Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Two Independent Bookstores to Close

This Publishers Weekly article about the impending closure of two independent bookstores in Connecticut made me think of one of my favorite movies, You've Got Mail.  Enjoy the film clip below, and support small businesses in your neighborhood.






Happy reading and shop small,
Christine

Monday, June 16, 2014

Bite-Sized Magic

Last night, I finished reading Bite-Sized Magic, the third book in the Bliss series, by Kathryn Littlewood.  It was my least favorite of the series, because it contained the fewest magical back stories.  However, it is very relevant to today's social and economic issues.  It could stand as a parable about the dangers of corporate personhood and growing monopolies.  It certainly could launch a discussion about greed and class and injustice.

Happy reading,
Christine

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

The Fault in Our Stars

Just finished reading The Fault in Our Stars, and I have to say it is difficult to watch the Stanley Cup Finals with tears in your eyes.  Thank you very much, John Green, for writing such a compelling book, that I couldn't put it down, even to watch the Rangers battle for their lives!
Thankfully, my attention was divided between the book and the hockey game, otherwise I think it would have been even more upsetting.  While many of my students and my own children's friends have read and loved the book, I think it is probably emotionally easier for 'tweens or teens to read this book, than it is for a parent.  For that reason, although it is beautifully written, I'm not sure I would recommend it for parents to read.  Too disturbing.



Happy reading,
Christine

Saturday, June 7, 2014

My Articles Out Now

The June/July issue of Scholastic Parent and Child is out now, and in it are two of my recent articles.  The first, "Opting-Out is In, But Does it Work?" contains the opinions of three experts who weigh in on the issue. Pick up a copy at your local newsstand to see the opinions of Bob Schaeffer, Public Education Director for Fair Test: National Center for Fair and Open Testing; Diane Hernandez, Director of Assessment Development for the California Department of Education; and Carol Varsalona, literacy consultant. The second, "Field Guide to the Introvert" offers tips for helping your introverted child thrive in his or her own way.

Happy reading,
Christine