I am a teacher. And, I can’t speak for all teachers, but I can sincerely say that I have never been excited to receive a figurine for a gift. I hope this does not come as a shock to you, but if you need some time, take a few deep breaths.
When you are ready, read on:
If you are looking for a terrific gift for anyone who loves learning or teaching, Our White House: Looking In, Looking Out from Candlewick Press is an engaging history lesson comprised of works from over 100 writers, poets, and artists.
David McCullough (who has been called a “master of the art of narrative history,”) wrote the introduction to this elaborate picture book for ages 9 and up that is equally as engaging for adult learners.
The 256 pages of Our White House: Looking In, Looking Out includes essays by both historians and nonfiction writers.
Fictional stories from children’s writers like Natalie Babbitt, Katherine Paterson, Jon Scieszka, David Macaulay (and many more!) allow us to wonder, for instance, what John and Abigail Adams might have talked about when they were alone together
Poetry is supplied by familiar favorites including Walt Whitman, Kate DiCamillo, and Jack Prelutsky.
Also included in Our White House: Looking In, Looking Out
is texts of actual speeches, memoirs, and TV interview transcripts!
The artful “illustration essays” tell stories completely through the pictures of artists like Steven Kellogg, Eric Carle, and graphic novelist Matt Phelan, among others! These spreads are a feast for the eyes that even a young child can’t resist becoming enthralled by.
Our White House: Looking In, Looking Out is rich in history, but it is not a “text book” in the boring, dry tradition of my school days.
This book is full of fun facts that delight readers and make our former presidents become more than just somber portraits.
I was intrigued to learn about Thomas Jefferson being an avid collector of dinosaur bones!
This book a work of art that will earn pride of place in many a family coffee table or classroom library shelf.
You can visit www.ourwhitehouse.org for web exclusives, history resources, and civic education resources!
Our White House: Looking In, Looking Out is available on Amazon.com for $19.79.
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20 November 2008, 2:23 am
YAY, thank you for this. Do you have any other ideas for holiday gifts for teachers? I think most parents have a hard time figuring out what to get for teachers.
20 November 2008, 4:41 am
I think my daughter’s teacher would love this book.
20 November 2008, 12:27 pm
Emil will LOVE this Can Can and *I* can take credit for being a cool mom. Not a word about it now , you hear?
This is fabulous…right up his alley. Right behind music is his love of presidential trivia. Jon Scieszka is what caught my eye!
Big and plentiful stars to you on your chart; thank you!
20 November 2008, 3:58 pm
That’s a great gift idea. I’ve never sent a teacher gift, I didn’t know you were suppose to, but now I’m glad I do.