February 17, 2013

Give Lessons a Byte on Digital Learning Day

Join the nation’s many school librarians and educators planning to dive into projects, programs, and day-long activities tomorrow in celebration of the second annual Digital Learning Day.

Game and Music Reviews from Young Adults

Paper Mario

What a delight to see that Paper Mario is back in action, paperizing everything in sight! Our music reviews highlight two very different performers, both chart leaders in their own genres, who sweep away listeners with their unique voices and styles.

Hank and John Green: Using Their Powers for Good

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Anyone who works with teens should know about and embrace Hank and John Green. You can get to know the siblings through the VlogBrothers, a YouTube channel where Hank and John trade video conversations back and forth on every topic under the sun. This vlog inspired a host of followers christened Nerdfighters, not because they fight nerds, but because they are nerds who endeavor to be awesome.

SLJTeen Talks to James Patterson

I Funny cover

In addition to best-selling mysteries and thrillers for adults, James Patterson also writes for young readers, and he’s extremely proud of his “Middle School” series. The latest entry, I Funny, is told from the point of view of a middle schooler who uses humor to help him cope with a physical handicap and the loss of his family. In this case, laughter really is the best medicine for Jamie Grimm, the narrator of I Funny.

From the Ground Up | Jonathan Bean and the Art of the Story

BUILDINGOUR-HOUSE

Author and illustrator Jonathan Bean takes readers through his creative process behind his latest title, “Building Our House.”

Nonfiction Notes | Inching Toward Women’s History Month

Adlertubman

This month, Curriculum Connections’ newest column “Nonfiction Notes” highlights the latest quality nonfiction titles, with a special emphasis on books about women.

Hats Off to Dr. Seuss!

Hats Off to Seuss!_Group Photo

All things Seuss were in the air Monday at the 42nd branch of the New York Public Library as Random House Children’s Books and Dr. Seuss Enterprises launched its “Hats Off to Dr. Seuss!” campaign, a yearlong celebration of the famed children’s book author.

Doers and Dreamers | Celebrating Black History

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In observation of Black History Month, Curriculum Connections takes a look at a variety of titles that highlight the achievement of African Americans. From abolitionists to artists, there’s something for every collection.

Choice Books to Spark Discussion on Bullying

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Great titles that address bullying in a variety of ways, providing information, offering the comfort of knowing that others are facing similar challenges, and presenting strategies for surviving. Booktalk them and recommend them to teachers to share with their students to increase awareness and empathy, initiate discussion, and begin to bring about change.

Old-time Gals with Gumption | The Picture Books of Shana Corey

Herecome

Shana Corey’s picture-book biographies feature little-known women with buckets of gumption.