"Crown and Ode to the Fresh Cut"

"Crown and Ode to the Fresh Cut"

By: Derrick Barnes

Illustrated by: Gordon C. James

• Newbery Honor Book
• Caldecott Honor Book
• Coretta Scott King Honor Award
• Ezra Jack Keats Book Award

Hope all of you are well! Today I would like to share with you some interesting comments about this fabulous book!

In the Book

• What's this about? This book is about building self-esteem, self-pride, confidence, and cause readers to have an overall elevated view of who they are.
• Who is telling the story? The author shares various experiences that some children and people go through when they get a new haircut transformation.
• What does the author want me to know? The author wants to share with the reader the importance of feeling secure in your own skin, and to be proud of who you are.

In my Head

• What did I notice? I noticed that the illustrations help give the text more meaning, and relevance. You can tell that the characters in the text have a confident posture, and assurance in themselves.
• What surprised me? To some people eccentric hair do's, and hair design might seem vain. On the contrary, when you feel and look amazing, you are extremely motivated in getting things done with excellence in the real world.
• What does this remind me of? This reminds me of my hair appointments. To some it might not seem necessary, but it is important for you to take care of yourself, because when you take care of yourself, you can then tend to others.

In my Heart

• What changed in my heart? Looking good, doesn't necessarily have to be perceived as a form of vanity.
• How will this help me be better? It is important as an educator to speak into the lives of your students. Give the students words of encouragement, let them know that they are noticed, that they are beautiful. Always seek to find a positive quality in your students.

This book is a great read aloud, and contains wonderful illustrations that appeal to the eyes. Without a doubt it is a book that your students can relate to in your classroom, and they will also be moved into seeing themselves from another enlightening perspective. I hope that you guys enjoy this book as much as I have, and decide to read this book to your students in the near future!

Being Mindful,

Evelyn Portillo