Inspirations

While listening to WTOP this morning as I was doing my morning get-ready-for-work routine, I was saddened to hear that Jaime Escalante, the Los Angeles math teacher who inspired the film Stand and Deliver, died at the age of 79 from bladder cancer. Being a sucker for inspirational teacher stories, Stand and Deliver is definitely one of my favorites. In honor of Mr. Escalante and of all teachers, I'd like to tell you about my favorite inspirational teacher books and movies.

Children's/YA Books:

Anne of Avonlea

Oh, those Pyes! Anne deals with her first school at the tender age of "half-past sixteen."

The Cat Ate My Gymsuit

One of the late Paula Danziger's best and well-known novels about an unconventional teacher and the student who tries to get him rehired.



Dangerous Minds/My Posse Don't Do Homework

LouAnne Johnson was incensed when the movie version of her memoir, My Posse Don't Do Homework, was titled Dangerous Minds (she thought it cast a very negative view of the students). Despite that, it's still an excellent movie (I love the part when Michelle Pfeiffer tells them that she can kill a man with her bare hands) and book (we have the retitled book).



The Forbidden Schoolhouse

The amazing story of Prudence Crandall, who in 1830 opened a school for African-American children in Connecticut and was thrown into jail for her efforts, is an unforgettable read.



Frindle

My favorite story from the king of school stories. Funny and also teaches a lesson about the power of words.



Helen's Eyes

This list wouldn't be complete without a mention of Anne Sullivan Macy. National Geographic's biography for young readers will give children a great appreciation of the giant behind Helen Keller's success.



Miss Spitfire

A memorable and engrossing fictionalized look at Anne Sullivan Macy and Helen Keller. One of my favorites from 2007.



My Heart Glow

A lovely picture book biography of Thomas Gallaudet, developer of American Sign Language, and the young girl who inspired him.



Spelldown

Karlene's language may put off some readers, but this YA novel of a young spelling champ and her supportive Latin teacher is a winner.



The Wednesday Wars

Mrs. Baker is a trip! One of my all-time favorites.



The Year of Miss Agnes

A lovely story of a teacher and her Alaskan Native class; another favorite.


Adult biographies/memoirs/fiction:



Christy

Yes, it's not the world's greatest literature, but this story of a teacher and the Appalachian community in which she teaches never fails to warm my heart (it's one of my few rereads). The first several episodes in the miniseries are the best; once it became successful, they strayed further from the actual story.



The Freedom Writers Diary

What a tearjerker! Erin Gruwell's story of her English class is inspirational, heartwrenching at times, and a joy to read. Sensitive readers should be aware that the grim situations of some students lives are not glossed over. This was made into a movie, but I haven't seen it.

Helen and Teacher

This is the gold star, Cadillac, A++ biography of Helen Keller, unique in that Anne Sullivan Macy's life is as equally detailed as is Helen Keller's life. Macy is occasionally (frequently?) canonized; readers will be surprised to learn of her sometimes shocking punishment of the young Helen Keller (one punishment was to tie Helen's hands so that she was unable to communicate) and her resistance to speech therapy for Helen, as well as Keller's radical politics as an adult. It's a huge undertaking to read (over 800 pages), but well worth it.



Teacher Man

The late Frank McCourt's account of his teaching days in New York City public schools is a phenomenal read.



The Water is Wide

"Didn't Pat Conroy write a book about a teacher working in a Gullah-like community?" This ran through my head while composing this list. I read this years ago. I can't honestly tell you much about the book, but the fact that I remembered it existed (and I have only read a handful of Conroy's books) meant that it left an impression on me. It's Pat Conroy, so you know it's a great story.

Movies:



Dead Poets' Society

"Oh Captain, My Captain!" One of my all-time FAVORITE movies. I adore this movie. Makes me cry everytime when Robin Williams returns to the classroom one last time and the mean dean orders him to leave and Ethan Hawke is so shy and unconfident but he stands up on his desk and one by one all the other students except for that red-headed jerk stands up and WAAAAAH I'm gonna cry just thinking about it. In fact, I just requested one of our copies so that I can watch it again. I'm not a huge Robin Williams fan, but I think he is awesome in this movie. Everyone is awesome in this movie. If you haven't seen it, check it out.



The Miracle Worker

Oh, that scene by the water pump. This is the version to see (Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke). Don't bother with the others.



To Sir With Love

Another can't miss movie! This is a classic story about a young teacher (Sidney Poitier) at a tough inner-city London school.



Stand and Deliver

This is the one! I just requested a copy in honor of Mr. Escalante. I'm looking forward to seeing it again.

For even more inspiration, see A Year of Reading's 100 Cool Teachers in Children's Literature list.

If you're in a movies mood, check out the Top Inspirational Movies for Educators list from About.com. I love every movie on here (some embarrasingly more than I should, like The Karate Kid) except for Renaissance Man; I haven't seen it (it sounds good; I'll have to look out for it).

In honor of Women's History Month

A post from the past.

Passover

I was reminded, through different blog and Twitter posts, that Passover begins next Tuesday after sundown next Monday (thanks to Kathy B for the correction). I've had this blog for several years, so I wasn't sure if I've ever blogged about our Passover books. Turns out that the answer is no! Let's rectify this, shall we? We'll start with picture books (fiction).

My favorite type of holiday books for children are the ones that are all-inclusive; they make both the observer and non-observer welcome. Holiday books for children can easily fall into the trap of making the observers of that holiday "Other" and exotic.






Roni Schotter's Passover books, Passover Magic and Passover! are perfect for both Jewish and non-Jewish children. Although both stories follow similar events (visiting relatives, cooking, praying, eating, hiding the matzoh), they are intended for different audiences. Passover Magic is written for children who can sit still for a longer story, while Passover! is great for younger children (and is told in rhyme). Schotter includes a helpful afterword for adult readers, but I think a glossary would have been a terrific addition. That's my only quibble with these sweet books.



The Magician's Visit, retold by Barbara Diamond Goldin, was originally written in 1904 by I.L. Peretz. Building on the custom of opening the door for and pouring a cup of wine for the Prophet Elijah during the Seder, The Magician's Visit is a touching and stirring story of a poor young couple unable to afford the traditional Passover feast, and the stranger who visits them and asks to be invited to their Seder. The illustrations lend themselves perfectly to the Old World feel of the story. This was named an Honor Book by the Jewish Book Council.



The Matzah That Papa Brought Home is probably my favorite Passover book in this group. Told in the familiar "This is the house that Jack built" storytelling technique, this is a gorgeous and detailed look at the Seder meal. Since it only focuses on the meal itself and not on any extraneous details that other Passover books may focus on (relatives arriving, adults cooking in the kitchen, etc), it goes into more sophisticated detail, such as the singing of Dayenu, dipping pinkies into wine while remembering the plagues, etc. Although the text is simple, this is suitable for all ages, since it includes very specific details about the Seder. Cheers to Fran Manushkin for including a *very* detailed glossary.

Let's take a look at our nonfiction books.




Passover Around the World is a neat blend of stories, facts, and recipes. This book is particularly appealing because it recognizes the fact that there are Jewish communities in places other than Israel and the United States. Through short stories, we meet Jewish children living in Turkey, India, Morocco, Ethiopia, and Gibraltar. We also meet a family of Jewish Iranian immigrants. Each story, which illustrates a Passover/Jewish custom unique to that country, is followed by short facts and a recipe. Further explanation of Passover customs, including customs from countries not profiled in the stories, more recipes, and a glossary round out this great book.



I've never been unimpressed with a children's book from National Geographic, and their Holidays Around the World series is no exception. In Celebrate Passover With Matzah, Maror, and Memories, we meet childen from many countries (not just the US, Israel, and Europe) and cultures celebrating Passover. The photographs, as you can expect, are highlights of the book.



Eric Kimmel's Wonders and Miracles: A Passover Companion is a treasure. Oh, it is magnificent. This is the type of book that families pull out year after year for the holiday. Poetry, short stories, and informative pieces (that are ideal for reading aloud) guide the readers through the 14 parts of the Seder. We learn the meaning of each food on the seder plate, the reason for drinking four cups of wine, dipping parsley, stories from the Torah, an original play about the plagues by Kimmel, and so much more. Art reproductions add to the feel of a family treasure. This is one not to be missed. And since it's by such a fabulous storyteller and folklorist, you know that it's a beautiful and fabulous read.



Barbara Diamond Goldin's The Passover Journey: A Seder Companion is also a very worthwhile addition to a Passover books collection. The companion is actually the sum of two parts: Goldin's retelling of the Exodus story and a guide through the 14 steps of the Seder. This is also a terrific read aloud; Goldin often addresses the reader as "we," which creates an intimate feeling between the author, reader, and audience.

I've been a Miriam Chaikin fan ever since I read her Finders Weepers books in elementary school (I recently reread them and they beautifully hold up as engrossing historical fiction set in WWII Brooklyn). Her Jewish holidays nonfiction books are also top picks for any collection, so I was delighted to find Ask Another Question: The Story and Meaning of Passover. Written for independent readers, Chaikin retells the Exodus story, explains how the Passover celebration started, and takes us through the various customs and observances of Passover. Well worth a read.

For young children, Lynne Sharon Schwartz's The Four Questions is a look at the four questions asked by the youngest child (who's able to ask the questions) during the Seder. The questions are written in both English and Hebrew.

Although not specifically focused on Passover, my favorite general Jewish holidays book is Dance, Sing, Remember (this is a link to my review).



Finally, our newest Passover book is quite unique (it's a picture book, but I wanted to save it for last). The Yankee at the Seder tells of a chance encounter with a Jewish northern soldier and a Jewish Confederate Virginia family. Although ten year old Jacob is fiercely anti-Yankee, it is a tradition to have guests at the Seder meal, so the soldier is welcomed to the Seder. The meal turns interesting when the soldier and Jacob's father debate the meaning of the Exodus story: victory over a tyrannical government or freedom from slavery? This story, handed down from generations, is a special and remarkable historical fiction picture book for older children.

We have several other Passover books, but these books are the more exceptional ones. Enjoy!

A great day for the Irish (and New Orleanians)

In the better late than never category, here are two posts from the past in honor of St. Patrick's Day/Irish American Heritage Month and St. Joseph's Day.

March is Irish American Heritage Month.

St. Joseph's Day.

(For pictures of St. Joseph's altars in the New Orleans area, look here and here. For pictures of the Mardi Gras Indians celebrating St. Joseph Night, look here.)

Picture Books Palooza

I've been neglecting picture books recently, and that's not good! I'll try to include a picture book roundup every week. Let's look at some new and new-ish picture books:



The Fox and the Hen

A fox vs. hen story is not anything new (my personal favorite is Hungry Hen), but I've read good things about this one. Fox has stolen Hen's egg; her very first egg! It's up to Hen and her friends to take the egg back.



My Brother Charlie

Written for siblings of children with autism, My Brother Charlie is a gentle look at life with a brother with autism.



Let's Say Hi to Friends Who Fly!

Another Cat the Cat book from Mo Willems! I adore the Elephant & Piggie series, but I think Cat the Cat is just as fun. Keep an eye out for a new Knuffle Bunny book this fall.



Here Comes the Garbage Barge!

Do you remember (back in the 80s), when there was a garbage barge that traveled from city to city (started in Islip, NY), with each city refusing it? This is the story of what happened. Haven't seen it yet, but it's received great reviews.



Dogs

Oh, Emily Gravett's books are STUNNING. I adore her books. It's too bad that she's not eligible for a Caldecott (you have to be a U.S. resident). This is a celebration of dogs. Perfect for a toddler read aloud.



Brownie and Pearl Step Out

I'm so happy that Cynthia Rylant has a new picture book. Her books are so beautiful and timeless that I try to introduce her work to parents as often as possible. I believe Brownie and Pearl will be a series; good thing, because this is too darling to not continue!



Who's Awake in Springtime?

This is a great addition to our spring books collection. Although the parents are beyond done at the end of the day, baby animals (and a baby human) are not quite ready for a spring time day to end. Love it!



Henry in Love

Precious, precious, precious. It's the first day of school, and Henry has a crush on the most amazing girl rabbit in class. A sweet opposites-attract story involving a blueberry muffin.

Picture books aren't just for pre-readers; in my next picture book roundup, I'll discuss sophisticated picture books for older children.

One More Thing

I meant to add this to the last post! We recently acquired a FABULOUS book titled 1001 Children's Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up. The Warrenton youth services staff has been browsing through this addictive and fascinating book; it's a great mixture of modern titles, classics, international titles, and some really obscure titles. If you're familiar with the other 1001 books (typically, the titles end with "Before You Die"), you'll know that they are a browser's delight and great to have around when you are in between books (this one is a doorstopper; the books are usually paperback). Even if you have no intention of traveling to those 1001 places (although I think there was a reality show featuring a couple who was doing that; was it on PBS?), listening to 1001 recordings, or drinking those 1001 beers (that's coming out in a few months, I think), the books are awesome armchair travel books and very informative. Highly recommended.

Today, let's talk about March's offerings in chapter books and YA books. Lots of titles here, so I'll make it brief.



Out of My Mind

So excited about this one, since I admire Sharon Draper's work very much. This one sounds exceptional. Melody is quite brilliant, but due to her severe cerebral palsy, she is unable to communicate and is thought to be mentally challenged. When she finds out about an assistive communication device, she may be able to finally express herself. I've heard lots of buzz about this one.



Falling In

A new book from Frances O'Roark Dowell is always a treat. Isabelle falls into a parallel universe, where she is thought to be a witch sent to eat the children. Yay fun!



Northward to the Moon

I adore Polly Horvath! I loved My One Hundred Adventures and was so excited when I heard about this sequel. Jane's stepfather has lost his job and the family heads to Nevada. It's getting strong notices, unsurpisingly.



To Come and Go Like Magic

I have this checked out and will read ASAP. Young girl seeks the world outside her rural Kentucky home but learns to recognize the true beauty and worth of her home. Yes, the "there's no place like home" premise is not new, but I've heard good things about it, and I like Appalachian stories.



The Night Fairy

The Night Fairy! Oh, you have to read this! It's enchanting and lovely.



The Death-Defying Pepper Roux

I'm reading this ASAP for Capitol Choices. Pepper believes that he will die before his 14th birthday, so he runs away in order to change his identity and outrun death. Yeah, BIZARRE. But a really intriguing concept.



The Wonder Book

I put this in the March order as soon as I read about it, and I received an advance reader copy a few days ago. Just in time for National Poetry Month assignments! These are some really funny, wacky, and original poems. Lots of fun.



Meanwhile: Pick Any Path

Ooooh, I'm so looking forward to getting feedback on this book. This is a "choose your own adventure" graphic novel with over three thousand different story possibilities. And it all starts with one question, "Chocolate or vanilla?" I know one (adult) reader got confused with the story elements, but I think this might be one of those generational gap books. I'm thinking that this will go over like gangbusters.



Sit In: How Four Friends Stood Up By Sitting Down

It's been 50 years since the lunch counter sit in protests, and the Pinkneys are marking the occasion with this nonfiction picture book. I've never been disappointed with a Pinkney book.



Forget-Her-Nots

Don't know much about this book (YA), but it's set in Charlottesville, at a boarding school, and a motherless girl who shares her dead mother's connection with flowers. Apparently, they have magical connotations. I think it will go over well.



Katy's New World

For those interested in the ins and outs of the publishing industry, the changes in Christian fiction publishing has been very intriguing to watch, particularly since many houses have started a YA division. "Bonnet fiction," as Amish/Mennonite Christian fiction is described, remains hugely popular within Christian fiction (although that's not the totality of Christian fiction), and as more Christian publishing houses and imprints publish more YA Christian fiction (which really hasn't featured Amish/Mennonite stories; most stories feature contemporary issues of modern teen life), we're likely to see this trickle into YA Christian fiction. Katy's New World features the typical connection with the outside world story line found in Amish/Mennonite fiction; this is the start of a new series, so we'll see how popular this will be!



Borderline

To be honest, I wasn't sure about Borderline. Then, it started to get good reviews, with its depiction of Muslim life being noted in several reviews. Although Muslim characters are not really new to YA fiction, the ones that I can think of off the top of my head feature first-generation girls who have one foot in their traditional Muslim world and the other foot in their Westernized secular world (not unlike the premise of the previous book!). Sami's father is implicated in a terrorist plot, and he is determined to find out the truth. I'm getting excited about this one as I hear more good things about it.



A Small Free Kiss in the Dark

Awww, cool cover. The story sounds neat too; an eleven year old runaway meets up with misfits in a war-torn Australia when he escapes to a seaside amusement park. Good notices as well.



The Awakening

Vampire Diaries fans, we have the first book in the series (more to come, as they used to say on The Tonight Show bumpers).



Tagged

Another great cover! Katie's high school is "tagged" by grafitti artists, which of course sets off a huge commotion in the community. Kate tries to figure out the culprit, but she also secretly admires the artwork. There's also romance involved, of course. Sounds like a fun read.



The Last Summer of the Death Warriors

The author of Marcelo in the Real World's latest book sounds fantastic. Sounds like a serious read-cancer, orphans, etc-but if it's anything like Marcelo, definitely a worthwhile read.



Under a Red Sky

I'm on pins and needles for this one! Imagine finding out at the age of eight that you are Jewish. Now, imagine that you're the only adored child in a household full of eccentric Holocaust survivors. Now, imagine that you're living in the police state of Communist Romania. While we're waiting for our copies, check out Haya Leah Molnar's website here and see a trailer for Under a Red Sky.

Oh, my goodness, sooooo many great books coming to the library this month. And that's just March! WAIT until you see what we're getting in April!