Middle School Math Materials for Common Core

Here is a link to PBS resources for Common Core math in the middle school.  Enjoy!

Happy reading and computing,
Christine

Book Bliss

I just finished reading the aptly-named Bliss, by Kathryn Littlewood.   This middle-grade novel combines magic, mystery, muffins and a motorcycle-riding aunt.  Rose, the twelve year-old protagonist discovers that her family owns a magical cook book.  When her parents are called out of town, Rose and her siblings cook up some chaos.  Hungry for more, I just ordered the sequel, A Dash of Magic.

Happy reading and baking,
Christine

Joy Cowley - Writing Workshop

Loved the book, Mrs. Wishy-Washy?  Want to write for children, but not sure where to start?  Join Joy Cowley and Suzanne Bloom for a week long  writing workshop offered by The Highlights Foundation.  Click here for details, and maybe someday I'll be reviewing your book on this blog, or in a national magazine!

Happy reading and writing,
Christine

What I'm Reading Now

I just finished reading Still Life with Bread Crumbs, by Anna Quindlen.  If you've read my blog before, you know that I love the way Anna Quindlen writes.  I found this book a little more difficult to get into than some of her others, but about halfway through, I was really hooked.  Of course, what I really loved was the dedication:
                     "For all the teachers who helped make my work possible- and for my favorite teacher, 
                      Theresa Quindlen"

How can you not like someone who appreciates teachers and gets the fact that the teaching profession makes all other professions possible?

Happy reading,
Christine

My Article Out Now!

No Foolin' - the April issue of Scholastic Parent and Child is out now.  Here is a sneak peek at my "Field Guide to Class Clowns."

Happy reading,
Christine

The Secret Ingredient

I just finished reading The Secret Ingredient, by Laura Schaefer.  I loved all of the recipes and food references in this sequel to The Teashop Girls, but I feel adults will love this book more than the middle graders and young adults for whom it was intended.  While I personally love visiting farmers' markets, I'm not sure how many young adults truly appreciate the importance of using the freshest, locally-grown ingredients in their cooking.  Also, sometimes the protagonist's voice felt a little too grown up for me.  I've worked with middle-graders for years, and I've never once heard any of them discuss someone's "pleasant demeanor," as does the eighth-grade protagonist of this book.  Still, if you love cooking, tea and organic foods, and are looking for a quick read without any violence or inappropriate language, this may be the book for you.  There are even a few references to fashion models and actresses being too thin and unhealthy looking, a point that can't be stressed enough with youth who are bombarded with images of superficial beauty ideals. 

Happy reading,
Christine

Writer's Retreat

Here is a week-long retreat for writers.  Hone your craft in the Poconos under the tutelage of some of the most accomplished professionals in children's publishing.

Happy reading and writing,
Christine