Every two weeks in Primary we spend some time learning about a different author and illustrator. Not only does this expose children to new fiction, but it also helps them understand the how a book is made. We learn about the path that led each person to become an author and illustrator and watch videos of the author explaining their process, including early sketches of books.
After we have learned about our author, we spend time doing an activity that is an extension of their work or a particular book. During our study of Vera B. Williams we read two of her books, A Chair for My Mother and A Chair for Always. These books follow a family who does not have a lot of money, and works hard to save for a new chair. The chair becomes a very special place for their family.
We have some special chairs in our outdoor classroom—two adirondack chairs that sit below our evergreen tree. These chairs are almost always occupied with children that are reading, chatting, or just enjoying a quiet moment. Today each child got to add their own touch to a tiny adirondack chair, making each one as unique as the person who crafted it. These chairs will go home as a reminder of our special chairs at school.
