Book Suggestions for March

Well, March is here and for this month I am using the theme of fabric and clothing for my reading recommendations.

The Fabric of Fairy Tales retold by Tanya Robyn Batt with illustrations by Rachel Griffin, published by Barefoot Books, NY. This is a beautiful book that retells seven different fairy tales from around the world, all on the subject of fabric. It's a unique perspective and a fun book for all ages.

The Memory Coat by Elvira Woodruff, illustrated by Michael Dooling, published by Scholastic, NY. For any child with an interest in history, this book is a winner. It traces the life of a young girl from Russia who comes to the US through Ellis Island and how a special coat gives her courage. The theme of bravery and love is powerful.

Weaving The Rainbow by George Ella Lyon and illustrated by Stephanie Anderson, published by Atheneum Books, NY. This is another gorgeous book that tells about weaving and raising sheep. How do you make a rainbow? Read this and see.

Coat of Many Colors by Dolly Parton, illustrated by Judith Sutton, published by Harper Collins, NY. Dolly Parton sang this as a song and says it is one of her favorites. In this book, she tells a story about growing up poor, a special coat, and a Mama's love.

The Spider Weaver by Margaret Musgrove and Julia Carins, published by Blue Sky Press, NY. This book tells the legend from Ghana, about Kente cloth, and how it was first made by a magical spider.

The Quiltmaker's Gift by Jeff Brumbeau, illustrated by Gail de Marcken, published by Scholastic Press, NY. Here, the author introduces children to the wonderful world of quilt designs. I used this book to introduce my Math unit on geometry. It's a great story and children can have fun using squares, rectangles and triangles to make beautiful patterns. There is even a link on the last page for follow up activities.

One Little Lamb by Elaine Greenstein, published by Viking Press, NY. This darling little book is perfect for the budding knitter, since it beautifully shows how mittens go from sheep to finished product.

A New Coat for Anna by Harriet Ziefert, Illustrated by Anita Lobel, published by Scholastic, NY. This book is based on a true story, where in war time, a little girl needs of new coat. Her mother, having no money, trades a gold watch to a farmer for some wool, a lamp for the yarn to be spun, a necklace for the weaving, and a teapot to the tailor and finally after a year's worth of waiting, has a beautiful red coat. A big party is held and all the craft persons are invited to celebrate. Anna remembered to thank the sheep too. It's a touching story of a mother's love and a little girl's patience.

Hope you enjoy these selections. Later in the month, I will be sharing some St. Patrick's Day craft ideas.