The authors deliver concise annotations of 85 picture books; notations about the illustrative elements found in each book are followed by novel, theme, and curriculum connections. A chart is included, showing how each of the tides connects to different areas of the curriculum. Practical language arts, math, science, social studies, art, and music activities are suggested in ways to encourage a deeper understanding of the books.

In this valuable resource, Hurst and Otis bring together the methods and philosophy for the extensive use of trade books in the middle school curriculum. Novels, picture books, and non-fiction materials are summarized and extended within the context of themes, literary study, and focus books for discussion and activities in the classroom and library. Eighteen fully developed themes enable educators to bring literature into other areas of the curriculum. In addition, 29 literary works are explored through further activities and discussion, again reaching into many curriculum areas. A...

This book contains 20 themes that relate directly to literature, social studies, science, math, art, and music curriculum. Each theme recommends activities and books for further study. 14 focus picture books include summaries of books and ideas and suggestions for cross-curriculum activities. 25 author studies give biographic information on well-known picture book authors and illustrators, as well as overviews of their work and summaries of their books.