Brigitte Raab

Raab, B. (2012). Mama, I can't sleep. (Ill. Olten, M.). New York: Skyhorse Pub. ISBN: 1616089652. Hardcover; $16.95

This would be a great book to use for a first grade class to introduce a unit about animals. The book is about a little girl who is having trouble falling asleep so, her mom tells her about all types of animals and how they sleep. The little girl attempts to use her imagination to sleep like the animals her mom describes, but is unsuccessful. As a class we could try out sleeping show more like the different animals because I believe being physically involved promotes learning. Also, it would allow a fun way for my students to move around instead of sitting and listening. For example, the book describes that a stork sleeps only on one leg. After making sure the students have enough space, I could have all my students stand on one leg and close their eyes briefly. I think it would be a fun way for my students to understand that all animals are different, more specifically, that all animals sleep differently. show less

This book is both delightful and insightful. It answers an assortment of questions about nature with true facts in an interesting way. Illustrations are very good. This book should be good for 2 through 6 yeaer-olds.