Teachers Resource Books

From Publishers Weekly

Fans of Polacco's (Thundercake; Pink and Say) work know well her talent for weaving her colorful family history throughout her picture books. Here Polacco shares her childhood triumph over dyslexia and discovery of reading in an inspiring if slightly formulaic story. Young Trisha is eager to taste the "sweetness of knowledge" that her grandfather has always revered (here symbolized by drizzling honey onto a book and tasting it, which harkens back to Polacco's earlier The Bee Tree). But when she looks at words and numbers, everything is a jumble. Trisha endures the cruel taunts of classmates who call her "dumb," and falls behind in her studies. But finally the encouragement and efforts of a new fifth grade teacher, Mr. Falker, trigger a monumental turning point in Trisha's life. She begins to blossom and develop all of her talents, including reading. Polacco's tale is all the more heartfelt because of its personal nature. Young readers struggling with learning difficulties will identify with Trisha's situation and find reassurance in her success. Polacco's gouache-and-pencil compositions deftly capture the emotional stages?frustration, pain, elation?of Trisha's journey. Ages 5-up.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to the

Hardcover
edition.


From School Library Journal

Kindergarten-Grade 4AOnce more Polacco shares a personal story with engaging results. This moving saga of her struggle with a learning disability makes an inspiring picture book. Young Tricia wants desperately to read but when she starts school she finds that the words "wiggle" on the page. Teased by her classmates, she retreats into dreams and drawings. It's not until the family moves to California and Tricia has managed to reach the fifth grade that a new teacher finally recognizes her pain and distress. What's more, he does something about it. Without belaboring the point, the author clearly shows the ways that children internalize critical comments made by others and suffer for their differences. This touching story is accompanied by illustrations in Polacco's signature style. Youngsters, as well as adults, may find themselves choked up at the emotions so eloquently described in words and pictures. Yet, like the tears young Tricia cries at the end of the book, these are ultimately tears of joy. Thank you, indeed, Mr. Felker (the real name of the teacher involved) for making it all possible. Readers will be grateful for the chance to recognize, appreciate, and share in Polacco's talent and creativity.ALisa Dennis, The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to the

Hardcover
edition.

See all Editorial Reviews

Review of Making Your First Year a Success: The Secondary Teacher's Survival Guide

"Simply full of practical applications for new teachers! Interesting and enjoyable, with ideas that can help create a more positive experience for the first-year teacher."

(Lisa Suhr)

"This book is a useful tool for any young teacher or mentor, and could direct staff development activities. The easy readability, logical topics, and real-life cases make this a helpful resource for every teacher entering the profession." (Elizabeth A. Ennis, Superintendent )

Long before you began your student teaching, you were thinking about the day when you would have your own classroom-the time when you would finally be able to put into practice the things you had been learning in your discipline and your professional education courses.