Good Morning Watershed Explorers,
Whether you love to read, like to read, feel it's okay, or don't like it at all, reading provides amazing benefits and can empower a person for life. Reading can also take you on a journey, as stated so well in this great quote by Mason Cooley, "Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are." This is definitely not the summer for many destination vacations, but if you still wish to visit a faraway place, you can always do it in a book!
Aside from encouraging you to read this summer, I also wanted to share a list of some really great titles that I have read that inspire a connection with nature. These are books that I have shared with students, read with my own children, and have also enjoyed myself.
Some Bugs: Angela DiTerlizzi
The rhymes and pictures in this book make it absolutely joyful. If you didn't love bugs before, you will after reading it!
Under One Rock, In One Tidepool, Near One Cattail: Anthony D. Fredericks
These three titles by Anthony D. Fredericks are spectacular. Each book shares intricate details about the happenings under a rock, in a tidepool, and surrounding one cattail, and shares the connection between the critters that reside there.
The Turtle Saver: Laurie Parker
This is one of my all-time favorite books. It shows how every act is interconnected and the ending is unbelievably sweet.
Song of the Water Boatman: Joyce Sidman
This is definitely another favorite of mine. The poetry in this book is wonderful and the illustrations were awarded a Caldecott. Caddisflies, dragonflies, water boatman, and many other pond creatures come to life in this amazing book!
The Lorax: Dr. Seuss
This classic story reminds us that every aspect of nature impacts another and that we can choose to either be like the Lorax or the Once-ler.
Raccoon Moon, The Robins in Your Backyard: Nancy Carol Willis
These two great titles by Nany Carol Willis will give you a yearning to learn more about raccoons and robins. Willis describes these creatures with such love and admiration, it's hard not to fall in love with them as well.
Reading for at least 15 minutes a day can increase your reading growth. Pick up a few great titles and get reading, better yet, read outside and get some of the benefits of nature while you're at it!
Happy Reading and Exploring Scientists,
Mrs. Morissette
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