Bonnie Mackey

We have all enjoyed alphabet books over the years as children and with our children, but these authors not only have created an annotate bibliography of over 300 books, but suggest uses far beyond just a one time read through with children. They suggest all kinds of uses in writing at all grade levels that it dawns on us that in our makerspace of the libraruy learning vcommons, we can have a writing center and have kids not only enjoy a stack of examples, but using computer programs create some ebooks that could be added to our digital collection. Why not stir up more creativity? We say, “Why not.” Think of the possibilities with this one across the grade levels.… (more)

Gardening with children seems to come an go in the elementary curriculum and with the emphasis totally on test scores, these days, perhaps teaching real stuff is a lost art, however, in a downturned economy, perhaps it is something worth reviving as asurvival strategy. Should the teacher librarian be in charge of the school garden? Please, not. But, we can promote it, help, guide, coach, and celebrate. This is a good popular guide of ideas for manageable gardens and as an extended school/parent connection would be extremely helpful at this difficult time. That is why we recommend buying and promoting this book to the faculty. It’s all a part of health and wellness.… (more)