While he was working on the illustrations for this story about a family of mallard ducks in Boston, McCloskey bought four ducks at a market so he could study what they looked like and how they acted. What a great way to get students thinking about their own writing and drawing!
Recommended Reading
At Gordon Parks Elementary we take special care in selecting books for our children. Here is a selection of our favorite books.
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This book uses flat shapes and bright colors combined with simple words about gardening to convey both information and a story. |
Here is a beautiful and powerful collection of some of the best poetry for children, including works by Langston Hughes, Eloise Greenfield and Gwendolyn Brooks. |
To thank old Eula for her wonderful Sunday chicken dinners, the children sell decorated eggs and give her a wonderful surprise. This is a beautiful story of friendship between the generations.
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A young girl dreams of flying above her Harlem home, claiming all she sees for herself and her family. The book is based on the author's quilt painting of the same name.
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Polacco gives us a touching portrayal of a cross-cultural friendship in a story passed down from her father's side of the family. It tells of how her Yankee great-great-grandfather was rescued during a Civil War battle by a young black soldier. |
Whether at home getting ready for the day, enjoying the beach, or at bedtime, Olivia is a feisty pig who has too much energy for her own good. Don't miss her fashion show!
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Hetty is very careful with the eggs she has bought on her very first trip to the store, but she runs into trouble when she stops to pick apples. This is a beautiful portrait of a loving family.
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The highly repetitive and funny text of this enduring classic encourages participation from the youngest to the most sophisticated of our students.
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