants to steal a dog to get a reward so she can have money. Her family is homeless and she tries to be creative to find ways to get a little bit of money. I have an emotional connection with this book because it was the first book I've read with Zachary that he actually had empathy for other people. He had no idea that there were homeless people or that sometimes kids do have to live in cars or hotels.

Monday Memo- Read "We Can't All be Rattlesnakes"

Zachary and I just finished reading this book:

It is adorably cute. Our family has a healthy respect for snakes. My mom was bit by a rattlesnake when she was younger so we have learned the mighty power of them and to be respectful of them in their environment. This book is written from a snake's point of view. I've never read a book from that point of view before, so it was comical and cute. Its a fun and quick read.

Monday Memo: Read "The Underneath"

I like to use every opportunity I can to read "kids" books. Now that my son is a 2nd grader and reads at a much higher level, we can enjoy books together. This is a recent book that we enjoyed together. I like to try to choose some books off the William Allen White nomination list for the year. This book is simply amazing. I hate using such a simple word to describe it, so please click on this link to tell you more about it. There are many tales woven together with such a rich vocabulary.

What books have YOU read recently?