Bite of the Mango- Mariatu Kamara with Susan McLelland

September 7th, 2009  Tagged

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Although I read this last year, Bite of the Mango is not a book you would readily forget. A powerful and true story of a 12 year old girl who was faced with an attack of terrorists who brutally raped her and cut off both hands. I think for most of us, that would be the end of the story, but Mariatu is a young woman of great courage. This story chronicles her steps to regain her health, her freedom and hope. Today she attends university in Toronto and tours to tell of her experiences. This memoir would be excellent to include in the study of various cultures around the world.

www.mariatufoundation.com will tell you more of her work in Sierra leone today.

Jurassic Poop- Jacob Berkowitz

September 28th, 2007

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I have used Bev’s great idea for Crazy About Canada and am trying it for Jurassic Poop. This non-fiction book is sure to capture the attention of readers; probably our boys in particular. In looking at this topic in a scientific but humorous manner, many little known facts about “poop” are explored.  Some of the headings themselves are just worth reading: Who Dung It? When was it pooped? Teaxan Turd Treasure. Dried Doo-Doo.

The grade 4/5 class that I booktalked this with really chuckled as I broached this topic. Catching their interest is important- now it will be interesting to see how many of them follow through and read it.

    I Love Kids’ Books
    I have the privilege of being a teacher-librarian in 2 elementary schools. That means I have the best of all worlds; I teach and work with children from Kindergarten through grade 8; my job encompasses the management of the libraries as well as developing the collections. And my homework? Reading and more reading! What more could a life-long bookworm ask for? The point of this blog is mainly for my own use- to make myself some notes about some of the many books I read- to prompt my failing memory, to use as the basis for book-talks or newsletter inserts and to provide information for others that may be interested. These will not be formal or lengthy- but just some of my thoughts.
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