Alice K. Flanagan

The book “Weather” written by Alice K. Flanagan comes with its shares of advantages and flaws. While it is an introductory read into the various weather phenomenon occurring in nature, in some parts the explanations have fallen short. For example the author never clearly mentions the occurrence of hail yet includes illustrations of the same in the text. In a bid to make the language more lucid, somewhere the explanations have been insufficient, like the reason for season change. Again show more when one wants to refer to map to check the cause of rainfall, he/she gets no guidance in understanding the map. The book is enjoyable because of its easy flowing nature, ample realistic illustrations and pictures and for the topic itself. The font style and size are also likeable. Altogether, one can treat this book as a light read for children but not a curriculum text. show less

~borrowed from the Library

CATS is a cute little book with a specific purpose. And that purpose is to give examples of the short "A" sound. (Children learn to read the way they learn to speak. They observe and find patterns. This book gives kids a chance to work out the patterns.)

CATS is at the Kindergarten reading level. There are 61 words in this books -- presented in a HUGE font-- and 11 cheerful, fun pictures of cats.

Here is some sample text:

See the cat
in the hat.

See the cat
in a jam.

See show more the cat
play with Pam.

This book certainly might be one to get if you have a toddler or preschooler who likes cats. They can begin to enjoy the book by just perusing the pictures. When they get close to the reading stage you can let them memorize and then point out certain words, such as 'cat', as your finger traces the sentences. As they gain confidence, they can take over more of the reading. **

Not for everyone, but worth checking out for the right beginning reader.

**if you want help with the letters and their sounds I highly recommend the LeapFrog Letter Factory video. show less

Perfect book to teach about other cultures and holidays. Illustrations are very good and colorful, can also be used in lessons about mythical creatures like dragons and how different cultures all have their own folktales and myths which might be the source of big events or holidays which are still celebrated today.

Genre: Informational
Review: This book discusses the holiday Cinco de Mayo, a Mexican holiday celebrating freedom on May 5th. The book talks about the history of the Mexican people, starting with the Mayans and Aztecs and moving onto Spanish rule. It then talks about the Battle of Puebla which took place on May 5th and is what the holiday celebrates. Then, Mexican foods, music, and dances are shared, as well as Cinco de Mayo in the U.S. I liked this book overall because I think it gives a show more good description of the holiday and covers the history. However, I think there should have been more information about the Battle of Puebla. I do not think that the information about the day itself is sufficient. However, the cultural parts are very well covered. I think this is a good informational book because the information is presented in a simple way and does not have lists of information. The illustrations are also interesting, though the don't add much to the text.
Uses: I would use this book in class to learn about the history of Mexico, Mexican culture, or the holiday itself. I think it would work best to read in class and would be good to read on May 5th itself.
Media: Computer generated show less