Hats Off to A Good Read

     I know that ordering from Amazon is quick and easy but there is just nothing like spending an hour or two in a real, live bookstore. The smell of new books brings me back to being about 10 years old and getting a new "Little House on the Prairie" book (I'm dating myself, aren't I?) and cracking the spine for the first time. Ahhh . . . once a reader. always a reader.
     I stopped in Barnes & Noble today to pick up a gift. I was in a bit of a rush because I had 27 things on my To Do list today, so I promised myself that it would be a quick in and out stop. Well, Bookstore - 1, Me - 0. I was there for 2 hours. 120 minutes. I did not make it to the post office or to Target, but I have a whole big bag of new books! So I think I should revise the score because it's really a win-win: Bookstore - 1, Me - 1!
     I thought I would share a couple of the gems that I found over my next few posts.

     They say you can't judge a book from it's cover, but the minute this first book caught my eye, I had a feeling it would be a good one. Released just last month and titled Hooray for Hat, this sweet story is Brian Won's debut book and it is darling. (I can't remember the last time I actually used the word, "darling," but it really is the perfect word to use here.) Elephant wakes up grumpy and is quickly cheered when he finds a wonderful gift-wrapped hat on his doorstep. As he heads out to show his friends, he finds them grumpy as well (must be a Monday!) and shares his hat with them. By the end of the book, there is a joyous parade of hat-wearing friends. It is such a sweet story of friendship, sharing, and helping others feel good that I can't wait to read this book to my new class next month. Repetitive text will encourage class participation and the wonderful illustrations (also by Mr. Won) will keep students engaged. This will be a great book to read when trying to establish the kind of classroom climate that I hope to create because Mr. Won has included so many of the traits that I hope to foster. Friendship, sharing (and great accessorizing) - what more do you need? An instant fan, I can't wait to see what Mr. Won comes up with next. I made a quick little activity to use with the book (you can grab a copy by clicking on the picture) so dust off your hat, run to the bookstore, and don't forget to spread a little friendship today.

Happy Reading!