Synergy: Artist Ben Shahn

Ben Shahn (1898-1969) was a Lithuanian born, American social realist artist and educator. Through his paintings, murals, prints, photographs, and illustrations, he told the stories of civil rights activists, political protestors, and ordinary people facing injustice.

Read the biographical picture book for youth, then learn more at the websites:

THE PEOPLE’S PAINTER: HOW BEN SHAHN FOUGHT FOR JUSTICE WITH ART written by Cynthia Levinson and illustrated by Evan Turk tells the true story of a boy who escaped injustice and spent his life sharing the stories of others who faced persecution. Notes, a timeline, and resources are useful in learning more about this artist.

The Archives of American Art contains collections, oral histories, and digital reproductions of the work of BEN SHAHAN.

To visit this collection, go to https://s.si.edu/34ytHjt

BEN SHAHN: PASSION FOR JUSTICE is an award-winning PBS documentary telling the story of this socially engaged artist. Told through interviews and examples of his work, excerpts from this documentary would be useful in helping students understand the continued relevance of this artist.

To watch the video, go to https://youtu.be/LFYwcq0veXc

ARC courtesy of Abrams Books for Young Readers.

Timely Take-Aways for Life-Long Learning: Geology

How the Mountains Grew: A New Geological History of North America John Dvorak August 2021 Pegasus Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Themes: Science, Nature, Ecosystems, Geology, Geologic History, Mountains

Tracing the geologic history of Earth, HOW THE MOUNTAINS GREW by John Dvorak skillfully weaves common knowledge and established theories with new research findings. The well-established theory of plate tectonics changed our perception of how our continent was formed. However, recently uncovered evidence demonstrates that scientists are just beginning to understand the complexity of our changing landscapes.

This epic story of the geological history of North America celebrates our rapidly changing knowledge of Earth’s past. Of particular note to Earth Science teachers and geology buffs, this engaging narrative also appeals to readers interested in broader areas of science from astrophysics to climate change. From young adults to seniors, Dvorak’s conversational style will be popular with leisure readers.

Let’s explore seven timely take-aways for life-long learners:

1. In the 1960s, the theory of plate tectonics became widely accepted. However, it was not able to explain the existence of the Black Hills or the diamonds of Arkansas. The intertwining of geology with other traditional and emerging sciences is needed to trace the entire span of geological history.
2. On August 17, 2017, the first gravitational waves were detected in the direction of the constellation Hydra. This confirmed the collision of neutron stars. These collisions are responsible for most of the heavier elements in the universe such as gold and silver. Prior to this discovery, these collisions were purely theoretical.
3. In 2015, the International Commission on Stratigraphy determined that the 4.030 billion year old Acasta Gneiss found in the remote Northwest Territories of Canada represents a major milestone in geologic history marking the beginning of the Archean Eon. It’s considered to be the oldest known rock on Earth.
4. Luis and Walter Alvarez published a paper in 1980 hypothesizing that an extraterrestrial body caused the mass extinction of the dinosaurs. In 2016, a scientific drilling project penetrated the seafloor identifying the Chicxulub impact crater.
5. In geodynamics, delamination is the loss of the lowermost lithosphere from its tectonic plate. Asthenosphere rises to replace the sinking lithosphere. This process causes uplifts and sometimes volcanism playing an important role in the continuing “growth spurt” of mountains such as the Sierra Nevada. Seismic tomography allows geoscientists to generate images from the crust to the core. 5) In 2019, delamination was found through seismic tomography in the Appalachian Mountains.
6. In 2019, a fossilized forest containing palm-like trees was found near Cairo, New York demonstrating that complex forests existed at least as early as 388 million years ago.
7. Although working groups at the major geological societies have not yet recognized the Anthropocene as the current geological epoch, the term as been used informally for a couple decades. The benchmarks for this new epoch include the impact by humans on the natural world. From human-made rock such as concrete and bricks to plastic fragments, human have already made profound changes in the rock record.

Whether helping educators keep up-to-date in their subject-areas, promoting student reading in the content-areas, or simply encouraging nonfiction leisure reading, teacher librarians need to be aware of the best new titles across the curriculum and how to activate life-long learning. - Annette Lamb

Synergy: Animals Using Tools

From birds and fish to insects and cephalopods, mammals including humans aren’t the only animals who use tools for work and play. Animals use tools to achieve specific goals such as grooming, defense, communication, and food gathering. Primates are particularly known for their use of tools in hunting, gathering, shelter, and self-defense.

Read the informational picture book for youth, then learn more at the websites:

ORANGUTAN HATS AND OTHER TOOLS ANIMALS USE by Richard Haynes and illustrated by Stephanie Laberis is an informational picture book sharing the many ingenious ways that creatures use tools for a wide range of activities. The book is divided into chapters exploring tools for hygiene, health, defense, gathering food, comfort, and fun. The author concludes with a useful glossary and index. This well-organized work of nonfiction would be useful to teaching about the parts of an informational book. Use this engaging picture book to jumpstart an inquiry-based experience focusing on an animal and its use of tools.

INCREDIBLE TOOL USE IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM is an online article from the BBC that includes text, images, and video sharing the many ways animals use tools.

To read the article, go to https://bbc.in/3uEsYYq.

THE ANIMAL’S TOOL BOX from the Davidson Institute of Science Education is an online article that defines tool and provides many examples of tool use among animals around the world. Many video examples are embedded.

To read the article, go to https://bit.ly/3fVqyiZ.

ARC courtesy of Candlewick Press.

Synergy: Dark Matter and Vera Rubin

Dark matter is made up of particles that do not emit, reflect, or absorb light. It can’t be seen directly or detected through electromagnetic radiation, so we only know about it through its effect on objects that we can observe.

Vera Rubin (1928-2016) was an American astronomer who provided some of the first scientific evidence of dark matter and expanded our understanding of how galaxies work.

Read the informational picture book for youth, then learn more at the website:

THE STUFF BETWEEN THE STARS is a biographical picture book exploring the life of astronomer Vera Rubin. This inspirational story shares the challenges Rubin had as a woman astronomer along with the process of making her discoveries about dark matter and the universe.

VERA RUBIN AND DARK MATTER is a short article about Rubin and her scientific discoveries from the American Museum of Natural History.

To read the article, go to https://bit.ly/3i5HAgZ.

Open Mind’s VERA RUBIN AND DARK MATTER is an engaging short video exploring her life and work.

To watch the video, go to https://youtu.be/pkrljGUJOPA

DARK MATTER from NASA’s SpacePlace explains the basics of dark matter to children.

To read the article, go to https://go.nasa.gov/3i12AWe.

ARC courtesy of Abrams for Young Readers.

Synergy: The White Rose

The White Rose was a resistance group formed by university students as a form of nonviolent protest in Nazi Germany. The students coordinated a leaflet and graffiti campaign in opposition to Nazi atrocities. In 1943, some members of the group were captured and executed.

Read the recently published graphic novel, then learn more at the websites:

FREIHEIT!: THE WHITE ROSE GRAPHIC NOVEL by Andrea Grosso Ciponte tells the true story of a group of university students who formed a resistance movement known as the White Rose. Before they were caught and executed, they successfully printed and distributed anti-Nazi leaflets exposing atrocities.

This engaging graphic history depicts the daily life of these heroic activists. The story comes alive through muted grey toned watercolor images.

Pair this title with others that explore this little-known activist group. Related titles:
We will not be silent: The White Rose student resistance movement that defied Adolf Hitler by Russell Freedman is a middle grade work of nonfiction.
White Rose by Kip Wilson is a young adult work of historical fiction.

The CENTER FOR WHITE ROSE STUDIES is a website sharing information about this group. It includes FAQs and English translations of some of the original leaflets. To learn more, go to http://white-rose-studies.org/.

ARC courtesy of Plough and Library Thing.

Synergy: Fatherhood Involvement

Fatherhood involvement focuses on the unique bond between a father and child. Children at every stage of development benefit from the involvement of a positive and supporting adult in their life. Regardless of the family structure, strong families and healthy relationships take patience, respect, and communication.

Read the recently published picture book, then learn more at the websites:

DADDY LET’S PLAY written by Rodney Freeman, Jr. and illustrated by Dorothea Taylor weaves together an endearing father-daughter story with relatable, contemporary themes including the pandemic, diversity, and social activism.

Milah and her father play video games together each evening. When her father ends up in the hospital, they figure out a way to stay in contact through their shared passion for gaming.

The brightly colored illustrations paired with the fast-paced text are sure to engage young readers. This accessible title is an effective way to introduce children to the growing number of picture books that represent fatherhood and specifically black dads in a positive light.

FATHERHOOD.GOV is part of the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse supporting strong fathers and families. The website contains tips and hints for dads and kids along with programs and research. The marketing campaign including PSAs reflect ‘#Dadication’ to parenting. A search of the library section reveals dozens of articles focusing specifically on the needs and interests of black fathers.

To visit the website, go to https://www.fatherhood.gov/.

ARC courtesy of Preservation LLC.

Synergy: Women of STEM

Historically, women have been under-represented in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). According to a AAUW report, women make up only 28% of the STEM workforce. Gender gaps are particularly high in computing and engineering. Recent support for STEM education increases the likelihood that more young women may select these careers.

Read the informational book for youth, then learn more at the website:

WONDER WOMEN OF SCIENCE written by Tiera Fletcher and Ginger Rue and illustrated by Sally Wern Comport explores a dozen STEM professionals who have made major contributions to science. Each biography contains a fact box and short narrative with illustrations. Readers learn about the spark that got them started, their eureka moment, note to self, note to you, and words to live by. Each narrative concluded with information about their specializations. The book concludes with a glossary and suggestions for activities and further reading.

THE UNTOLD HISTORY OF WOMEN IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY is a webpage sharing the diverse stories of women across the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. Users can read a short biography, then listen to a SoundCloud podcast that shares their story. To explore this resource, go to https://bit.ly/3wwR89E.

The AAUW’s THE STEM GAP report shares research regarding women in science, technology, engineering and math. To read the report, go to https://bit.ly/3dD729K.

ARC courtesy of Candlewick Press.

Synergy: Estivation

Estivation is the prolonged dormancy of an animal during a hot or dry period. Breathing rate, heart rate, and metabolic rate are slowed to conserve energy. Examples include the North American desert tortoise and the California tiger salamander. These animals seek out a cool, shaded places to wait out the heat. Some animals even burrow in mud or seal themselves in a shell with mucus.

Read the informational picture book for children, then learn more at the websites:

SUMMERTIME SLEEPERS by Melissa Stewart is a picture book examining animals that estivate. While children are likely familiar with hibernation, they may not know about estivation. This beautifully illustrated informational book explores a wide range of creatures from around the world who estivate to avoid hot, dry weather. The author uses a short, main line of text along with blocks of detail about each creature’s approach to estivation. Each two-page layout includes a watercolor along with a sketch of the creature. The book concludes with additional information about animals that estivate.

ASK THE NATURALIST from the Discovery Place compares hibernation, brumation, and estivation. To read the article, go to https://bit.ly/3sWQEr5.

ESTIVATION: HOW MUCUS SAVED MY LIFE from YouTube’s SciShow describes how animals survive in the hottest and driest environments. To view the video, go to https://bit.ly/39KgZ3X.

ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge.

Synergy: National Ocean Month

National Ocean Month is celebrated throughout the month of June. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shares information on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. They encourage the use of the hashtag #30DaysofOcean.

Read the informational book for youth, then learn more at the website:

BENEATH THE WAVES by Stephanie Warren Drimmer celebrates the ocean through pictures, poems, and stories. The book is divided into eleven themes such as reef life, ocean forests, and life on the icy edge. Readers explore these themes through short narratives, poems, fact boxes, and stunning photography. Select passages from the book as part of your National Ocean Month celebration.

The NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE website provides a curated list of ocean topics including information about the annual National Ocean Month activities.
To visit the website, go to https://bit.ly/39PuT4X

ARC courtesy of National Geographic Kids.

Synergy: Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a celebration commemorating the histories and cultures of Native American peoples. In the United States, it is celebrated the second Monday in October.

Read the informational picture book for children, then learn more at the website:

WE ARE STILL HERE! NATIVE AMERICAN TRUTHS EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW written by Traci Sorell and illustrated by Frané Lessac uses the context of classroom presentations for Indigenous Peoples’ Day to share key concepts related to the history of indigenous people in the United States. Topics such as assimilation, allotment, termination, activism, self-determination, and sovereign resurgence are shared in easy-to-understand text and colorful illustrations. The book concludes with additional information, a timeline, glossary, sources, and an author’s note.

The Smithsonian’s NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN INDIAN website provides access to online resources and the Native Knowledge 360° project. To explore the resources, go to https://americanindian.si.edu/.

ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge.

Synergy: Spiders

Spiders are six-legged, air-breathing arthropods. The largest order of arachnids, most have fangs that inject venom and spinnerets that spin silk. Other than Antarctica, spiders are found throughout the world.

Read the science poetry book for children, then learn more at the websites:

SPI-KU: A CLUTTER OF SHORT VERSE ON EIGHT LEGS written by Leslie Bulion and illustrated by Robert Meganck combines poetry and science for an engaging exploration of spiders. This richly illustrated work contained over a dozen, two-page explorations of these fascinating arthropods. Each spread focuses on a different topic and includes poem(s) along with useful information and realistic illustrations. Haiku, tanka, doditsu, and cinquain are just a few of the poetic forms used in the text. The book concludes with a glossary, notes about poetic form, activities, and additional information.

Use the following websites to jumpstart spider poetry writing ideas.

SPIDERS from Cornell University provide learning resources about spider biology. To learn more, go to https://blogs.cornell.edu/spiders/.

SPIDERS: SILK AND FANGS from San Diego Zoo Kids is an attractive infographic introducing students to spiders. To view the infographic, go to https://bit.ly/3cPuuBx. To read a more in-depth page, go to https://bit.ly/2OsqSMu.

ARC courtesy of Peachtree.

Synergy: Veterinarian

A veterinarian is a professional who treats the diseases, injuries, and disorders of non-human animals. Many veterinary physicians work with a specific group of animals such as livestock, pets, zoo animals, or wild animals. There are many specializations within veterinary medicine such as animal welfare, surgery, and dentistry.

Read the nonfiction book for youth, then learn more at the websites:

WILD VET ADVENTURES: SAVING ANIMALS AROUND THE WORLD with Dr. Gabby Wild follows a wildlife veterinarian as she cares for animals around the world. As readers explore each continent, they learn about the wildlife and the people who co-exist in each ecosystem. In each section, readers learn about veterinary patients including animal anatomy, habitats, and the dangers they face from predators and people. The book concludes with information about conservation and a glossary. The use of icons, fact boxes, bright colors, and photographs are likely to engage even the most reluctant reader.

WILDLIFE REHABILITATION from the Wildlife Medical Clinic at the University of Illinois teaches teens about veterinary care, education, and conservation. To learn more, go to https://bit.ly/31LHnGx.

Author DR. GABBY WILD has a website and YouTube Channel. The web-based resources share her role as both a veterinarian and eco-fashionista. To learn more, go to https://gabbywild.org/. Visit her YouTube Channel at https://bit.ly/3a2lFmf.

ARC courtesy of National Geographic Kids.

Synergy: Fungi

Fungi such as mushrooms, yeasts, and molds are living microorganisms. Part of the eukaryotic kingdom, they aren’t plants, bacteria, or animals. However, like animals they acquire food through absorption rather than photosynthesis. These important decomposers can be found worldwide but are often overlooked because they are so small. They play an important role in medicine, foods, and pest control.

Read the middle grade nonfiction book for youth, then learn more at the websites:

FUNGARIUM curated by Katie Scott and Ester Gaya is the latest in the WELCOME TO THE MUSEUM SERIES. Readers are invited into the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, London, England to learn about these essential living organisms. The book is divided into four galleries exploring biology, diversity, interactions, and human connections. Each topic is presented in a two-page spread containing text along with detailed images.

Other books in the series include Planetarium, Dinosaurium, Botanicum, Historium, and Animalium. Each oversized book allows children to explore the world’s most amazing museum exhibitions.

THE STATE OF THE WORLD’S FUNGI from the Kew Royal Botanic Gardens is a story map sharing information about the world’s fungi and their importance to life on Earth. To read the report, go to https://stateoftheworldsfungi.org/

The BRITISH LICHEN SOCIETY website contains resources for identification of lichens along with lots of activity ideas. To learn more, go to https://www.britishlichensociety.org.uk/

The FIFTH KINGDOM is an online mycology textbook containing lots of fascinating photographs and diagrams. To read the e-book, go to http://mycolog.com/fifthtoc.html

FUNGI: DEATH BECOMES THEM from CrashCourse is a short, engaging video helping students learn the basics of fungi and their vital function in the global food web. To view the video, go to https://bit.ly/2OqoPbK

ARC courtesy of Big Picture Press an imprint of Candlewick Press.

Synergy: OPERATION VALKYRIE

OPERATION VALKYRIE was a German World War II emergency plan modified by a secret network of officers and civilians to assassinate Adolph Hitler and retake control of Germany. The failure of the coup caused serious repercussions for the families of the resistance leaders.

Read the recently nonfiction work for youth, then learn more at the websites:

ENSNARING IN THE WOLF’S LAIR by Ann Bausum tells the true story of the 1944 plot to kill Adolf Hitler and the ghost children of this revenge. This well-research children’s book uses a compelling narrative along with primary source documents to engage readers in the devastating aftermath of Operation Valkyrie. After the failed assassination attempt, Hitler relentlessly sought revenge on the children and relatives of a secretive network of Germans who were conspiring against Hitler’s regime. Weaving in excerpts from the diary of Christa von Hofacker and other accounts, the story comes alive through the trauma of the children of the resistance. The book concludes with a helpful timeline, family information, list of resources, and author’s note.

THE GERMAN RESISTANCE MEMORIAL CENTER contains primary source documents, biographies, and exhibitions related to the German Resistance. To visit the website, go to https://www.gdw-berlin.de/en/home/.

INTRODUCING THE WARTIME DIARY OF CHRISTA VON HOFACKER shares an interview with the author about her connection to Christa’s diary that inspired the book. To view the video, go to https://bit.ly/31P39co.

ANN BAUSUM’s website contains behind-the-scenes information and classroom activities. To explore the website, go to https://bit.ly/3mkjsrb.

ARC courtesy of National Geographic.

Synergy: School Band

A school band is a team of student musicians who learn to play musical instruments, rehearse as a group, and perform together. They are usually part of the school’s music education program. Many stereotypes have emerged around school band members. However, many students have embraced terms such as band nerd as symbols of pride.

Read the recently published series for youth, then learn more at the websites:

BAND NERDS: POETRY FROM THE 13TH CHAIR TROMBONE PLAYER by DJ Corchin contains dozens of humorous poems and illustrations to inspire those with a passion for school bands and their unique culture. Part of a series of books exploring the world of school bands, young musicians are likely to see themselves and enjoy celebrating the life of band nerds.

THE 13TH CHAIR is a website dedicated to the Band Nerds book series. It includes information about the series, a blog, and excerpts from the books. To visit the website, go to https://www.the13thchair.com/.

NAMM FOUNDATION celebrates and promotes music education. Sections for parents and educators highlight the benefits of music education, music communities, and resources. To learn more, go to https://www.nammfoundation.org/.

ARC courtesy of Sourcebooks eXplore.

Synergy: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. The monument is dedicated to United States service members whose remains have not been identified. Approved by Congress in 1921, the monument has been expanded to include unknown soldiers since World War I. The sentinels are U.S. Army soldiers who follow a precise route involving a series of 21 steps.

Read the recently published picture book for children, then learn more at the websites:

TWENTY-ONE STEPS by Jeff Gottesfeld and illustrated by Matt Tavares is a picture book sharing the story of guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The book begins with The Sentinel’s Creed. Then, traces the history through the voice of the “unknown”. An afterward provides additional background information.

The ARLINGTON CEMETERY website contains background information about the creation of the tomb along with the changing of the guard. To explore the website, go to https://bit.ly/3cT7KAo.

VOICES FROM THE TOMB is a behind-the-scenes documentary examining Tomb Guards at Arlington National Cemetery. To view the video, go to https://bit.ly/3mnV2x2

CHANGING OF THE GUARD is a short video showing the changing of the guard ceremony. To view the video, go to https://bit.ly/3cSWELU

ARC courtesy of Candlewick Press.

Synergy: Grand Prix Racing

Grand Prix racing is a motorsport competition that began at the turn of the 20th century in France. Today, it’s known as formula racing.

Read the recently published books, then learn more at the websites:

THE RACERS by Neal Bascomb is a young readers’ adaptation of the adult title FASTER. It tells the true story of how an outcast driver, an American heiress, and a legendary car beat Hitler’s best. The combination of fascinating characters, world history, and racing will appeal to a broad audience. This well-research title incorporates historical photos, maps, and detailed race information. Teens with an interest in racing may prefer to read the adult edition.

To learn more about Rene Dreyfus, go to https://bit.ly/3j0YMCX.

To learn more about Lucy O’Reilly-Schell, go to https://bit.ly/2YtvZNO

To watch a video from the 1938 Grand Prix de Pau, got to https://youtu.be/LgiYUlEcTlE.

To watch a discussion with the author, go to https://youtu.be/5wUXihroUEk.

ARC courtesy of Focus, an imprint of Scholastic.

Synergy: Tulsa Race Massacre

On May 31 and June 1 1921, a mob of armed, white people attacked homes, looted businesses, and burned the African American community of Greenwood Oklahoma. As many as three hundred black people were killed and thousands were left homeless. The police did nothing to protect the community and the incident was suppressed until recently.

Read the recently published picture book for youth, then learn more at the website:

UNSPEAKABLE written by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Floyd Cooper retells the true story of the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921. Using easy to understand text and engaging illustrations, the story takes readers on a journey before, during, and after the tragic event. An author’s note provides additional information and historical photos.

The CENTER FOR RECONCILIATION website provides a virtual tour including text, images, and videos telling the story of the people, place, and massacre. A Curriculum Resource section provides survivor portraits, stories, historical photos, and learning resources.

To learn more, go to https://www.jhfcenter.org/.

To view photos from the Tulsa Historical Society and Museum, go to https://bit.ly/39x68L8

ARC courtesy of Learner Publishing Group.

Synergy: Ely S. Parker

Ely Samuel Parker (1828-1895) was born to a prominent Seneca family. He was a sachem, interpreter, civil engineer, Civil War general, and the Commissioner of Indian Affairs. He may be best known for helping to draft the surrender documents at Appomattox Courthouse. At that time, he was both the highest ranking Native American in the Union Army and the Grand Sachem of the Iroquois Confederacy.

Read the recently published biography for youth, then learn more at the websites:

ONE REAL AMERICAN: THE LIFE OF ELY S. PARKER by Joseph Bruchac tells to story of a 19th century Native American who made significant contributions in both tribal and federal government. The author weaves historical photographs and other primary resources into this well-researched narrative. Through short, engaging chapters, readers learn about Parker’s challenges and accomplishments. The back matter includes a useful timeline.

ONE REAL AMERICAN from the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage Historic Site is a video featuring storyteller and author Joseph Bruchac who shares insights into Ely Parker’s life as well as Parker’s relationship with Grant.

To watch the video, go to https://youtu.be/sP7_M1pHWbc.

ELY PARKER: A REAL AMERICAN from the Appomattox Courthouse National Historic Park website provides links to primary sources associated with Parker including sketches, letters, and books.

To learn more, go to https://bit.ly/2NLSmfi.

ARC courtesy of Abrams Books for Young Readers.