To say that Grace Lin speaks to the Asian American experience is probably not specific enough and, simultaneously, also much greater than that. As a sensei (sorry, I’m half Japanese and this means second generation in Japanese), Grace speaks poignantly of the pushes and pulls between her homeland and her “Americanization” conflicts that stem from trying to find the space where she fits in and yet connects with her ethnicity. I especially love Grace Lin’s Pacy series. The Year of the Dog is where Pacy discovers her career path in writing and illustrating books. The Year of the Rat has Pacy dealing with big changes coping from the loss of her best friend — the only other Asian American girl in her class who moves away to California. In real life, this happens to Grace as well, and this best friend turns out to be her future editor!
Tag: 3rd to 4th Grade Chapter Book
Chapter books for 3rd and 4th grade kids.
Trade-First Subtraction App to Learn Carry Subtraction!
This is a great educational iPhone and iPad math app, and well worth $1.99 though it is very specific to one math concept, albeit a tricky one!
Top 10: Best Children’s Books On Civil Rights Movement
In honor of Martin Luther King, Junior, I have selected ten children’s and young adult books, both fiction and non-fiction, to help us all to understand exactly the magnitude of achievement that Martin Luther King, Jr. accomplished during his too short life. Happy Martin Luther King, Junior Day! And thank you to all the unsung heroes out there who stand up to injustice every day!
Mythology for Kids: D’Aulaires and The National Mythology Exam
D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths is perfect for grades 3-7th AND for preparing kids for The National Mythology Exam which some kids take for fun.
Top 10: Best Historical Fiction for Kids
Please give a warm welcome to my librarian/blogger extraordinaire/Mom Friend The Fourth Musketeer! She graciously agreed to guest post on her her favorite books of 2011. I really, really wanted her list because she’s an expert in children’s and young adult historical fiction, and selfishly, I wanted this list for myself and my kids! We will work our way through it in 2012! How about you? What is your favorite historical fiction picture book, chapter book or young adult book?
How To: Create a Great Kids’ Book Club (Activity and Book Suggestions)
Some ideas on how to set up a book club for your child with examples of successful book club meetings.
The Penderwicks and Science of Dark Matter
The Penderwicks on Gardam Street brings up research on Dark Matter. Here’s more information on Dark Matter to draw out the scientist in your child.