Mystery Friend Friday - Meet Jack Prelutsky, Children's Poet!

Jack Prelutsky, poet extraordinaire, is our "Mystery Friend" today!

Be sure to check out Mr. Prelutsky's super-cool website - it rocks!

Mr. Prelutsky has been writing poetry for over 30 years, and he has the distinguished honor of being named Children's Poet Laureate.  His poetry appeals to girls and boys of all ages, whether they are looking for a laugh, a spook, or just a simple reminder of the joys of childhood.

"The clouds I watched this afternoon were flocks of silent sheep,

but now they've turned to smoky wolves that watch me while I sleep."

- excerpt from the poem, "The Clouds I Watched This Afternoon"

from Mr. Prelutsky's book, My Parents Think I'm Sleeping

How about checking out a poetry book by Jack Prelutsky the next time you visit the library? You'll be glad you did!

Happy reading!

**This post is linked to the Book Blogger Hop at Crazy for Books - click on the link to find out more about this meme!!**

Literacy Tip #7 - Let Them Read Literature They Enjoy!

Photo from weheartit.com

Lately, as I have been posting literacy tips about reluctant readers, I have noticed many comments regarding children's roles in choosing literature.

Always, always allow your child to choose what he or she would like to read for pleasure in addition to providing them with books of your choice! No child in the world will come to enjoy reading if he or she is never able to choose reading material.

As parents, of course we want to introduce our children to high-quality, well-written literature...and we must! However, as one reader here mused, "Reading is reading!".  I agree completely.  As children read books they enjoy, which may or may not adhere to the criteria of high-quality, solid literature, they build their literacy skills.  It is as simple as that.

Magazines, comic books, graphic novels - all of these play an important role in developing readers! Don't be afraid to let your children choose their own reading material - this is very empowering and satisfying to them.

Now watch your reader be off and running with confidence!!!

Here are some suggestions for graphic novels:




Reluctant readers also enjoy mysteries - I love the Chasing Vermeer series by Blue Balliett! I would highly recommend reading this series - super, super fun and highly educational at the same time!



Enjoy!

What are some graphic novels and/or mysteries your child enjoys?

Finally, here is the last clue for Mystery Friend Friday:  Who is the new kid on your block?