A Faith Like Mine: A Celebration of the World’s Religions Through the Eyes of Children

Author/Illustrator: DK Publishing
Publisher: DK Publishing
Publication Date: 2005
Genre: Nonfiction
Audience: Gr. 1-10

Overview: The book is made to educate children about world religions. The
pictures and stories of children who practice faith from different religions create an interest for the students.

Activity: Great to help everyone feel part of the class as different religions and beliefs are explored in the classroom.

Reviewer’s Name: Shiori Tachiwana

The Polar Express

Author/Illustrator: Chris Van Allsburg
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin
Publication Date: 1985
Genre: Fiction Picture Book
Audience: All ages
Awards: Caldecott Medal Winner

Overview: A boy is taken away on a magical journey to the North Pole via the Polar Express. He gets a chance to choose a present of his choice first. He receives a melodic silver bell and he keeps it for the rest of his life. The bell sounds beautiful to people who believe in spirit of holiday.

Reviewer’s Name: Shiori Tachiwana

The Boy Who Cried Fabulous

Author/Illustrator: Leslea Newman/Peter Ferguson
Publisher: Tricycle Press
Publication Date: 2004
Genre: Picture book
Audience: Gr. 1 - college

Overview: What a fabulous book
to help readers use
fabulous words to tell,
describe, or amuse.

What a fabulous process
of learning new words
by the boy who cried “fabulous”
to all of the birds.

The word “fabulous”
permeates all of his days
This book will help kids
Change his repetitive ways.

Thus, the main character uses the word fabulous until he is banned from using it again!

Activity: This book very easily provides lots of opportunity to discuss word choices. Use it as the creative stepping-stone to a study of synonyms.

Reviewer’s Name: Deb Marciano