Read Any Good Books Lately?

I recommend, A Bad Case of Stripes, written by David Shannon and illustrated by Kathleen Westray. It is humorous book that addresses the not so humorous issue of "fitting in." The story begins with the main character, Camilla Cream, fretting over what to wear on the first day of school. Her primary concern of course, is impressing others. She wants to please others so much that she begins to physically change - first stripes, then stars, then polka-dots cover her body. Camilla pleases others at the cost of losing her own identity. Eventually, she is lost within her room, her eyes the paintings on the wall, her mouth the mattress. With some help, Camilla finds her way out of her predicament and discovers how to be happy being herself (and loving lima beans).

Most children can relate to this book and the worry of "fitting in." The illustrations in this book are as fantastic as the story. The colorful images jump off the page and draw you into the story. The suggested level could be K - 2nd or 3rd grade. It can be used for lessons in many of the core curriculum areas. A humorous addition for your teaching library.