Sunday, August 23, 2009

Winnie's War

I just finished reading Winnie's War by Jenny Moss. It is a historical fiction set in 1918 in my neighborhood of Houston/Galveston. Winnie is the oldest of 3 girls who lives with a troubled mother, quiet father, and controlling grandmother. Spanish Influenza is spreading in the area and Winnie feels compelled to keep her family safe from this deadly disease.

The writing is smooth and descriptive. The characters are well developed and believable. I was engaged throughout the entire story wanting answers along with Winnie and feeling fear for her family.

I would recommend this book for fifth graders and older. I think it's a winner in the historical genre.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

New School Year

I'm about to start a new school year. It brings me a great deal of excitement to think about the books I want to introduce to my students! I will have a new schedule with more time to do Book Clubs, projects, and promote reading! This will be a terrific year with more opportunities to encourage a love of reading.
This summer I have been busy reading some of the newest children's literature and will share some of those books in the next few weeks. I must first prepare for the next week when all our kids will enter the school with much anticipation.
What a great time of year!