Month: April 2017
The Most Famous Wolf In The West – OR7
Title: Journey: Based on the True Story of OR7 – The Most Famous Wolf In The West
Author: Emma Bland Smith
Illustrator: Robin James
Published: Little Bigfoot, an imprint of Sasquatch Books, October 11, 2016
Themes/Topics: Believing in something and taking action, conservation, geography, exploration, wolves.
Opening:
“The wolf took one last look at his mother and his father. This sweet-smelling forest of pines and firs had always been home. But he was grown now. Most of his brothers and sisters had already left to start their own families. It was time for him to do the same.”
Brief Synopsis: A “Journey” you won’t soon forget! Emma Bland Smith blends a beautiful true story about a wolf named, OR7, with a fictional character that relates to the young reader, and she brings them on an incredible journey they won’t soon forget. The wolf’s travels are followed closely by the media and captures the attention of young Abby, a budding conservationist, and animal lover. Abby is intrigued so she tracks the wolf’s travels throughout Oregon. When he reaches California, many fear he could be in danger. Abby decides to become involved. She enters a local radio station contest to name the wolf, and she wins! The wolf’s name is Journey.
Why I Like This Book: This is a wonderful story on so many levels, especially the idea that anyone, at any age can make a difference and become involved. OR7 and Abby were meant to touch each other’s lives. This journey has a pulse and heart of its own. This story also highlights the importance of the role we play in our environment and the synergy between nature and humans. The illustrations also add to the wolf’s journey. Nicely done. Emma does a fabulous job telling the story and she includes a valuable teacher’s resource guide in the back of the book as well. She did such a great job with the extensions, that I for once did not have much to add. A must have for every bookshelf and classroom. I LOVE this book!! Awesome job, Emma!
Extensions for the book:
YouTube Video on Wolves: click here
It Must Be Friday! ♥
I am fortunate enough to be part of a fabulous group of bloggers who enjoy reviewing picture books. Accompanying each review are extensions – resources and/or activities. Interested in seeing more: To view a complete list of the plethora of books that have already been reviewed, click here on Susanna Leonard Hill’s FABULOUS website!
Who Doesn’t LOVE a Cowboy?
Title: Tommy James – The Littlest Cowboy in Reckon
Author: Maria Ashworth
Illustrator: Andrea Peixoto Emmerick
Published: Spork – A Division of Clear Fork Publishing – February 7, 2017
Themes/Topics: Recognizing your strengths, acceptance, believing in yourself
Opening:
“Tommy James was the littlest cowboy in the town of Reckon. Crawling into small spaces was easy. Climbing under tight spaces was a breeze. Hiding behind tiny things was a breeze.”
Brief Synopsis: Tommy James is the littlest cowboy in the town of Reckon so crawling, climbing and hiding in teeny tiny places is easy for him. He always enjoyed being small, until one day someone big and mean came to town. Bo Jones is his name, and he is determined to make Tommy James feel even smaller. But what Bo Jones doesn’t realize, is what Tommy James lacks in stature, he makes up for with heart and wit. Never underestimate a cowboy with passion and brains!
Why I Like This Book: Not only is Tommy James the littlest cowboy in the town of Reckon, but he is also the cutest too. He knows who he is and he never lets his shortcomings stop him from being a cowboy, and in the process, he teaches the town bully a thing or two about acceptance and partnership. A rootin, tootin good story with a rough and tough message dusted with heart. Be sure to lasso your copy today. Yeehaw!
Tommy James YouTube link: Tommy James
Extensions for the book:
| Primary | |
| Vivid verb search | |
| Sight word search | |
| Character dialogue posters | |
| Cowboy word list |
It Must Be Friday! ♥
I am fortunate enough to be part of a fabulous group of bloggers who enjoy reviewing picture books. Accompanying each review are extensions – resources and/or activities. Interested in seeing more: To view a complete list of the plethora of books that have already been reviewed, click here on Susanna Leonard Hill’s FABULOUS website!
TCP WRITES 
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