The Circ Files - September 07
Well, the first month of school was a real bear. It always is. I don’t know why I always expect it to be any different.
My collection has substantially improved since I took over in 2005. A collection development plan and an $8000 per year book budget can expedite the process. But, there is no substitution for having good books in your collection. And I don’t mean good books that just adults like (see Caldecott winners), I’m talking about the titles that motivate young boys and girls to read.
In September the most popular book in my library was Dogs Rule! by Daniel Kirk. The book contains 22 hilarious poems from a canines perspective. Accompanying the poems are full color, lively illustrations and a CD with all of the poems set to music. The beauty of Dogs Rule, is that its charm and humor doesn’t fit into one age group. It can be enjoyed just as much by five-year olds as it can be by fifty-year olds. When I booktalked it this past week, I had 1st graders rocking out in the story corner….such uninhibited enthusiasm.
Next time you’re putting together an order, make sure Dogs Rule! is included.
Justin,
What do you suppose is most enticing to the kids? The poems, the accompanying CD, or the creative way that music and poetry are put together?
Comment by Diane Quirk — October 5, 2007 @ 12:31 am
Hi Diane,
Well, I think that the focus of the book, that it’s about dogs, is the initial hook for kids. It seems like most families nowadays have pets (dogs) and include the pets in family activities like never before. The pet turns into a brother or sister for a young child.
But, when I booktalk Dogs Rule! the little ones are dazzled by the CD. I think that they are excited to take the book and share the songs with someone at home. I also think they love the added responsiblilty of signing out and caring for the CD as an addition to the book. They’re eager to prove that they’re just as responsible as the 5th graders. Usually they are.
~Justin
Comment by ashworth — October 5, 2007 @ 12:43 am