19
May
Review: This Book Was a Tree
This Book Was a Tree
by Marcie Chambers Cuff
Find it at Your: Local Library | Local Bookstore
Published: Perigee (imprint of Penguin Group), April 1, 2014
In a Nutshell: This Book Was a Tree: Ideas, Adventures, and Inspiration for Rediscovering the Natural World is science teacher and blogger Marcie Chambers Cuff’s invitation to us all to (re)connect to nature through projects, science, and reflection. When I first started reading this book, I became instantly hooked when I saw phrases such as “explore more”, “think like a scientist”, and “try this”. As someone that works with kids in a public library, this book instantly became a tool of inspiration for future library programming for all-ages. You can find many passive programming prompts for families, as well as ideas for individual programs or even an entire series devoted to connecting with nature through projects and activities. Many of the craft projects such as building a pinhole camera, starting a flower press, or building a bee coop can be achieved by late elementary school-age/middle school-age children and older. Some might need adult supervision or assistance, but many of the projects can also be modified for younger children to complete independently. Activities such as stargazing, exploring, camping in the backyard (even if it’s only for a few hours), agreeing to spend “x” amount of time outside a day, journaling, and collecting can be done with kids as young as preschool-age. What I love most of all is This Book Was a Tree is that it reminds the reader to revel in the natural world and to take time to be outside, continually exploring it. I truly believe learning about science starts with venturing outside. As Carl Sagan once said, “Every kid starts out as a natural-born scientist, and then we beat it out of them. A few trickle through the system with their wonder and enthusiasm for science intact.” And have I mentioned all the sketches are all the author’s own creations? Take a peek:
Extras:
Visit Marcie on her website HERE
And on her blog HERE
And this video:
Source of Book Reviewed: Review copy provided by the good folks at Penguin.
