One Monday Morning

I can't tell you how thankful I am for all this rain!  Our lawn was beginning to look like we didn't care about it.  It's been so long since our last day of rain that the kids have delighted in this seemingly unusual occasion.  And you know how I feel about rainy days . . . they're the perfect excuse to enjoy pots of tea and snuggle down with some good books . . . oh, and the kids.

Today we're reading One Monday Morning by Uri Shulevitz.  If you haven't checked out a Uri Shulevitz book yet, here's your chance with the perfect rainy day read.  Shulevitz presents an enchanting, imaginative book that also teaches the days of the week and sequencing skills.  And, as in most of Shulevitz's books, his illustrations depict a broader, detailed story than his actual text.  So, really, why would you want to miss out on this enriching book?

Rain Rain Rivers

Once again Uri Shulevitz provides us with a beautifully illustrated and lyrical book entitled Rain Rain Rivers (1969).  Check it out.  And listen.

more snow

I guess you've noticed that I've been rather focused on the snow theme recently.  Well, the kids are rather taken with these books, most likely because we've been experiencing an unusual amount of snow and ice.  In fact, we've been home for a whole week thanks to the beautiful winter precipitation.  And the kids just can't get enough of it!  I have to bribe them with hot cocoa and popcorn to come inside (which I need to restock).

Snow by Uri Shulevitz (c. 1998) received a Caldecott Honor in 1999.  Here's a book that's a study in contrasts.  With surprisingly few words, the illustrations drive the story, beginning with the cover.  The kids also enjoy the whimsical in the fairy tale bookstore characters floating down to join the boy's snow celebration.  They also rush to be the first to count those first falling snowflakes.  What's your favorite part of Uri Shulevitz's Snow?