Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Winter Reading 2019 Snowman - Cold = Puddle: Spring Equations

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Looking at this title always brings to mind Olaf from "Frozen" singing about snowmen in summertime. The author has created poetic word equations that are supported by oil and collage illustrations of spring scenes. Additional information is shared in smaller type so that the equations take center stage.

Here is an example from the first spread. "science + poetry = surprise!" is displayed against a snowy landscape with spring flowers peeking through. Below the equation readers see, "Science is why and how a flower grows. Poetry is looking at that flower and seeing a firework. Surprise!" The last spread leaves young readers with the thought, "you + the world = ?"

Back matter includes an author's note, illustrator's note, a discussion of when spring actually starts, and a list for further reading. This is a wonderful book to use as a mentor text in poetry units or a study of seasons. A collaboration with the art teacher would create a opportunity for an art and poetry display and gallery walk. Imagine the possibilities!



I met Laura Purdie Salas at NCTE and she kindly signed a copy of the book for my school library.

3 comments:

  1. Hi Suzanne,

    I hope you’re doing well. I work with Aurora Publicity, and I came across The Fairview Review and I was wondering if you might be interested in this unique middle grade series by playwright and author Jenna Zark. It’s historical middle grade and takes place in 1950s New York during the Beat Generation. Book one has been out for a few years and is called The Beat on Ruby’s Street. Book 2 – Fool’s Errand recently released. We’d be happy to offer you ecopies of both books in the series for review if interested. You can email me if interested at Pam.Labbe@aurorapublicity.com Have a great weekend!

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  2. Thank you for sharing, Suzanne--I'm so glad you enjoyed the book! (The photo doesn't show up for me, but as I rarely like the way I look in photos, that might be a good thing! Hehe.) I always love meeting educators at NCTE. It's my favorite conference to go to!

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    1. I love meeting authors and then telling my students about them. The kids always say that I am lucky to "know so many famous people."

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