B. McAfee's Book Selection

There is a short book by Mary Reid called Beatrix Potter. It is an easy to read version of the English illustrator's biography. In 10 pages, the reader gets a glimpse of Potters' gifted attributes. Since childhood, she drew things that she saw in nature. her illustrations were so detailed that were used in research papers. But her talent was not only drawing. She also had the ability to create engaging stories about the animals she drew. She had an unusual interest in all kinds of animals and their way of life. With the money from her books, she bought land and created a National Park in England.

Almost every child enjoys drawing. After reading this book, the students might want to research more about an animal of their interest, to create their own story. Other students might be interested in learning more about Potter's life and illustrations. They might be even interested in learning about Potter's estate in England. To foster students' discussions, the teacher might ask why children enjoy so much Potter's books, or why do they think she bought so much land in England. As an extension, the students might choose one of Potter's characters and create their own story. They can also write an essay about the projects they would finance or build if they were recognized authors or illustrators and who would benefit from them.
B. McAfee