I have to confess, I selected this book because of my own love of yarn. As someone who learned to crochet as an adult, I gladly admit I can never have enough yarn!
This picture book features young Annabelle, who finds a box of yarn that just keeps giving. Annabelle begins by using the yarn from the box to create sweaters for herself and her dog and quickly finds that the yarn supply does not diminish as she shares with her family and friends.
The pictures are simple, yet effective as the author weaves in a heartfelt theme of giving. This is a story I would chose to use in my classroom for students to learn theme. As Annabelle continues to give without asking for anything in return, her box of yarn continues to stay full. That is a powerful message for students to learn about what it means to share freely without an expectation of getting something in return.
Of course, along the way she did discover that not everyone shared her giving heart. That is a reality that students already know – sometimes people have ulterior motives that are not nice. How did Annabelle handle it when someone wanted her box of yarn? She handled it gracefully and discovered that in the end, everything worked out pretty well.
Ideas for Classroom Incorporation of Extra Yarn:
- ELA – theme, figurative language
- Social/Emotional – self-control, kindness, stealing, generosity
- Math – measurement, infinity (vocabulary)
Mrs. Kinnamore’s Bookshelf 
This looks like a wonderful book. I love the soft illustrations in the story. I love that the book talks about both sides of relationships with others, the good and the bad. I love the idea of using this book with teaching measurement. Great suggestion and great review!
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I think both books look like interesting reads. I agree with you on the young adult novel. I would be hesitant to share in my classroom as well, but like you said, the sad reality is that this could happen or has already happened to students in our schools. I think sharing a book with someone who has gone through this is a beautiful way for them to find healing in their tragedy.
I also love the yarn book. It reminds me of another book, Have you filled a bucket today?, because of the theme of giving and not getting anything in return. I think it is a wonderful way to teach your students the way to a giving heart.
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I think book of these books look like interesting reads. I agree with you on being hesitant to share with my students, but like you mentioned it is a topic that needs to be addressed. The sad reality is that this might have already happened or could happen to our students. If we are able to share a book with them to work through their tragedy, then it is worth the uncomfortable moments.
The yarn book reminds me of another book “Have You Filled Your Bucket Today?.” The theme of giving is so important to teach children. This is a book that I could see myself using in my classroom!
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You can’t be afraid to challenge your students and get them to think outside of the box. So yes it is your opinion about how you think a topic may be too sensitive is fine and I respect that. For me I think I would see how my students would react. If they react in a negative manner than I know may have made a mistake. But mistakes are what makes us grow as teacher. I love the two selections you picked and sound like excellent reads for myself! Great job on the blog!
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I agree, we must push our students to think outside of the box. I also believe as a teacher we have a responsibility to know our students. In my opinion, 9 and 10 year olds are not developmentally ready to discuss rape and sexual assault. In this book the main character was 13 when she was raped. We know from the headlines and police reports that child rape happens much earlier. In the future my mind may be changed, but for today this is not a book for my 4th and 5th graders.
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