Children’s Reading Preferences- USA and India

Joyful memories remain intact like a dab of honey on a spoon. Both are slow to drift away and resistant to removal. Although my sons are adults, I have sweet recollections of our summer excursions to nearby libraries and bookstores. My children strolled through the maze of bookshelves in hot pursuit of their next reading encounter. A library sponsored contest usually topped off their summer reading experience with simple rewards. Finding the “right book” was made easier by these summer reading incentives.

Words, Illustrations or Both?

If you’re looking for a picture book that sheds light on a notable person from the 19^th- 20^th century, consider tracking down, Gandhi, by Demi (Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2001). Not only would I recommend reading this book, I would also urge you to find other nonfiction and fiction books by this talented children’s author and illustrator. Demi’s words and illustrations should not be missed.

A Meaningful Anniversary

In the fall of 2004, I was driving on the Boulder-Denver Turnpike heading to Westminster Elementary. Without any warning, the car in front of me came to an abrupt stop. I slammed on my breaks. I breathed a sigh of relief. I had avoided a catastrophic collision.

Within milliseconds, I heard the unmistakable sound of metal crashing against metal. “Oh my God,” I screeched as I glanced at my rearview mirror. Another car had nailed the back of my car.

Show Me the Truth

Last Sunday, Seth Godin posted his daily blog. It was titled, “A True Story.”

In his pithy comment Godin stated, “There’s no such thing as a true story. As soon as you start telling a story, making it relevant and interesting to me, hooking it into my worldviews and generating emotions and memories, it ceases to be true, at least if we define true as the whole truth, every possible fact, non-localized and regardless of culture.”

Where is home?

When asked, “where is your home?” many will automatically recite their current address.  For others who thrive on nostalgia, the word “home” may conjure up past memories. Instead of their present abode, their response may focus on their parent’s home. People who are either unsettled or in a state of flux, long for something not yet attainable. A limited or vague response may follow. Whether one’s version of home is in the past, present, future or a combination of different points in time, everyone possesses their own version of home. For many, it is as simple as the adage, “Home is where the heart is.”

Timeless Indian Stories- Written From Within

I asked several of my former colleagues what type of Indian literature their students liked. One responded, the Panchatantra.  Huh, was my initial response. Yes, even after living in India for 8 months, I admit that my understanding of Indian culture is limited. A Google search came in handy.

The Panchatantra is a 5 book anthology of stories originally passed down orally and then later written in Sanskrit between the 3-5^th century CE. This collection of famous animal fables and magic tales focuses on wise conduct.

Doing the Unexpected- A Trip to the Taos Pueblo

Walking in and out of stores and visiting museums is only part of Santa Fe’s attraction. Outdoor venues are another draw.

Culinary Delights in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe restaurants are not as plentiful as the galleries, but the quality remains on par. We were not disappointed with anything that we ate during our weekend getaway. Two exceptional experiences are worth noting- Kakawa Chocolate House and Anasazi Restaurant.

A Plausible Whim- Driving From Denver to Santa Fe

How many times do you say, gee I’d like to do that? How long does it take before you actually follow through? Sometimes fleeting whims fall by the wayside since the idea is impulsive and lacks necessity. Other times nothing materializes. An inability to set priorities, a lack of available funds, conflicting events, or a loss of interest are the usual culprits.

Traveling Back in Time- History Colorado Center

Traveling to another place and time is a history buff’s dream. Now Coloradoans and visitors to the state can simulate this experience by visiting the new History Colorado Center located in downtown Denver.