We had a wonderful visit with author Kathleen Duble on January 27th. She spoke for a full hour, sharing the stories behind her books. We learned her personal connection to The Sacrifice and pulled questions from a bubbling witch's cauldron (well, it didn't quite bubble, but we could imagine it.) Many students left the presentation wanting to become writers.

A dozen students joined Ms. Duble for lunch following her talk. There they learned her favorite book is Tuck Everlasting (currently being read in the 5th grade! )

It was an enjoyable morning with a talented author.

We need High Speed!!!

Many students have expressed  frustration that they can't access the blog because they either have no internet or dial-up at home. There still exists a digital divide in our state, which hopefully will be resolved soon. Students may use the library and computer lab to access the blog during free time.

Create a Bookmark

There has been such a nice response to Mr. Mahler's MCBA bookmarks, I wanted to share three more. Can you identify the books that inspired them?








This week, I'm challenging you to create a bookmark representing your favorite MCBA book.
Since this counts as a book project, each entry that meets the criteria will earn a point. One entry per student.
1. Your bookmark must include 3 things about the book (images, not words.)
2. No computer images of the book! Use drawings, collage, found objects, be creative.
3. On the back write the book title and your name.
4. Submit to Ms. Bernard by Thursday, January 22 at noon.

Have fun!

Battle of the Books

The Golden Book

2008 BOTB Champions

Sign-up for Battle of the Books is now taking place in the library. Four students per team, please. Students may begin writing questions at any time. Grade level tournaments will begin in February, with the school championship taking place the week of March 2nd. Rumor has it that Mr. Mahler may be pulling together a team of teachers this year! Complete rules and instructions are available in the library. Remember, participating in BOTB earns each team member a point, and the winning team earns possession of the "Golden Book." Plus it's a really fun way to use your knowledge of all the books you've read!

Kathleen Duble

Have you read The Sacrifice?
This somber tale of how the Salem Witch hysteria touched one family is spellbinding! MCBA author Kathleen Duble will be visiting SES on Tuesday, January 27th. She will speak with the 4-6th graders and then join a lucky group of students for lunch.
Want to win lunch with the author? Here's how----Read the book and then give your name to me. I'll choose 12 lucky readers who will enjoy lunch with Kathleen Duble and a chance to talk with her one on one. Last year's author lunch with Jeannie Birdsall was fabulous-don't miss out!
Check out her website at:
http://www.kathleenduble.com/

Book Projects

Book projects are a great way to expand your enjoyment of a book. They are a chance to be creative---a book project can take just about any form. It is also fun to share what you thought of a book with your classmates and friends.
Today's bonus point highlights a book project created by Mr. Mahler. He has created bookmarks for each of the 25 MCBA books. They are very cool! For a chance at a bonus point, identify the books for each of the book marks. Write the titles along with your name and place in the bonus basket by 9:00 a.m. on Thursday. I'll draw 2 correct answers for bonus points. Good Luck!