Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Loving this children's author

Every blue moon the muse sends a gifted children's artist that captures the hearts of the readers. My favorite new(to me) author is Barbara Esham. Last summer, Mrs. Gorski, I think I Have the Wiggle Fidgets was offered as a free download on Kindle. My nine-year old loved. loved, and really loved the story. Wiggle Fidgets centers on the mishaps of a little boy who has a challenging time sitting still and paying attention in class. Does that sound like any one you know? I also shared Wiggle Fidgets with my teacher candidates, and they were enthralled. They assured me that they would be reading these stories and building libraries full of Barbara's books.
Ms. Esham stories are based on real life educational issues that children face. Two other stories- If You're So Smart, How Come You Can't Spell Mississippi, and Last to Finish, tackle the issues of spelling and math problems that students may encounter. These serious topics are handled with humor and wit. Other books address cursive writing and science class. If your child struggles in any of the previous areas, I suggest Barbara's books. The books are like cognitive warm and fuzzy blankets. You and your child will feel better about the topic after reading. There are also educational resources in each of the books. My favorite contemporary children's author is Barbara Esham. 

Illustration from the Wiggle Fidgets