This week is bounded by two significant events in United States history. Today marks the tenth anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. In recognition of the day, fifth-graders will here 14 Cows for America, which tells the true story of a gift given to America by the Maasai people as a gesture of compassion and comfort. September 17 is Constitution Day (observed September 16 at Pennekamp), and students throughout the school will be receiving instruction this week in the history of America's Constitution. Links for both these events are provided on the Weekly Readalouds post for this week.
Other grades are hearing books related to reading and libraries, and most grades are being introduced to the collection, the catalog, and library policies. Kindergarten will be hearing Edward and the Pirates, by David McPhail, because Monday, September 19, is Talk Like a Pirate Day! Aaaargh, me hearties, get yourselves a copy of Treasure Island (FIC STE) or How I Became a Pirate (E LON) and have a swashbuckling time!
One last special event to mention: New York Times bestselling author Judy Schachner, creator of the irrepressible Skippyjon Jones books, will be appearing at our local independent bookstore, Pages: A Bookstore. The event is Monday, September 12, at 3:30, and reservations are recommended (310-318-0900).