Media Matters

 Picture book by Abi Cushman. A good way to discuss the idea that your mood is determined by your attitude, not your circumstances. Would be a fun gift to give with a hula hoop.

 Picture book by Lisa Wheeler. The writing and illustrations are top notch in this one! Wonderful book about all the various workers in different occupations who collaborate in order to create things. In particular, it’s an ode to blue collar workers and the importance of the work they do. Do we notice and appreciate the contributions of others? Writing thank you notes would be a good tie-in activity. It’s not in the book, but this would be a great discussion starter about the scriptural admonition for people to not worship the work of their own hands. In other words, to acknowledge God’s role in the creation process. Who grew the trees? Who created the ore? Who created your brain and gave it the ability to imagine and plan? Who created your hands and muscles to be able to do the physical labor?

Book by Rajani Larocca. This is a fictional story, but it is based on many of the author’s own experiences growing up, and that authenticity shines through. Written in exquisite free verse, it tells the story of Reha, an American girl whose parents emigrated from India before she was born, and the struggle of straddling those two worlds. The story takes place in the 80’s and there are some fun pop culture references that add layers of meaning to the poetry. It is also a tearjerker, sad and lovely at the same time. Highly recommended for ages 12+. Trigger warning/SPOILER alert: The mom gets cancer and dies.

 A collection of poems by Jack Prelutsky Most poetry collections are a mixed-bag, and this one is lackluster more often than not.  However, there were 10 Poems I quite liked and found clever and would recommend: The Leaves are Drifting (p. 10) Figure 8 (p. 24) My Carrots are Angry (p. 34) A Groundhog Speaks (p. 68) My Cows Have Stopped Mooing (p. 74) A Kitchen Sink (p. 75) I Love to Sleep All Morning (p. 107) Sludd (p. 108) If You Fail (p. 120) Tallulah (p. 130)

 Picture book collection of poems by Amy Ludwig VanDerwater. This is a book of poetry all about various aspects of the writing process. Several of the poems are quite exquisite in their word choice.