What I have learned in English 360

Seeing how this is the last blog entry for the semester (sigh of relief), I wanted to write about my experience in this course and what I have learned over the course of this semester. When I was told about this course from my mother, who took this course at Texas A&M University over twenty years ago she told me how much she learned and how the class prepared her for becoming a mother and teaching books to her children; my experience in this course has been no different. I have learned much more than the basic plot and character analysis of books. Throughout this course I learned how to take the text and try to figure out what the author was possibly implying. From the first day of class I was amazed at the between-the-lines meanings of some of the fairy tales we read, such as Little Red Riding Hood. Overall, this course has taught me how to better analyze text and to always look beyond the meaning of the words on a page.

Themes Present Throughout Harry Potter

The students that attend Hogwarts demonstrate the themes that are carried throughout this book: coming of age, responsibility, friendship, love, death, and good versus evil. Whether the student is fun loving and clumsy like Neville Longbottom or a bully like Draco Malfoy, each student’s personality is shaped by how they respond to the important situations that unfold throughout the book. The adults also experience struggles and must navigate through the many events that occur within the magical walls of Hogwarts. The characters in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone are complex, multidimensional and interesting, which is probably the contributing factor to the success of J.K. Rowling’s books in the adult world as well as the child world. This book would be an excellent addition to this course because this course is aimed towards reading books that “express the notions of nature of childhood and shape those notions within a culture” (Robinson). While some argue that Harry Potter is unacceptable for children, I argue that there are fundamental qualities throughout the Harry Potter books, in particular Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, making this book both entertaining and educational.

Concepts learned in Picture Books

Picture books are frequently used by teachers and parents as a way to introduce children to concepts such as counting, division, fractions, Geometry, measurement, multiplication, size, subtraction, time as well as other various concepts. The majority of these books are recommended for children between the ages of 4-8; however, some books will work for younger children as well. Based on the previous concepts listed above, below are lists of picture books that fall into each category.

 

Counting:

 

Five Little Monkeys Play Hide-and-Seek by Eileen Christelow

One Bear at Bedtime by Mick Inkpen

One Gorilla by Atsuko Morozumi

One Hundred Days of Cool by Stuart Murphy

Over in the Meadow by Jane Cabera

The Shopping Basket by John Burmingham

Ten Apples Up On Top by Theo LeSieg

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Division:

The Doorbell Rang by Pat Hutchins

Henry’s 100 Days of Kindergarten by Nancy Carlson

The Little Mouse, The Red Ripe Strawberry and The Big Hungry Bear by Audrey and The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog! by Mo Willems

Safari Park by Stuart Murphy

Fractions:

The Doorbell Rang by Pat Hutchins

Emily’s Wonderful Pie by Jane Cornish

Geometry:

The Secret Birthday Message by Eric Carle

The Wing on a Flea by Ed Emberley

Mouse Shapes by Ellen Stoll Walsh

Measurement:

Cook-A-Doodle-Doo by Susan Stevens Crummel and Janet Stevens

Counting on Frank by Rod Clement

Jim and the Beanstalk by Raymond Briggs

Multiplication:

365 Penguins by Jean-Luc Fromental and Joelle Jolivet

Anno’s Magic Seeds by Mitsumasa Anno

The Doorbell Rang by Pat Hutchins

Leaping Lizards by Stuart Murphy

Size:

All Shapes and Sizes by Shirley Hughes

The Bad-Tempered Ladybird by Eric Carle

The Blue Balloon by Mick Inkpen

Hop! Plop! by Corey Schwartz

A House for Birdie by Stuart Murphy

Just Teenie by Susan Meddaugh

Pardon? Said the Giraffe by Colin West

Shrinking Mouse by Pat Hutchins

Tall by Jez Alborough

Titch by Pat Hutchins

Watch Out Big Bro’s Coming! by Jez Alborough

Who Sank The Boat? by Pamela Allen

Subtraction:

Bed Hogs by Kelly DiPucchio and Howard Fine

Dora’s Chicks by Julie Sykes

5 Little Ducks by Wendy Straw

Five Little Monkeys Go Shopping by Eileen Christelow

Hardworking Puppies by Lynn Reiser

Safari Park by Stuart Murphy

The Shopping Basket by John Burmingham

Six Chicks by Henrietta Branford

Time:

All in One Hour by Susan Crummel

The Bad-Tempered Ladybird by Eric Carle

Cluck O’Clock by Kes Gray

Five Minutes Peace by Jill Murphy

Mr Wolf’s Nursery Time by Colin and Jacqui Hawkins

My Grandmother’s Clock by Geraldine McCaughrean

One Hundred Days of Cool by Stuart Murphy

What Time is it Mr Crocodile? by Judy Sierra

 

Analysis of The Tale of Peter Rabbit

In class we defined picture books as a work that contains minimal or no text and pictures. Both elements are required in order for the book to relay its message. By far this section of reading has been my favorite because going back and reading these popular picture books as an adult brings an entirely different meaning to each book. For example, when I read The Tale of Peter Rabbit as a child, I was completely entertained by the risk-taking rabbit that ventured into Mr. McGregor’s garden; however, reading the book some15 years later, I realize the book contains much more underlying meaning than that of an adventurous rabbit. For example, after our class discussion I realized this book teaches important lessons regarding obedience, motherhood, love, compassion, and nurturing. I really enjoyed looking at all of the qualities that has made this book a main-stay in children’s literature. 

The Stinky Cheese Man

My favorite book growing up was The Stinky Cheese Man and other Fairly Stupid Tales written by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith. I was amazed by the originality of pictures, characters, font, layout, and content. This was the first book I had ever read that was not written in the typical boring font!  The first page hooked me with the comedic value the authors were able to incorporate. They were able to make fun of typical features books contain, such as the title and table of contents. Another aspect of this book I enjoy so much is the fact that they were able to keep the typical fairy-tale story lines while giving them a creative and unique characteristic that make them unexpected and unique. While this book is probably intended for a somewhat older child audience, it is a great way to get children interested in old classics such as “The Ugly Ducking” and “The Little Red Hen.” 

Where The Wild Things Are

Where The Wild Things Are written by Maurice Sendak is a vivid book that describes a mystical world of monsters. Max, the main character is a child that disobeys his mother. Max wonders into the land where the wild things are. Because of his behavior, his mother tells him to go to bed without supper. While asleep, Max dreams and his room slowly turns into a jungle surrounded my vines.  At first Max is frightened by the Wild Things; however, they eventually learn to respect him and make him king of the Wild Things. After a while Max “wanted to be where someone loved him best of all” (Sendak) so he gave up being king and went back home. When he finally returned home his supper was waiting there for him, still warm. In my opinion, the best quality in this book is the vividness of the imagery and the repetition of key words. For example, words such as the monsters yellow eyes, and their terrible claws give the reader an actual image of what these Wild Things look like. Another great addition to this award-winning book is the wildly imaginative pictures that accompany the text. While the text is extremely vivid, without the incorporation of pictures the book would not contain the same meaning. 

The Tale Of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter

The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter is a wonderfully imaginative book about a mischievous rabbit that strays from home and finds himself in a world of trouble. The discussion we had in class yesterday about the definition of a “picture book” really aided in my own understanding of what a picture book actually is. While reading The Tale of Peter Rabbit, I was amazed at how well the illustrations added to the text. Without the stunningly visual pictures the text would not have the same effect on the audience. My favorite aspect of the pictures is that emotions the artist was able to evoke throughout the book. When Peter has just about given up, he begins to cry; at this specific time the audience is able to sympathize with Peter.  While Peter has gotten himself in this terrible situation we all want him to escape, and eventually he does.

Math Curse by Jon Scieszka

I wanted to discuss this book because we are reading The Stinky Cheese Man, which was also written by Jon Scieszka. Growing up he was my favorite author and his books continue to entertain me to this day. Math curse is an interesting book about a young girl that goes to class one day and her teacher, Mrs. Fibonacci, says that almost everything can be thought of as a math problem. After class, the young girl realizes that nearly everything she does throughout the day is a math problem; getting up, getting dressed, getting breakfast. Every where she goes and every subject she studies involve math problems: addition, subtraction, division, fractions, algebra and counting systems. When the young girl finally figures out how to break the math curse, Mr. Newton, her science teacher, says, "You know, you can think of almost everything as a science experiment." Growing up I could definitely relate to the problem this girl faces; math was a horrible subject for me (and still is). The modern abstract art and text integrated throughout the book along with the varied typefaces are integrated to create a sophisticated, humorous look at a subject that often creates the high level of anxiety.

Character Analysis of The Giver

The Giver is fair-eyed, like the previous Receiver, Rosemary. The Giver claims that Rosemary is his daughter. The Giver describes himself as not being as old as he looks and provides a magical transfer of powers. He has become tired by the burden of knowledge and memories, which has consumed his life. When Jonas meets him, The Giver points out that it is not the memory of nostalgia, not the recollections of childhood normally indulged by the old that he must transmit. "It's the memories of the whole world. His apartment is book lined, giving the impression that The Giver's knowledge is extremely refined. This first impression gives Jonas the idea that the relationship with The Giver will be one of professor and student. However, this impression is quickly undermined when The Giver announces that he is going to transmit the memory of snow. This involves a ritualistic laying on of hands and an extra-sensory simulation of the sensation of cold. After similar transmissions, both pleasurable and painful, The Giver concludes his education of Jonas in a very different manner. He shows him a videotape recording of a "Release," and then, clearly having become opposed to the community himself, helps Jonas plan an escape.

Themes Present in The Giver by Lois Lowry

While there are many themes present throughout the book “The Giver” by Lois Lowry the most prominent theme is coming of age. A key characteristic of the community Lowry has created is the annual ritual that takes place in December.  Each year a group, en masse, is declared one year older and given privileges and responsibilities. At the age of three, all children begin participating in the daily routine of "dreamtelling. A requirement where at the breakfast table, they talk about the dreams they have had that night. Also at the age of three, they must use correct grammar and language, regardless of their individual development. Up to the age of six, children wear jackets that fasten at the back. When they turn seven they are given a front-fastening outfit, as a mark of increasing independence. At the age of eight their "comfort object" is taken away. They are given another new jacket, this time with pockets. This indicating that they are now responsible enough to look after small belongings. Also at the age of eight they must begin doing voluntary service after school. At the age of nine, girls remove their hair ribbons, and all children get their own bicycle. At ten both boys and girls have their hair cut, and at eleven boys are given long trousers and girls "new undergarments." The most important rite of passage is when children become twelve years old. This is the last time children are actively involved in the annual ceremony. After the age of twelve, age is not considered important. Twelve is the age at which childhood is left behind, and children become adults. 

Precious Moments

Precious Moments is an extremely popular series of collectible porcelain figurines. Sam Butcher created the original work in the 1970’s. The figurines are of young children with teardrop shaped eyes, usually accompanied by an inspirational message. As a child I colleted these because they were so unique and inspirational; occasionally when I would have a bad day at school my mom would surprise me with a Precious Moments figurine that always seemed to fit the situation. While girls usually collect these figurines, the popular series has many different characteristics that make these good collectibles for all children, regardless of gender. 

Literature for Teen's

Children’s literature is a genre that is being focused on more and more; however, this genre also encompasses the genre of teen literature. The following books are great books for teens that discuss relationships, a topic that can be very useful for teens throughout their developmental years.

1. How could you do that?! The Abdication of Character, Courage, and Conscience by Dr. Laura Schlessinger

This book helps you understand the difference between "right" and "wrong" by showing hundreds of real-life situations and the correct way to approach each situation. The examples and advice offered in the book are fantastic and extremely realistic, mainly focusing on relationships and love.

2. Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus: A Practical Guide for Improving Communication and Getting What You Want in Your Relationships by John Gray

  

This book shows you exactly how different men and women really are. After reading this book you will have a much better understanding of how to communicate with and understand your significant other.  I was amazed by how many things I learned throughout this book. My favorite quality about this book was the addition of personal stories. This was a great technique because it made me realize that everyone has problems and they can all be worked out.

3. The Rules: Time-Tested Secrets for Capturing the Heart of Mr. Right by Ellen Fein and Sherri Schneider

This book is for written for women. It describes the old-fashioned rules that help women play the dating game successfully. The main point of this book is that you have to respect yourself in order for other people to respect you, making this book a great read for teenagers as well as women of all ages.

 

Popular Children's Authors

Children’s literature is a literary genre that is written to appeal to children. While many of these authors write primarily for children, this genre is also enjoyed by teenagers and adults. The following authors are well-known children’s authors. Their work ranges from the Harry Potter series to the traditional Peter Rabbit story book.

Rowling, J.K

Brett, Jan

Dr. Seuss

Carle, Eric

Dahl, Roald

Pilkey, Dav

Wood, Audrey

Munsch, Robert

Avi

Lewis, C.S

Polacco, Patricia

Di Terlizzi, Tony

Paterson, Katherine

Yolen, Jane

Snicket, Lemony

Jacques, Brian

Cleary, Beverly

Geroge, Jean Craighead

Seibold, J.Otto and Vivian Walsh

Anderson, Hans Christian

Potter, Beatrix

Carroll, Lewis

Lowry, Lois

Stine, R.L

Christopher, Matt

Types of Literary Genres

• Picture Books: are books in which the picture is just as important as the text. The genre is based on a physical format, so it can contain titles from many of the other genres.  This genre includes picture books, illustrated storybooks, wordless storybooks, concept books, and informational books. In these books, the text and illustrations are fused together.
• Poetry Books: can range from poetry that rhymes to free verse and concrete verse. Poetry books take the sound of language and arrange it in exciting ways. Each word is chosen carefully for its sound and its meaning. It appeals to the thoughts and feelings of the reader.
• Traditional Literature: is born of oral tradition, and is passed orally from generation to generation.  It often has "retold by" or "adapted by" by the author. These books typically begin, Once upon a time... and usually have a happy ending. There also typically multiple versions of the same story. Good always conquers evil.
• Science Fiction: speculates on what might happen in the future in our universe. The books in this genre address themes of love, justice, truth, loyalty, goodness, courage and wisdom.  Sometimes the line between fantasy and science fiction is blurred, with elements of both genres in the story. 

• Contemporary Realistic Fiction: deals with the problems and joys of living. There is often an element of character growth or self-realization throughout the book. This genre extends children's horizons by broadening their interests, and allowing them to experience new adventures.
• Historical Fiction and Biography: is set in the past. Readers can gain an understanding of the past and relive past events. Biography includes biographical fiction, fictionalized biography, authentic biography and autobiography.
• Informational Books: also called non-fiction books. These books must be factual, clearly organized, and include illustrations where needed. Informational books typically avoid stereotypes and generalizations. 

What makes a good book?

While there are multiple questions you could ask, some specific questions to ask for each genre are listed below are some general questions to ask yourself when trying to decide whether or not a book is considered a “good book.”

o Does the book story line interesting?

o Is the story appropriate for the intended age range?

o Is the book well-written?

o What does the reader anticipate from the title of the book?

o Does the story have a theme, if so what is it?

o Is the theme worth talking to children about?

o Is their a well-constructed plot?

o Is the plot original?

o Are the characters convincing and credible?

o Is the dialogue natural?

o If there are illustrations in the book, do they add to the text?

o Does the story avoid stereotypes?

o Overall, was the reading experience positive?

o Is the author aware of social and historical subjects?

o Is the style of writing appropriate for the subject of the book?