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.

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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.

Synergy: Aztec Mythology

 

Aztec mythology is a collection of stories rooted in the Aztec civilization of central Mexico. This Mesoamerican culture flourished from the 14th through the early 16th century. The stories include a creation myth and accounts of numerous Aztec deities.

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

FEATHERED SERPENT AND THE FIVE SUNS by Duncan Tonatiuh is a Mesoamerican creation myth featuring Quetzalcóatl, the feathered serpent. The book concludes with an author’s note exploring the history of the story along with a glossary and bibliography.

MYTHOPEDIA is an authoritative web-based resource exploring myths around the world. The Aztec Mythology section examines the gods and goddesses, creatures and creation myths of the Aztec civilization. Each article explores the history along with providing examples of artwork and modern references.

To visit the website, go to https://mythopedia.com/aztec-mythology/.

ARC courtesy of Abrams.

Synergy: DNA

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a material found in the cells of all living things. It determines what a living thing looks like and how it functions. Sections of DNA information are called genes.

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

GROW: SECRETS OF OUR DNA by Nicola Davies is an informational picture book describing how living things grow. It describes DNA as a set of instructions used to create a human body as well as other living beings.

YOURGENOME is a website where students can learn about DNA, genes, genomes, and the implications for our health and society. Designed by the Wellcome Genome Campus, users can explore videos, activities, interactives and a glossary. Sections of the website focus on the cell, methods and technology, targeting disease, society and behavior, and animals and animals.

To visit this online project, go to https://www.yourgenome.org/.

ARC courtesy of Candlewick.

Synergy: Tham Luang Cave Rescue

In the summer of 2018, twelve members of a boy’s soccer team and their assistant coach were trapped in a cave by flooding waters. Although the team survived, two divers died during the rescue.

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

ALL THIRTEEN: THE INCREDIBLE CAVE RESCUE OF THE THAI BOYS’ SOCCER TEAM by Christina Soontornvat is an award winning work of nonfiction that shares the rescue story through an engrossing narrative and fascinating photos. Each short chapter immerses readers in a different aspect of the event from the coach and his players to the cave divers.

RISING WATER: THE STORY OF THE THAI CAVE RESCUE by Marc Aronson tells the amazing story of survival through a well-researched narrative and compelling photographs.

THAM LUANG CAVE RESCUE is a documentary video tracing how the 17 day rescue unfolded. It includes compelling video from the rescue along with interviews with those involved.

To watch the view, go to https://youtu.be/x_kiX0uUDNI.

STEP INSIDE THE THAI CAVE IN AUGMENTED REALITY from The New York Times allows readers to experience what rescuers faced when trying to save the boys and their coach. Combining short texts, maps, and diagrams, readers are taken step-by-step through the cave rescue.

To explore the interactive, go to https://nyti.ms/39qAjn3.

ARC courtesy of Candlewick and Atheneum.

Synergy: Snow Birds

Snow birds are birds that don’t migrate to a warmer climate during the winter months. Many of these birds have developed adaptations and behaviors to help them survive the cold, snowy weather.

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

SNOW BIRDS written by Kirsten Hall and illustrations by Jenni Desmond explores seventeen birds commonly seen in snowy landscapes. Each two-page spread examines a different bird that has adapted to the cold winter weather. Rather than focusing on scientific facts, the verse reflects the characteristics and habits of each creature. The book concludes with factual information about how each bird has adapted to the cold.

PROJECT FEEDERWATCH from The Cornell Lab asks participants to embrace the winter weather and count feeder birds for science. The website describes how to watch for winter birds and participate in the citizen science project. It also provides help in identifying birds.

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

ARC courtesy of Abrams Books for Young Readers

Synergy: Donner Party

The Donner Party were pioneers migrating to California from the Midwest. Due to a series of mishaps, they became snowbound in the Sierra Nevada mountains in the winter of 1846-47. Nearly half of the party succumbed to illness, starvation, and the extreme weather.

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

THE SNOW FELL THREE GRAVES DEEP by Allan Wolf uses an engaging verse approach to share the infamous Donner Party story. Told through the eyes of the participants and using the voice of “Hunger” as a narrator, the author recounts this story of survival in the wilderness. The comprehensive back matter provides useful background information for readers unfamiliar with the story.

DONNER DINNER PARTY: A PIONEER TALE by Nathan Hale retells the disastrous events of the 1846 journey to California. This Bigger & Badder edition is a deluxe, oversized graphic novel approach that includes 16 new pages. The author skillfully balances humor with the macabre for the tween and teen audience.

ALL THE MISTAKES THAT DOOMED THE DONNER PARTY from Weird History is a fast-paced, short video tracing the key events in the Donner-Reed party disaster.

To watch the video, go to https://youtu.be/4g6ITFTtHZQ.

DESPERATE DREAMERS is a transcript of the documentary film shown at Donner State Park in California. The film tells the story of the Donner Company of 1846.

To read the transcript, go to https://bit.ly/3orHEY1.

THE DONNER PARTY is a PBS video series. The American Experience website provides access to background information, primary sources, a teacher’s guide and useful articles along with links to sources for viewing the series.

To learn more, go to https://to.pbs.org/2NAdCV5.

ARC courtesy of Amulet and Candlewick.

Synergy: Black Lives Matter

Black Lives Matter is an international group advocating against violence, oppression, and racism toward Black people. Originating in the African-American community, this movement has sparked demonstration around the world.

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

ALL BECAUSE YOU MATTER by Tami Charles with illustrations by Bryan Collier is a visually stunning picture book celebrating the life of a black child. The timely and powerful message focuses on struggle, hope, and love.

HELPING KIDS UNDERSTAND THE BLACK LIVES MATTER MOVEMENT is a project of the popular educational group BrainPOP. In addition to providing access to an animated, educational video that explains the movement, the page provides suggestions for educators and links to additional resources.

To learn more, go to https://bit.ly/2Ys2w6N.

To hear from the author and illustrator, go to https://youtu.be/zWQhFhunqh0.

ARC courtesy of Orchard Books, an imprint of Scholastic.

Synergy: News Literacy

News literacy is a set of knowledge, skills, attitudes, and dispositions that helps people process news and media communications. News literate consumers are able to locate factual, credible information, distinguish fact from opinion, evaluate the quality of news sources, and explore multiple perspectives before drawing conclusions. Finally, they understand the role of freedom of speech in a democracy and the need for ethics in journalism.

Read a couple recently published children’s books, then learn more at the website:

GUARDIANS OF LIBERTY: FREEDOM OF THE PRESS AND THE NATURE OF NEWS by Linda Barrett Osborne explores two centuries of the guarantees expressed in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Using examples throughout American history, the author explores how freedom of the press has evolved and the challenges caused by new technologies. From the Civil Rights Movement and the Student Press to fake news, each chapter explores a key idea through the use of text, historical photos, pull-quotes, and primary source documents.

BREAKING THE NEWS: WHAT’S REAL, WHAT’S NOT, AND WHY THE DIFFERENCE MATTERS by Robin Terry Brown is intended to help readers become responsible users of the media. Chapters examine the history of news, making of news, misinformation and the media today. The book concludes by providing ideas for seeking the truth and thoughts about the future of news. The colorful images and interesting text will attract young readers.

The NEWS LITERACY PROJECT is a nonpartisan, nonprofit providing resources for educators that encourage learners to be active and engaged consumers of news and information. The educator section offers an online learning platform called Checkology and lots of classroom materials.

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

ARC courtesy of Abrams and National Geographic.

Synergy: Plastic Pollution

Plastic pollution is the negative impact of the accumulation of plastic on the environment, wildlife, and humans. From disposable bottles and straws to microbead particles, plastic waste is resistant to natural degradation adversely effecting both land and sea creatures. There are many ways individuals can help prevent plastic pollution.

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

KIDS FIGHT PLASTIC by Martin Dorey is a highly illustrated work of nonfiction featuring 17 ways kids can stop plastic pollution and save the oceans. Each major mission identifies a way individuals can fight pollution and why it’s important. Within each mission are shorter, 2-minute missions worth “superhero points”.

KIDS TAKE ACTION AGAINST OCEAN PLASTIC is a short film from National Geographic highlighting a group of Hawaiian students who studied the impact of plastic pollution on their local beaches.

To learn more, go to https://youtu.be/hKFV9IquMXA.

ARC courtesy of Candlewick Press.

Synergy: The Children of World War II

World War II had a deep and lasting impact on children. While some young people lived and died in concentration camps, others were able to escape to England as refugees.

Read two recently published children’s books, then learn more at the websites:

THE MISSING: THE TRUE STORY OF MY FAMILY IN WORLD WAR II by Michael Rosen shares the experiences of the author’s family members along with his own stories of growing up with a legacy of lost family connections. Woven throughout the narrative are works of poetry and references to today’s issues of racism and refugees. This short book concludes with resources to help readers dig deeper into history.

HISTORYWORKS has posted audio files of Michael Rosen’s poetry. The project features over two dozen entries.

To listen to the poems, go to https://audioboom.com/playlists/4613930-michael-rosen-poems.

WE HAD TO BE BRAVE: ESCAPING THE NAZIS ON THE KINDERTRANSPORT by Deborah Hopkinson tells the heartbreaking story of children and teens who survived the Holocaust by escaping to England. Using dozens of true accounts, the author weaves together stories of survival and hope at a time of war. Organized into four parts, the book explores pre-war events, the tipping point, the flight, and the aftermath. The postscripts shares a timeline, glossary, resources, and other useful materials to extend the reading experience.

WHAT WAS KINDERTRANSPORT is a BBC Newsround article focusing on the mission that took thousands of children to safety during World War II. The article features text, historical photographs and interviews.

To read the BBC article, go to https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/46877532.

ARC courtesy of Candlewick and Scholastic.

Synergy: Mindfulness in Nature

Mindfulness in nature encourages individuals to engage in fulfilling relationships with the natural world. With the constant distractions of social media and modern society, it’s important that children have opportunities to spend time relaxing and connecting outdoors.

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

SLOW DOWN: 50 MINDFUL MOMENTS IN NATURE written by Rachel Williams and illustrated by Freya Hartas features dozens of two-page spreads exploring natural wonders that are often overlooked in today’s hectic world such as a spider spinning a web. The book concludes with an exercise in mindfulness for young readers.

CHILDHOOD BY NATURE is a website encouraging a reunion of children with nature. It includes a blog, learning center, activity finder, and ideas for armchair naturalists. The resource is filled with ideas for librarians, educators and parents.

To visit the website, go to https://childhoodbynature.com/.

ARC courtesy of Abrams Books for Young Readers.