My search for picture books that portray the power of fathers to foster empathy with nature. I recall from my childhood that the sight of a fly in the kitchen would put my city-raised mother into “Rambo” mode. She would take command, wielding the fly swatter with precision, offering no forgiveness to any insect that… Read More
Wordless picture books are a treasure trove of quality illustrations that engage both younger and older students. Without the support of words, these richly illustrated books offer a visual landscape of intriguing details that invite the “reader” to interpret. Wordless picture books have wide appeal. Non-readers, English language learners, emergent readers, early readers . .… Read More
Storytelling is an important part of children’s play in nature. It is at the core of how they come to understand their outdoor experiences. Listening closely to the stories can reveal much about the child’s awareness, understanding and connection to nature. My favorite picturebook depiction of the child in nature is the classic Wild, Wild… Read More
“The read aloud is an absolutely magical and profound tool for inspiring, motivating and engaging readers of all ages.” – Pam Allyn, Founder, Lit World Wednesday, February 24, is World Read Aloud Day – an annual awareness day for literacy that brings global attention to the importance of reading aloud and sharing stories. It is… Read More
The lists of read-aloud suggestions found on this website include many nature titles that can be described best as creative nonfiction. What is it? In a nutshell, creative nonfiction employs the literary techniques of fiction; creative structure, art and design; and the facts. The facts are “dressed” in an engaging writing style and/or creative visuals… Read More
Just as the picture book narrative offers a meaningful context for learning language concepts, structures and vocabulary; so, also, picture book art can provide a rich teaching tool for presenting the basic elements of art – line, shape, form, color and texture. Picture book illustrations are often the child’s first exposure to art. Since story… Read More