Oh, so many challenges with the writing of A RIVER OF DUST: THE LIVE-GIVING LINK BETWEEN NORTH AFRICA AND THE AMAZON. I’d never heard of the “river of dust” and was fascinated to learn about this amazing process of nature. In this post, author Jilanne Hoffmann takes us through the process of finding the heart … More Mining for Heart: “Separation and Connection” by Jilanne Hoffmann
Kids love sloths! I love sloths! And I love the bonus of science in language arts lessons. Here’s a science book that’s perfect for teaching language arts—on a topic that students can’t resist. Elizabeth Shreeve shares a flexible, fun “Discovery Tree” activity developed with a STEM teacher especially for busy classrooms. GIVEAWAY! Just leave a … More Especially for Educators: “Using Science to Teach Language Arts” by Elizabeth Shreeve
In anticipation for NF Fest coming up in February, author Lisa Amstutz gives us a peek into the thought processes involved in digging out the heart of science. Thank you, Lisa! Finding the Heart of Science I’ve enjoyed reading the posts here on mining for heart – so many helpful ideas! As a (mostly) science … More Mining for Heart: “Finding the Heart of Science” by Lisa Amstutz
I’m a little slow today for my Perfect Picture Book Friday post, but this book is worth the wait! [And you have 2 more days to get in on the GIVEAWAY in honor of National Library Week and Ben Franklin. See last week’s post and leave a comment for a chance to win.] Title: Volcano … More Volcano Dreams, A Story of Yellowstone
These days, picture books come in all sizes and lengths. There are so many new ones that are longer, meant for upper elementary and middle school aged kids. Yes, picture books are not just for little ones anymore! Yay! Because I think this unique art form is perfect in so many ways—and here’s an example … More Countdown, 2979 Days to the Moon
“I wanted readers to feel like they were in the pilot seat, so I needed the sensory details to make that happen.” … More Mining for Heart: “Put Readers in the Pilot Seat” by Michelle Cusolito
Plunge into the murky depths of the ocean with Flying Deep by Michelle Cusolito. … More Flying Deep
Culture, science, and sustainable farming in a gorgeous picture book! … More Moth and Wasp, Soil and Ocean
Come meet the good, the bad, and the ugly—yes, germs! … More Germs, Fact and Fiction, Friends and Foes
Let’s get this whole metamorphosis process started! … More How to Survive as a Firefly
Beth Anderson, Children's Writer 