How to Heal a Broken Wing

How to Heal a Broken Wing

Dear Friends,

                 As we embark on this holiday season, the month of December is special in the hearts of children and families all around the world. "How to Heal a Broken Wing", by Bob Graham, our December Book of the Month, is a beautifully illustrated book about caring for others with respect, patience, and understanding. By using few words, and wonderful drawings, Graham allows children to explore how best to be active citizens and caring individuals in a very busy world.

             The premise of this picture book appears simple: a young boy is the only person among a busy crowd who cares that a bird with a broken wing has fallen. Along with his parents, he takes the bird home to nurse it back to health and eventually returns it to its home. Even though it may seem straightforward,  "How to Heal a Broken Wing" is actually a very powerful story that shows empathy for others that can be used with children of all age levels. 

           The illustrations, symbolism, and message are sure to inspire discussion about empathy, environment, hope and healing, and these are all great class topics to focus on. Remind your class after reading this story that they should come away with the affirming message that each living thing matters and that an individual who performs a selfless act of service can make a difference, especially this time of year. Remember the old saying, "It's better to give than receive" as this book reminds us of HOPE for a more caring world to come.

Gratefully Yours,

David

See how some classes celebrated the book:

Gratitude Soup

          Lots of thoughts come to mind when we think of the month of November. But at the top of most lists will be Thanksgiving. Close your eyes and you can conjure up family, good food, and holiday traditions. "Gratitude Soup" by Olivia Rosewood, our November Book of the Month, fits right in!

         Research shows that whether you write weekly in a gratitude journal or share your gratitude in other ways, the benefits are many. Better health, less anxiety, higher levels of optimism, and sounder sleep are reported. Certainly a worthwhile reason to share this book with everyone!

       You will notice that the writing style has changed in this Book of the Month. That's another great class topic or discussion. Was it effective? Why? I am not sure why but I can almost smell the soup cooking!

      Before reading this wonderful book, think about gratitude. Have everyone take some quiet time to think of the may things they are grateful for; both big and small. After sharing the story, make your own class gratitude soup. Enjoy the delicious aroma and wonderful feelings a great pot of soup gives us all! 

Gratefully Yours

Look how some classes celebrated the book: 

Calvin Can't Fly

             What a great month for Calvin Can't Fly, by Jennifer Berne. As Allamanda prepares for the ribbon cutting of the Dr. Ben Carson Reading Room, all of our focus is on our passion for reading. We can say the same for Calvin, the Bookworm Birdie!
           The message from this book parallels that in
"The Best Colors." Boy, Calvin, is different. He immerses himself in reading and doesn't fly. But in the end, it is his difference that saves his flock.
          So, as the Allamanda family celebrates our love of reading this month, share "the Story of the Bookworm Birdie" with your classes. Keep flying high, Team Allamanda!

Until Next Time

Look how some classes are celebrating the book:

    

The Paper Boy

Dear Friends,
   
         What was your first job? Did you mow lawns, babysit like I did, or deliver papers as did the boy in our September Book of the Month: "The Paper Boy" by Dav Pilkey? It is a dark but satisfying read called "a throwback to a simpler time by presenting work as a desirable activity for children".
          As we share this book, enjoy together all the various messages in the little story. Can we call the main character a "hero?" He is not Superman or Spiderman but he quietly does his job, fulfilling his responsibility every day. What everyday activities do you find joy in? I drive to Allamanda each morning in the dark listening to the radio, thinking about our day. Do you find comfort in your routines as I do?
         As Cameron Farina said, "Books connect us to authors, to each other, and to the community in ways that are unexpected and lasting". Share with us how your group reacted to this book.Discuss ways to exhibit responsibility in the classroom and around our Allamanda Campus.

See you in October. A special book for a special month!

Marilu Garcia,
Principal, Allamanda

Look how these classes celebrated this book:

The BEST COLORS by Barbara Taff

    For August, we will be reading "The Best Colors" by Barbara Taff. 

     Not only is Allamanda well known for our passion for reading, we are also one of the most diverse schools in Palm Beach County, with the largest ESE cluster site in a neighborhood school. 
     The author hooked us as she described her childhood and always feeling like a misfit. She says she wrote the book "with that hunger for inclusion and a celebration of people's differences in mind." Taff continues, "It's more about what we can bring to the table." How like us!
             
 Once you have read the book, please share your thoughts and comments with us.    

We look forward to sharing next month's book with you! 

Look how some classes celebrated the book:

We are excited about unfolding this year's Principal's 'Book of the Month' project funded by the BallenIsles Charities Foundation 2014 Grant Award.  Stay connected to see which titles have been chosen each month, along with activities and discussions for each book!