Magic and Whimsy Series: My Mama Earth

I stumbled upon this book at Books Inc. in Berkeley this week. I am adding it to my ongoing "Magic and Whimsy" list, of those special books that evoke feelings of hope, wonder, curiosity, and a sense of our place in the world. Frequently, the text in these books can lead to inspiration for culminating projects with students in grades K-5.

My Mama Earth is by Susan B. Katz with illustrations by Melissa Launay. Reminiscent of Cooper Evans's Caretakers of Wonder, My Mama Earth includes image- and action-rich text such as:

• "My mama paints the ocean creatures. Adorning them with brilliant features."
• "My mama sets the birds in flight. She give thems nests to sleep at night."
• "My mama plants the tiny seeds. She grows the flowers, pulls the weeds."

Use this book as a springboard for a group project exploring our world and all that Mother Nature has set into motion. This is a great book for a culminating project for December or May/June events.