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My Sweet Grands,
Before I came to live with you I spent 18 years teaching sixth graders about the eastern ancient civilizations. I loved teaching. Learning about how others lived, their customs and traditions, the advancements in science, math, language, religion, writing and art, plus the development of tools and technology is fascinating.
I most enjoyed getting to know the people of each civilization.
At this time of year I enjoyed teaching about the Ancient China civilization, specifically Lunar New Year. I know you are years away from learning about this unit for your self, but its never to early to start.
Today I gathered up a few of my favorite books and some your parents have purchased for you to specifically read over the next 15 days.
Lunar New Year by Hannah Eliot. This is a beautifully illustrated board book introducing young children to the customs, traditions and history of Lunar New Year. It is part of a series called "Celebrate The World". I love that these books are teaching children about other cultures and customs in such a beautiful way.
Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao by Kat Zhang. After watching her mother, father and grandmother make bao, Amy is determined to make the "PERFECT" bao. But, she runs into a few obstacles. The fun illustrations and engaging story make this a "perfect" read for any age. Best part, it includes a recipe for bao.
Amy Wu and the Patchwork Dragon by Kat Zhang. Amy is back for another adventure. This time she is trying to create a dragon, but she can't seem to get her ideas on paper. I love that the story identifies the difference between Eastern and Western dragons as Amy allows her creativity to take shape.
There are several other stories about Amy Wu, I'm excited to collect them all.
Amy Wu and the Patchwork Dragon
The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi. Even though this story is about a Korean family it is still a wonderful read during Lunar New Year. I love the strength of the main character as she finds her way living in a new country.
D is For Dancing Dragon: A China Alphabet by Carol Crane. I have a few of these alphabet books on different topics and LOVE them! Each letter of the alphabet focuses on a different element of life in China, from ancient times to present day. Each letter is introduced with a simple sentence or two accompanied by incredible engaging illustrations. What sets this book apart from others are the more detailed explanations of each topic, thus engaging more advance readers and adults.
Lon Po Po by Ed Young. I was introduced to this story many years ago by our school librarian. Since I was the only one who checked it out I was gifted the only copy we had. As you read the story it will feel familiar as it is "A Red-Riding Hood Story From China." My students loved it. It was a Caldecott Medal winner in 1990.
I save the best for last:
Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin. Grace Lin brings the rough farming life of Fruitless Mountain to life as she weaves the adventures Minli takes in hopes to change her families fortune. The book is filled with lovable characters, colorful Chinese folktales and life lessons we can each learn. I loved this book so much that I purchased a classroom set and each Lunar New Year we read the book.
I have my youngest daughter to thank for this book recommendation. It has been may favorite since my first read. I rank it among my favorites, right next to "Charlotte's Web".
I will hold off on sharing this book with you now, but I can't wait for us to read it together.
Grace Lin has several other books. I am in the process of reading her other titles.
Where the Mountain Meets the Moon
I get so excited to share part of my teaching life with you and can't wait till we get to learn all about the ancient civilizations together. For now we get to read wonderful stories with beautiful illustrations together.
Love you,
Gammy
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