A Diamond in the Desert by Kathryn Fitzmaurice

It’s about: This is about 12-year-old Tetsu and his family, who are sent to an internment camp in the Arizona Desert after Pearl Harbor because they are Japanese-Americans. When his father is sent to a different camp, Tetsu must decide between his love of baseball and his responsibilities as the oldest son.

Why I love it: I love historical fiction.  It is engrossing and teaches the kids about important historical periods. This book has won a ton of awards, and the author is really nice.  She’ll do a free Skype interview with you class if you tweet her!

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

It’s about: This story is told from the point of view of Ally Nickerson. Ally is a really smart girl. She’s so smart she’s been able to fool a lot of people. One day, however, Mr. Daniels comes to substitute for Ms. Hall. He figures out Ally when no one else could.

Why I love it: This book covers some really important themes: dyslexia, friendship, family, bullying, overcoming adversity, identity, perseverance, and the power of asking for help.  It really packs a punch!  It’s a great discussion starter!

Flor and Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo

It’s about: The story is about Flora, a self-described cynic, who witnesses a tragedy/miracle in her neighbor’s backyard. She is able to revive the squirrel and names him Ulysses.  Adventure ensues!

Why I love it: It’s part graphic novel, part narrative.  It really catches the kids’ attention.  It also covers some serious issues, such as divorce and abandonment.

Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai

It’s about: This book is written in free verse, chronicling Ha’s journey from war-torn Vietnam to Alabama and her subsequent problems as a second language learner and with bullying.  She is 10 years old.

Why I love it: This is great for our students from Vietnam to see a book about someone like them.  It’s written in free verse, which I love because it’s more accessible to struggling readers.  Beautifully written.

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

It’s about: This is about Ivan the gorilla.  He lives in the Big Top Mall.  He’s content with living in his domain until a new resident comes.

Why I love it: This is another book written in free verse.  Very short poems that really pack a punch!  Kids love to read books about animals.  I cry every time I read it.

 

Rain, Reign by Ann M. Martin

It’s about: Rose Howard is a girl who loves homonyms.  She even named her dog Rain (get it, Rain, Reign?).  Rose is on the autism spectrum and sometimes is not quite understood by her father or teachers.  She has a special bond with her uncle and her dog.  But one day, her dog disappears…

Why I love it: We have so many students on the autism spectrum these days, I think it’s important for students to understand it and be empathetic.  This helps them see that they are just like them.

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The Tequila Worm by Viola Canales

It’s about: This book is about Sofia, who lives in Texas.  She’s really smart and is one day offered a scholarship to a fancy school…

Why I love it: This book was honored by the Pura Belpre award, which is given to Latino writers that celebrate the Latino experience.  This book shares so many cultural experiences: Easter cascarones, Dia de los Muertos, the Christmas nacimeiento and, of course, the tequila worm.  My students are all Latino, and every time we read this, it connects to them in ways that other books don’t.  I love it.

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Wonder by R.J. Palacio

It’s about: This book is about August Pullman, Auggie to his friends and family.  He was born with a facial deformity and has had a lot to deal with because of it.  But he’s growing older now, and his parents feel it might be time to go to school instead of being home schooled.  This book talks about his adjustment to school and the students’ adjustment to him.

Why I love it: If you haven’t read this, read it now!  It’s told from different points of view, which make it great to teach perspective/point of view.  How what may be true in your eyes, may look different in someone else’s eyes.  Discussion points: empathy, friendship, family–so, so many things!

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Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

It’s about: Alice, of course!  Alice goes on an adventure, but not just any adventure: It’s an adventure in Wonderland!  She meets the white rabbit, the Cheshire cat, and the Red Queen along the way.

Why I love it: This is the first time my kids really come upon word play.  It’s considered one of the best examples of the literary nonsense genre.  We love talking about the symbolism.  It’s a classic for a reason, and it’s part of the suggested Common Core readings.

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The Cay by Theodore Taylor

It’s about: This book is about Phillip, who lives in Curacao with his mother and father. The time period is WW2, and German subs are surrounding the island.  His mother decides they should go back to the States.  On their way, however, their boat is torpedoed.

I teach fourth grade! I am an NBCT in Literacy, Reading, and Language Arts. I have a BCC (Bilingual Certification) and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Instructional Technology. And I love books!

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