Christmas in the Trenches

John M wrote a song called A Christmas in the Trenches after hearing the historical story. Christmas Eve 1914 during World War I, opposing sides had a truce to celebrate Christmas. They sang together and  played a soccer game, sharing pictures and chocolate. For one night, the Great War was put on hold. To hear the song and see historical photographed, view the below video clip (7 min.) 

Authors/Illustrators: Janet Stevens and Susan Stevens Crummel

Author Tidbits: A Pleasing Bit of Information

Janet Stevens and Susan Stevens Crummel write with a conversational, humorous voice in their books. When engaged in their books, you will feel as if you are having a conversation with them, or at least are sitting listening to them read their books. Harcourt interviewed them about their book, Jackalope. They share some sisterly information your children will enjoy.

Susan Stevens Crummel is the older of the two sisters. She has several teacher tip activities linked to her books. For example, her book, My Big Dog, has lesson ideas on perspective and differences. She has pictures of family photos, including her sister, Janet Stevens.

Janet Stevens has illustrated many books. On her website, she shares about her illustrations and has a slide show of pictures of herself when she was little. In her “stuff” section, Janet has a link titled “Blue Jay Reading Group”. She writes a letter to 3rd graders, sharing her story becoming a reader. I love her line “Jump into a book like a cool swimming pool on a hot summer day, and feel it all around you.” What a great way to encourage your students to read. View the YouTube video about one of their newest books, The Little Red Pen.

Baseball Highlight

My son’s HS baseball team was selected as the WANE TV Team of the Week.  You can view the two minute video clip at the link below.  It’s exciting to see them play.  If you read my baseball banter post, this video helps you relate.

Baseball Video