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Friday, January 27, 2012

Calvin Can't Fly: The Story of a Bookworm Birdie


Berne, Jennifer. Calvin can’t fly: The Story of a Bookworm Birdie. Sterling Publishing Co., 2010. 32 pages. $16.99. ISBN 9781402773235.

Summary:
Calvin, a young starling, isn’t like his family members: he is a book-lover. While Calvin’s nest-mates learn how to fly and catch insects, Calvin spends his time reading in the library. He reads with a diverse appetite: poetry, science, history, and adventure are just some of the books that broaden Calvin’s mind. But when autumn arrives and the family is ready to migrate, everyone realizes that Calvin can’t fly. His family devises a clever solution that will allow Calvin to migrate with them. When Calvin spots a hurricane, he advises his flock to seek shelter and saves the day.

Curriculum Conncections:
This is a text that would lend itself to discussions about the social issues of differences and belonging: being part of a group as an individual with unique challenges. Calvin is teased, initially, for his differences, but ultimately finds acceptance in his flock. It could also serve as a lighthearted introduction to bird habits and migration.

Personal Reflections:
A book for booklovers, this story celebrates personal differences as well as the importance of belonging to a group. This title is another excellent read-aloud choice that will engage listeners to make connections and predictions with the text.

Awards:
Chickadee Nomination List 2011-2012

Age/Interest Range:
Pre-K-8; booklovers of all ages.

Genre/Themes:
Acceptance, SocialSkills, Reading, Family, Migration

Read-Alikes:
How Rocket Learned to Read (Hills) is another story about the impact of reading, though Rocket is a reluctant reader at first. This could be a good comparison text.

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