L.C.'s Book Selection

                                                                 

Peter Reynolds’ “Ish” is a book I came upon this school year for the first time. Coincidently, we read another of his stories in our Senderos (Journeys) book just a few weeks ago with a similar theme, “The Dot”, both ideal for ages 5 and up. I chose this book because the talented character in this story gives up on her talent based on someone’s comment and for that same reason she picks renews her interest in art. Ramon gives up on his drawing interest after his older brother makes fun of his pictures. However,, his younger sister makes him realize that he is indeed an artist by praising and displaying his art in her room. She opens his eyes and gives him the confidence he needed to continue with his passion.

Themes and topics that arise with this book are being different, bullying, acceptance, friendship, positive feedback, likes/ dislikes, character traits (respectful and caring), and being of good character. Other book discussions and topics with this book are explored through thinking maps or language literacy charts could be comparing/ contrasting, problem/ solution, cause/ effect, writing letters, persuasion, adjectives, difference of opinions, perseverance, and support. Guiding questions used to foster discussions prior to reading the book are “What would you tell someone who is giving up on their dream?”, “What if we gave up riding a bicycle, reading, etc?”, “Describe and compare the 3 main characters of the story.”, “Does the story remind you of something/ someone?”. Some extensions were “What is going to happen after the end of this story?”, “Write a persuasive letter to one of the characters.”, “What are some of the effects of Ramon continuing his passion?” This book has a wonderful theme of perseverance and how support and confidence are needed to ensure everyone explores the potential of talent and/or creativity.

L.C.-(1A)