Monday, July 13, 2009

Ms. McCaw Learns to Draw



Zemach, Kaethe. Ms. McCaw Learns to Draw. Scholastic, 2008. ISBN: 9780439829144.

In Ms. McCaw Learns to Draw, Dudley Ellington personifies several students I come in contact with daily as a Title I Reading Teacher – difficulty paying attention, fidgeting and academically challenged. Ms. McCaw is the patient, understanding teacher we all aspire to be and an “expert” in the eyes of her students. When her deficit – not being able to draw – is brought to the attention of her class, Dudley finds that he can do something well and can face his fears. This is an engaging story with an important message for all primary students; those who succeed as well as those who struggle. The reassuring tone to the story, as well as the colorful, watercolor and pen illustrations help to deliver this message. These illustrations have a humorous edge to them which would appeal to the readers and capture their attention as the children and classroom come to life. Students and teachers alike will enjoy this book due to the combination of its message and its presentation of artwork.


Karen Hernstein, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

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