In mainstream American culture, death is not usually talked about openly. It is discussed privately among adults because death is often regarded as a final ending. Nevertheless, many elementary school teachers discuss el Dia de los Muertos with their students. The celebration of el Dia de los Muertos, in contrast to dominant ideology, commemorates…

In the March/April issue of "The Horn Book Magazine," author and editor Marc Aronson wrote a lightening rod of an essay about nonfiction literature. In the article, he claimed that some "new" nonfiction is groundbreaking because it shows "new knowledge as it is taking shape" (2011, p. 57). He referred to authors of this new nonfiction as…

In this article, the authors explain how nonfiction literature can demonstrate the nature of problem solving within disciplines such as math, science, and social studies. This literature illustrates what it means to puzzle over problems, to apply disciplinary thinking, and to develop creative solutions. The authors look closely at three examples…

The accuracy of information in a children's nonfiction book is one criterion the seven-member Orbis Pictus Award Committee considers when selecting outstanding children's nonfiction books for the award. The charge of the committee is to consider other criteria as well, including the clarity and coherence of the book's organization, the extent to…

Notes that the selections in this cluster of books, intended for students in the intermediate and middle school grades, portray youth as they courageously take strands for environmental protection or against societal injustice. Summarizes 10 titles including nonfiction, fiction, and picture books. (SG)

Considers how literature can showcase the essence of relationships that enable and support characters as they develop voice, introspection, and the inner strength needed to transcend cultural and societal expectations. Presents a cluster (a group of novels, poetry, picture books, and nonfiction on the same theme) that provides readers with models…

Presents a "conversation" with Penny Colman (adapted from her remarks at a panel discussion at a recent convention). Considers that nonfiction is dominated by male writers, especially for young adults and adults, and by true stories that feature boys and men. Discusses her exploration of the world of nonfiction by women. (SG)

Uses Orbis Pictus Award Committee criteria (accuracy, organization, design, and style) to examine an informational book, "Rice Is Life," by Rita Golden Gelman. Subjects the book to a deeper critical analysis. Suggests that it is important to help students become critical thinkers about everything they read, including informational books. (SG)

Presents annotations of 16 nonfiction children's literature books (published in 2000 or 2001). Considers how to meet the needs of the children who are seeking quality nonfiction. Gives certain criterion for selecting nonfiction for children such as: the qualifications of the author, the scope and purpose of the book, and the information accuracy.…

Presents a nonfiction sampler of 10 favorite titles of the 1990s with descriptions of features that make them distinguished examples of the genre. Notes that the comments about the 10 picks focus on several exemplary characteristics of content, access features, and visual information. Concludes that deciding which nonfiction books to share with…

Presents three interviews with the 2000 CLA (Children's Literature Assembly) Breakfast Speakers. Discusses how Osborne has written for virtually every genre for all ages and discusses the new Magic Treehouse book. Talks about Wells' two Mother Goose books, McDuff books and books to come. Considers where Giff gets her ideas for books and discusses…