Moving Toward Independence

We’re coming up on July 4—the day the United States celebrates its independence. Lots of picture books also celebrate independence, since it’s a crucial journey kids embark on. This includes my newest photo picture book, Secrets of the Loon. In it, Moon Loon has to learn LOTS of skills to become independent! To extend the fun, I created a storytime activity sheet and—with the help of my goofy husband, Randy, and several adorable nieces and nephews in Atlanta—I made a video to go along with it.

Use this with your kids or students so they can practice some of the independence skills Moon Loon has to learn—warning: just like real life skills, some of the skills are tough, and others are giggle-provoking!

[My Classroom Connections posts will share a way to connect one of my books or poems to a classroom topic–often something timely that you might be covering in the next month or so. Please share this post if you have educator friends who might be interested–thanks!]

4 Responses

  1. Laura, this looks like a wonderful book! When I was a teenager, my Boy Scout troop used to go to Canada for a canoeing adventure. The loons were always a favorite part of the experience. I’ve actually seen them here in Alabama, but only as they’re passing through for migration. I’m looking forward to reading your book.

    1. Oh, Tim, how cool! I grew up in Florida, and I’d never even heard of a loon until we moved to Minnesota as a grown-up.

  2. I love your video, Laura! Getting kids physically involved helps them learn. The cover and sample photos are beautiful. This looks like a wonderful book that both teachers and parents will want to share with their children.

    1. Thanks, Pamela. I loved writing the main text, and it was truly a labor of love for Chuck Dayton, the photographer and writer of the backmatter. Here’s hoping it reaches some families and classrooms!

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