Synergy: Mountaineering

From climbing indoor walls to ascending the world’s highest peaks, mountaineering is a sport involving climbing and bouldering in mountains. Hazards include falling, avalanches, bad weather, and altitude sickness.

Read the recently published nonfiction book, then learn more at the website:

INTO THE CLOUDS by Tod Olson tells the thrilling and tragic stories of three expeditions to K2. This engaging work of nonfiction includes the incredible experiences of Charlie Houston and a team of climbers attempting to conquer K2 in 1953. The fast-paced text includes maps and historical photos.

The AMERICAN ALPINE CLUB documents successes, failures, and mishaps associated with mountain climbing. The KNOW THE ROPES section of their website provides websites and articles related to safe climbing.

To visit the website, go to https://bit.ly/2IuPBwb

ARC courtesy of National Geographic.

Synergy: Underground Railroad

Underground Railroad was the term used to describe a network of people and places used by slaves in the American South in search of freedom in the Northern United States and Canada. William Still is sometimes referred to as the father of the Underground Railroad. In addition to being a conductor, he also recorded the personal accounts of fugitive slaves escaping through Philadelphia.

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

WILLIAM STILL AND HIS FREEDOM STORIES: THE FATHER OF THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD by Don Tate is a picture book biography exploring the life of William Still who helped hundreds of slaves escape to freedom. The story concludes with a timeline and author’s note.

UNCOVERING WILLIAM STILL’S UNDERGROUND RAILROAD is a digital history project that includes Still’s journal and original records.

To view the digital collection, go to https://bit.ly/2K6Y35P.

UNDERGROUND RAILROAD: THE WILLIAM STILL STORY tells the story of William Still’s experiences as an abolitionist. Teachers may wish use excerpts from this hour long documentary.

To view the documentary, go to https://to.pbs.org/3kmn2OF.

DISCOVERING THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD from the National Park Service is a Junior Ranger Activity Book available online.

To download the PDF, go to https://bit.ly/3luJM0y.

ARC courtesy of Peachtree.

Synergy: Kent State Shootings

On May 4, 1970, four unarmed college students were killed and nine injured during a peaceful rally. National Guard soldiers fired on participants at the anti-Vietnam War gathering. The massacre trigger public outrage causing the largest student strike in history with millions of students participating. Although a Commission report concluded that the shootings were unjustified, no one was convicted in the shootings.

Read the recently published young adult books, then learn more at the website:

KENT STATE by Deborah Wiles is a work of historical fiction telling the story of the May 4, 1970 incident through multiple voices and vantage points.

KENT STATE: FOUR DEAD IN OHIO by Derf Backderf is a graphic history exploring the lives of the four young people who died and the events leading up to the May 4th tragedy.

KENT STATE SHOOTINGS is a digital collection from Kent State University’s Special Collections and Archives. The May 4 Collection includes an array of primary sources related to the tragedy and its aftermath including an oral history project, digital archive, and information packet.

To visit the digital collection, go to https://bit.ly/3ngaHO7.

ARC courtesy of Scholastic and Abrams.

Synergy: Simple Machines

A simple machine is a device containing few or no moving parts that makes work easy. A lever, pulley, inclined plane, wedge, screw, and wheel and axle are classic examples. These mechanical devices use changes in direction or magnitudes of force to do perform a task.

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

NEWTON AND CURIE: THE SCIENCE SQUIRRELS by Daniel Kirk features two STEAM loving squirrels who use their knowledge of simple machines to solve real-world problems.

GENERATION GENIUS is a K-8 teaching resource that pairs educational videos with science standards aligned lessons and activities. For instance, their Simple Machines video is accompanied by discussion questions, vocabulary, reading material, activities, lesson plan, teacher guide, and assessment. Limited access is available without a subscription.

To visit Generation Genius, go to https://bit.ly/35iSVUj.

ARC courtesy of Abrams.

Synergy: Ableism

Ableism is discrimination and prejudice against people who are perceived to have disabilities. This includes stereotypes that characterize an individual or group as inferior to those without the ability, skill, or characteristic. For instance, while some people perceive deafness as a barrier, others do not.

Read the recently published work of historical fiction for youth, then learn more at the website:

SHOW ME A SIGN by Ann Clare LeZotte tells the story of a young girl living on Martha’s Vineyard in the 19th century. Like some other English settlers who live on the island, Mary is deaf and communicates with her friends and family using sign language. When a scientist kidnaps Mary as a test subject in his quest to find the cause for what he calls her “infirmity”, she must find her way home.

Pair this work of historical fiction with the recently published “super powered edition” of the Newbery Honor Book graphic memoir El Deaf by Cece Bell.

HISTORY THROUGH DEAF EYES is a web-based project from Gallaudet University. The project includes an online exhibition, documentary, and educational resources. The project explores 200 years of Deaf culture in America and examines perspectives on what it means to be deaf.

To learn more, go to https://gallaudet.edu/history-through-deaf-eyes.

ARC courtesy of Scholastic.

Synergy: Decimal System

The Decimal System is a numeral system for denoting integers and non-integer numbers. Decimals are sometimes identified by a decimal separator known as a decimal point like 3.14.

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

SIR CUMFERENCE GETS DECIMA’S POINT by Cindy Neuschwander is the latest book the popular Sir Cumference series exploring mathematics concepts. Set in a fictional medieval kingdom, this historical adventure introduces children to the decimal system through an engaging story featuring a baker and a family of ogres.

KHAN ACADEMY is known for their short videos with accompanying lessons. The math section provides a series of lessons for each grade level such as an introduction to decimals.

Khan Academy https://www.khanacademy.org/math

ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge Publishing.

Synergy: Animals

Animals come in all shapes and sizes. In general, they consume organic matter, breathe oxygen, move, and reproduce. Zoology is the study of animals.

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

Each book in the SO COOL, SO CUTE series from National Geographic kids features a fascinating animal such as pandas, koalas, sharks, and leopards. The latest books in the series include frogs and penguins. Designed for ages 3 through 7, these short information books include photographs along with quirky fonts, child-like graphics, and humorous, informative text designed for their young audience. Although filled with useful content, their informal style will attract children seeking a little fun with their facts.

The SAN DIEGO ZOO KIDS website is geared specifically for the needs and interests of children. Users can explore by animal (amphibians, arthropods, bird, fish, mammals, reptiles), stories, fun facts, wildlife conservation, videos, activities, games, and zoo life. Each entry includes limited text, photographs or video, and engaging content. For more in-depth information, students are directed to the San Diego Zoo’s Animals & Plants website.

To visit San Diego Zoo Kids, go to https://kids.sandiegozoo.org/.
To visit San Diego Zoo’s Animals & Planets, go to https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/.

ARC courtesy of National Geographic Kids

Synergy: Atlas

An atlas is a collection of maps representing the Earth or a particular region. Traditionally, they were bound into large books. However, today’s interactive atlas allow users to view features such as political boundaries or geographic elements through transparent layers.

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

National Geographic Kids has recently published new editions of their popular atlases.

BEGINNER’S UNITED STATES ATLAS (third edition) is an effective way to introduce atlases to children ages 7 to 10. The book begins with an introduction to maps. The attractive format uses maps and photographs to explore the land and its people. Icons are used to highlight key features. Divided into regions (northwest, southeast, midwest, southwest, west, U.S. territories), the atlas explores each state in a two-page spread. It concludes with a review, glossary, and charts.

UNITED STATES ATLAS (sixth edition) is designed for ages 10 to 14. Like the beginner’s version, it is organized by region and highlights each state. The maps are more detailed and the text provides a more in-depth examination of each state than the beginner edition.

National Geographic Kids also publishes world atlases for a variety of age levels.

MAPMAKER INTERACTIVE from National Geographic allows users to explore locations around the world through the use of a base map and layers. Students begin with a base layer such as streets, terrain, topo, or satellite. Then, they can add layers such as water, human population, climate, and history to explore an area in depth. Finally, users can use the tools provided to personalize, save, and print their map.

To visit the website, go to https://mapmaker.nationalgeographic.org/.

ARC courtesy of National Geographic Kids.

Synergy: The Dené Nation

Also known as the Athapaskan people, the Dené Nation is a group of five indigenous tribes located in the Northwest Territories of Canada. Sustained by the land for over 30,000 years, the political organization represents the land claims and protection of Aboriginal rights. Their homeland stretches from the Yukon and Alaska to the southwestern United States.

Read the recently published graphic nonfiction, then learn more at the website:

PAYING THE LAND by Joe Sacco is set in the subarctic Canadian Northwest Territories where the indigenous Dene people have lived for more than 30,000 years. This work of graphic nonfiction explores the impact of resource extraction on the natural world and the indigenous people who live in the Mackenzie River Valley. Sacco recounts the costs and benefits development has had on the land and its people.

The DENE NATION website features a history page that provides insights into history of the Dene Nation. The page includes both recent history along with a timeline of key events.

To visit the Dene Nation page, go to https://denenation.com/about/history/

To visit the Dene Nation History page, go to https://denenation.com/about/history/

Synergy: Everyday Science

Everyday science connects children with the natural world and advances in technology through stories and activities that spark curiosity and discovery. Hands-on experiences, explorations and experiments bring a child’s surroundings to life.

LET’S FLY A PLANE! and LET’S RIDE A WAVE! by Chris Ferrie are the latest two books in the EVERYDAY SCIENCE ACADEMY SERIES. Each book features Red Kangaroo and his friend Dr. Chris as they explore science questions. The engaging narrative highlights key vocabulary and incorporates everyday experiences into the scientific explanations. Each book concludes with a glossary, questions, and hands-on experiments. The topics in this series align with the STEM curriculum.

The NASA STEM @ HOME RESOURCE is a new website focusing on a wide range of activities that families can do together at home. Divided by grade level (K-4, 5-8, 9-12), the project also includes sections specifically focused on students working from home with resources such as e-books, family activities, virtual tours, and podcasts that “bring the universe into your home”. The Aeronautics @Home section is just one example of how the Everyday Science Academy Series books easily connect with the NASA resources.

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

ARC courtesy of Sourcebooks.

Synergy: 1789

The year 1789 is a landmark year around the world including the start of the French Revolution. In the US, George Washington was elected the first President of the United States in February. The first Congress met in March to declare the Constitution in placed in effect and the beginning of the United States.

Read the recently published middle grades book, then learn more at the website:

1789: TWELVE AUTHORS EXPLORE A YEAR OF REBELLION, REVOLUTION, AND CHANGE by Marc Aronson and Susan Campbell Bartoletti is an anthology featuring a dozen narratives written by award-winning nonfiction authors. While some focus on rights and freedoms in the US, others explore issues of enslavement, change, and struggles from around the world.

Wikipedia’s timeline pages provide a useful starting point for exploring key years both in the United States and around the world.

Visit the global 1789 website at https://bit.ly/3bvJPop
Visit the US 1789 website at https://bit.ly/334lwdk

ARC courtesy of Candlewick.

Synergy: Principles of Tolerance

In its Declaration of Principles on Tolerance, UNESCO defines tolerance as “respect, acceptance and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world’s cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human. It is fostered by knowledge, openness, communication, and freedom of thought, conscience and belief. Tolerance is harmony in difference.”

Read the recently published children's picture book, then learn more at the website:

FOR BEAUTIFUL BLACK BOYS WHO BELIEVE IN A BETTER WORLD by Michael W. Waters and Keisha Morris tells the inspirational story of a boy growing up in a world of racism and gun violence who learns the importance of hope and activism. This timely, honest picture book includes a discussion guide to jump-start conversations about respect, nonviolence activism, and diversity.

The TEACHING TOLERANCE website helps parents and educators start difficult conversations about topics such as racism and violence.

Visit the Teaching Tolerance website at https://www.tolerance.org/.
Visit the UNESCO website at https://bit.ly/3lUZ6UI.

ARC courtesy of Flyaway Books.

Synergy: Visualizing Poetry

Visualizing poetry involves analyzing the language, structure, mood, and theme of a poem, then creating a visual connection through drawing, watercolor, paint or other visual medium. Or, creating a mental image. Comics poetry blends aspects of comics and poetry.

Read the recently published children's book, then learn more at the website:

POEMS TO SEE BY: A COMIC ARTIST INTERPRETS GREAT POETRY by Julian Peters is an anthology of classic poems presented for a new generation of readers through a rich variety of visuals. Exploring twenty-four English-language poets, the book examines six themes: seeing yourself, others, art, nature, time, and death.

COMICS AS POETRY is an online article by Ivan Brunetti (January 30, 2020) that explores the connection between comics and poetry.

Read the article at https://bit.ly/2F6MJ72

ARC courtesy of Plough Publishing.

Synergy: California Gold Rush

The California Gold Rush (1848-1855) began when gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill. The news of gold brought more than 300,000 people seeking their fortune. While some “forty-niners” found gold, others were more successful in selling supplies and goods to miners.

Read the recently published children's book, then learn more at the website:

GOLD RUSH GIRL by Avi tells the story of a young girl’s adventures on the high seas and the gold fields of 1848 California. Set during the Gold Rush, this middle grade novel successfully weaves in elements of historical events in San Francisco during this period.

THE GOLD RUSH ERA, 1848-1865 from Calisphere: University of California contains six digital exhibitions related to the time period. Topics include murder and mayhem, disasters, everyday life and people, environmental impact, the growth of cities, and diversity in the changing state.

To visit the digital collection, go to https://bit.ly/2R0UeiF.

ARC courtesy of Candlewick Press.

Synergy: Biomimicry

Biomimicry applies models from nature to human problems in areas such as energy, agriculture, architecture, medicine, transportation and more.

Read the recently published children's book, then learn more at the website:

BEASTLY BIONICS by Jennifer Swanson explores how nature inspires a wide range of inventions and technologies. From the night vision of cats and shape of a bird's beak to the skin of frogs, this fascinating work of nonfiction explores dozens of examples in the areas of solutions, helpers, energy, and healers. It concludes with a glossary and resources.

The BIOMIMICRY INSTITUTE develops tools that apply nature-inspired strategies to design and innovation. Examples of biomimicry in a variety of fields are highlighted. The website also includes information about over 1800 applications of biomimicry and provides lessons and challenges for youth.

To learn more, go to https://biomimicry.org/

ARC courtesy of National Geographic Kids.

Synergy: Trapezoid

A trapezoid is a shape with two parallel sides. The parallel sides are called bases, while the other two sides are the legs. The term trapezoidal is used when describing the shape of some creatures.

Read the recently published children's picture book, then learn more at the website:

A TRAPEZOID IS NOT A DINOSAUR written and illustrated by Suzanne Morris teaches children about shapes within the context of a play audition. The trapezoid must convince the other shapes that it deserves a place in the Shapes in Space show. This adorable story is a fun and effective way to kick off a lesson about trapezoids.

MONSTER MANSION SHAPE MATCH from ABCya is an educational game that provides practice in identifying 2D and 3D shapes including the triangle, sphere, trapezoid, cube, hexagon, crescent, cylinder, cone, heart, rhombus, half circle, circle, oval, octagon, star, pyramid, rectangle, parallelogram, square, and quarter circle.

To play the game, go to https://www.abcya.com/games/shape_match

ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge.

Synergy: Animal Communication

Animal communication is the transformation of information from one animal to another. This connection between sender and receiver can be intentional or a natural reaction.

Read the recently published adult work of nonfiction with young adult cross-over interest. Then, learn more at the website.

OUR WILD CALLING: HOW CONNECTING WITH ANIMALS CAN TRANSFORM OUR LIVES - AND SAVE THEIRS by Richard Louv immerses readers in a text that connects humans with the natural world. Louv is effective in helping readers rethink their connection with animals and the natural world. Told through interviews providing a wide range of perspectives, Louv demonstrates the need for compassionate conservation practices that consider the needs of both humans and animals.

THE ANIMAL COMMUNICATION PROJECT is an online version of an interactive text. The project focuses on the science of animal communication and is divided into sections on cephalopods, insects and spiders, fish and frogs, and birds and mammals. Some sections incorporate visuals, audio and video elements.

To explore the website, go to https://acp.eugraph.com/.

ARC courtesy of Algonquin Books.

Synergy: Radium

Radium is a highly radioactive element discovered by Marie and Pierre Curie in 1898. Because of its luminous qualities, it was used in painting watch dials so they would glow in the dark. Unfortunately, many factory workers were harmed by this metal.

Read the recently published young reader's edition, then learn more at the websites:

THE RADIUM GIRLS by Kate Moore is a young reader's edition of the best-seller exploring the true stories of everyday young women who fought for labor regulations, advanced science, and saved lives in the early 20th century. Divided into three sections focusing on knowledge, power, and justice, the book weaves in less-known stories and primary sources. It concludes with a glossary, timeline, photos, and additional resources.

The book's website contains additional information about the individual women featured in the book along with other information.

To learn more, go to http://theradiumgirls.com/.

ARC courtesy of Sourcebooks Explore.

Synergy: Pet Training

Whether training a dog to sit or teaching a cat to roll over, pet training involves teaching an animal to react to specific conditions. Most trainers use reinforcement such as a food treat to increase a behavior or punishment such a squirt of water to eliminate an undesirable behavior.

Read the recently published children's book series, then learn more at the websites:

National Geographic Kid’s TRAINING GUIDES series encourages readers to get to know their pets. FETCH! by Aubre Andrus and Gary Weitzman and POUNCE! by Tracey West and Gary Weitzman help children train their dog or cat.

YouTube pet training videos can supplement the experience. For instance, Zak George's Dog Training Revolution has nearly 3 million subscribers and Cat School has 10 million subscribers.

To learn more go to https://www.youtube.com/c/zakgeorge

For cat training, go to the CAT SCHOOL YouTube channel at https://bit.ly/30qi7W8

ARC courtesy of National Geographic Kids.

Synergy: Feathers

Feathers are appendages that form an outer covering on vertebrates. They provide birds with waterproofing and thermal insulation along with aiding in flight. Feather coloration helps birds communicate and can also provide protection.

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

LALI’S FEATHER by Farhana Zia tells the charming story of a child who finds a feather and shows her bird friends all its uses. Set in India, this universal story is both inspirational and imaginative.

ALL ABOUT FEATHERS is an interactive learning experience from The Cornell Lab. Users learn about how feathers are built, what feathers do, and the role of feathers through time. Readers even meet a feather scientist.

To learn more, go https://bit.ly/3jeApRN.

ARC courtesy of Peachtree.

Synergy: Amphibians

From frogs and toads to salamanders and caecilians, amphibians are found around the world. However, they require specific moisture and temperature conditions. They are vertebrates who typically start out as larvae living in water, but become air-breathing as adults. They’re often used as ecological indicators and have experienced a dramatic decline around the globe.

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

AMPHIBIAN ACROBATS written by Leslie Bulion provides an engaging combination of poetry with scientific facts. Featuring twenty poems, each two-page layout includes an illustrated poem along with background information about frogs, salamanders, or caecilians. The book concludes with a glossary, notes about each poem’s form, a world map, and an illustration comparing the size of amphibians.

AmphibiaWeb includes over eight thousand amphibian species and provides a searchable database, educational resources, and information about amphibian declines. Involve youth in learning about a creature and writing their own poems.

To learn more, go to https://amphibiaweb.org/.

ARC courtesy of Peachtree.

Synergy: Moviemaking

Also known as filmmaking, moviemaking is the process of making a film for theatrical release. The production process includes development, pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution.

Read the recently published book series, then learn more at the website:

THE MOVIEMAKING MAGIC OF STAR WARS is a nonfiction series focusing on the process of moviemaking. Each book uses interviews, photographs, original artwork, and behind-the-scenes stories to engage readers. In addition, accordion folds and interactive folds add an addition layer of fun. CREATURES + ALIENS and SHIPS & BATTLES are the first two books in this highly illustrated series.

The STAR WARS DATABANK is part of the official movie series website. Users can browse for information by character, creature, droid, location, organization, species, vehicle, weapon, technology, and more.

To learn more, go to https://www.starwars.com/databank

ARC courtesy of Abrams Books for Young Readers.

Synergy: Voter Suppression

Voter suppression is a strategy used to discourage or prevent individuals and/or entire groups from voting. Intended to influence the outcome of an election, tactics include both mental and physical intimidation. Voter suppression is illegal, but it still occurs in the United States and around the world.

Read the recently published young adult adaptation, then learn more at the website:

ONE PERSON, NO VOTE by Carol Anderson is a young adult adaptation of the award-winning adult work of nonfiction. The author explores how voter suppression negatively impacts democracy. It is divided into five parts representing themes such as as voter ID and voter rolls. Within each section, chapters explore specific historical and contemporary examples. The book concludes with discussion questions, ways to get involved, and notes.

11 BARRIERS TO VOTING from the Carnegie Corporation is a web-based project describing the most common approaches to voter suppression. For more in-depth information, readers can explore the full-report and learn how to advocate for voting rights.

To learn more, go to https://bit.ly/3gYvG4F.

ARC courtesy of Bloomsbury.

Synergy: First Names

From Malala to Amelia, many famous individuals are known by their first name. Over the past 100 years, James and Mary are the most popular names. However during the past decade, Noah and Emma have been number one. Often called a “given name”, a first name identifies an individual person while a surname generally identifies a family.

Read the recently published children's biography series, then learn more at the website:

The FIRST NAMES biography series are highly illustrated nonfiction books featuring well known people from the past and present. Middle grade readers already know many of these well-known people by their first names. These works of narrative nonfiction feature short chapters that highlight key events and ideas in the person’s life. Most books end with a glossary and timeline. Their use of mini-comics and humor are likely to engage reluctant readers. The series kicks off with Harry Houdini and Amelia Earhart, followed by Malala Yousafazai, Ada Lovelace, and Ferdinand Magellan.

GET READY FOR BABY from the Social Security Administration features the top baby names of each year along with baby names by decade, state, and territories. It also explore changes in popularity of names over time. Use this website to kickstart an exploration of famous people and their names.

To learn more, go to https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/

ARC courtesy of Abrams Books for Young Readers.

Synergy: Women’s Sports

Women’s sports have existed for centuries. However in the early 20th century, societal shifts began to make female participation more acceptable in mainstream society.

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

BREAKING THROUGH by Sue Macy explores how female athletes shattered stereotypes in the roaring twenties. After an introduction, Macy takes readers through the 1920s as women seek opportunities and recognition in athletics. Through photographs, biographical sketches, and primary source documents, readers examine specific examples of women took action to achieve change for themselves and others.

GETTING INTO THE GAMES is an online article from the National Women’s History Museum exploring women’s achievements in sports and the Olympic Games. This highly visual slide show examines different aspects of women’s athletics in the 20th century.

Getting into the Games
https://bit.ly/3dkXK0V

ARC courtesy of National Geographic.

Synergy: Body Image

Body image is a person’s perception of their own body. These feelings are impacted by other personal and environmental issues. Possessing a positive body image is important in healthy individuals.

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

THE (OTHER) F WORD: A CELEBRATION OF THE FAT AND FIERCE edited by Angie Manfredi is an anthology of prose, poetry, and art celebrating body image. Each work in the collection explores a different aspect of body image acceptance. Designed for people of all sizes, the book encourages confidence and courage.

The JED FOUNDATION YouTube channel features videos that promote emotional health and positive body image. Of particular note is an interview with model and positive body activist Hunter McGrady sharing her experiences and what she wished she’d known when she was 16.

JED Foundation https://bit.ly/2XjMNXz
Hunter McGrady https://bit.ly/2MiKgGQ

ARC courtesy of Amulet Books.