Monthly Archives: September 2014

Ask an Expert – Can a Book Really Upset a Child?

In reviewing the Harry Potter series, I thought it was important to share with you not just my personal views as an experienced educator, but the views of an expert in the field, my dear friend, Dr. J. She also … Continue reading

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Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire by J. K. Rowling Here it is folks, Book 4.  In all of its Harry Potterish glory.  Now is where things get real as the children say.  Right here in this 700+ page … Continue reading

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Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling Book 3 is now in my hands, still a relatively standard chapter book size, but we sit in the shadows of the much larger, heavier books to come as Books … Continue reading

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From the Mouths of Babes

It’s important for children to learn to take ownership of their own reading decisions. Early on in school, we focus on helping them select the books that are “just right” for them.  We want the reading process to become independent, … Continue reading

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Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets by J. K. Rowling The second installment in the Harry Potter series already weighs heavier in my hands. Not even 50 pages longer than its predecessor, nonetheless, the hardcover version I’ve gotten out … Continue reading

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Starting with a Summary

Last time I warned you that understanding is more than just summarizing. But let’s back up.  Let’s talk about the basic summary, both in general and also in relation to the Harry Potter series. As I mentioned before, many people check … Continue reading

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How Hard is Too Hard – Grades 3-5

Usually I’m talking all content all the time!  Today I’m taking a break from that to talk to you about how to determine if the books your child is reading are actually too hard! Before Reading: A great resource for … Continue reading

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Harry Potter and Sorcerer’s Stone

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling As someone who genuinely loved reading the Harry Potter series, it’s strange to me sometimes to be such a strong advocate against it.  My problem is not with Harry Potter, nor J. … Continue reading

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It’s Time for Harry Potter…When is it Time for Harry Potter?

I was out of college when I first read Harry Potter and I fell completely and madly in love with it.  It was one of the books that reminded me, after years of forced school reading, that I did love … Continue reading

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