In the library, we are preparing for two upcoming assemblies. On Wednesday, February 8, grades K, 1, 2, and 3 will see a dramatization of The Story of Ferdinand, written by Munro Leaf and illustrated by Robert Lawson. Written in 1936, the story celebrates those of us who march to our own drummer despite what everyone else may be doing--especially those of a gentler, less combative nature. During library visits this week we will be reading Ferdinand and making flowers out of pipe cleaners (or some people call them "chenilles") to toss to Ferdinand during the play.
On February 13, grades 4 and 5 will see scenes from A Midsummer Night's Dream, by William Shakespeare. Last week during library time grade 5 learned a bit of biographical information about "the Bard"; this week we're hearing a relatively new biographical picture book called Ira's Shakespeare Dream, by Glenda Armand. It's the story of Ira Aldridge (1807-1867), who is considered one of the great Shakespearean actors of the nineteenth century and who also happened to be African American. February is Black History Month, so it's great to have such a compelling story that adds to our understanding of both Shakespeare and black history.
Grade 4 continues with Some Kind of Courage, by Dan Gemeinhart. I think the students are enjoying it. I'm sorry not to be doing more Shakespeare with them, but as I've said, I think the novel is well worth the time and attention we are giving it.
Book club for grade 5 is also doing a Shakespeare-themed book: Secrets of Shakespeare's Grave, by Devon R. Hicks. The next club meeting is February 27. On display in the library this week are many books about Shakespeare as well as books on writing and being an author. Also on display are the students' beautiful fish and sea stars! They turned out great--please come by and take a look!