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My Inquiry Project Description:

For my final inquiry project I chose to do a book review on Mo Willem's and Amber Ren's children's picture book Because. I read this book for the first time at the beginning of the semester, added it to my padlet, and have not forgotten about it since. I very much enjoyed the book and found many ways that it could be connected to the classroom and be used to foster valuable discussions with students. The illustrations were beautiful and captivating and another reason I found this book to be inspirational. I used the “Evaluating Literature for Authenticity" guide to direct my review as well as added a classroom connection to my review detailing an engaging project I would introduce to my older elementary school students related to this reading.

My project:

Below is the link to the google document that I completed my inquiry project on.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/156adsuv7TArGw9OnNcDNKxYRXo1Xu7e-1abx98m1D7o/edit?tab=t.0

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Sophia Hecox "Charlotte's Web" Book Review

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Sophia Hecox "Charlotte's Web" Book Review

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I decided to do a book review on "Charlotte's Web" because this is a novel that I grew up with. I included this on my padlet because it is a classic children's novel that presents such realistic themes that are important for students to encounter. This story really resonates with me because it is about animals and represents kindness and friendships between unlikely individuals. I used the topics of authentic literature to guide my review, focusing on the themes, authorship, and believability of this story.

For my activity I discussed character maps and how they would enhance the themes and understanding of characters and events throughout the story.

Link to Review:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1r_hKMAjwUELS3OUAyAVTe3ArVYcvLmNcJMBNmca-b_I/edit?usp=sharing

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I decided for my final project that I would do a book review of the book "The Dot". I chose this book because it has a lot of great themes in it such as building up confidence and encouraging students. I felt this was a good book for young students, but also for us as future educators as it shows the importance of encouraging role models or teachers. It shows how when we encourage our students and implement this idea of building up others in the classroom.

Personally, I found this book very inspirational because it shows how important self-confidence is. It also shows how when we put ourselves down or when we talk ourselves out of things we aren't getting to see our full potential. I feel that this definitely resonated with me because it was a great reminder in how important self-confidence is.

For my book review I discussed a brief summary of the book, I talked about the full circle ending, and I discussed activities that the students could do using the book to help with comprehension and analyzing skills. (character map/ x-ray activity)

Link to book review: Book review (Lexi Seekatz):346 - Google Docs

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For my final project, I decided to do an author study. This author study focuses on Judy Blume, a groundbreaking writer known for her honest and relatable books for kids and teens. It explores how she tackles real-life topics like growing up, friendship, and identity through characters that feel authentic and emotionally real. The study also includes classroom ideas to help students connect with her work in creative and meaningful ways.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oInMIrz-j4F4nRh-5JoefqHy2BXhc0lu4x9DXzW1T6g/edit?usp=sharing

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As part of my inquiry project, I chose to do an author study on Jacqueline Woodson because of the powerful way she weaves her personal experiences into stories about identity, family, and belonging. While exploring her work, I also learned more about how her career began. One of the most important books that really launched Woodson into the spotlight was Miracle’s Boys. This novel, published in 2000, helped establish her as a strong voice in young adult literature.

Miracle’s Boys tells the story of three brothers—Lafayette, Charlie, and Ty'ree—who are trying to navigate life after the death of both their parents. Told from the perspective of the youngest brother, Lafayette, the book explores how grief, poverty, and trauma affect each sibling differently. As the oldest, Ty'ree takes on the role of caretaker, while Charlie returns home from juvenile detention struggling with anger and distance. The story captures themes of loss, brotherhood, resilience, and the realities of growing up in Harlem. It’s an emotional and honest look at how family can be both messy and healing, and it showcases Woodson’s strength in writing stories that reflect real-life challenges with compassion and depth.

My Project: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13HYAHNECBPtoOnDM-jmJi-NhdVCUGs6ZGjbOgQBnvFI/edit?tab=t.0

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For my final project, I chose to create a thematic text set centered around the theme of resiliency. I selected this theme because I believe that stories showcasing resilience can be incredibly powerful and inspiring for young readers. These types of books often highlight characters who face challenges, setbacks, or difficult emotions, and who find the strength to persevere and grow. I think this sends an important message to children about inner strength, hope, and the ability to overcome adversity, which can resonate with them both in and out of the classroom.

In my text set, I have selected and carefully read nine different children's books that each explore the theme of resiliency in unique ways. For each book, I have written a brief summary that explains the overall storyline as well as how the book reflects or supports the central theme.

Link to my text set:

Personal Inquiry - Google Docs

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Jenna Meyer- Jacqueline Woodson Author Study

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Jenna Meyer- Jacqueline Woodson Author Study

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I chose to do an author study on Jacqueline Woodson. I had only read two of her pieces prior to this assignment, and I loved both, so I knew I wanted to read more and learn more about her as an author! I researched her life, read 8 of her books, provided a synopsis and personal response, and created 3 student activity ideas.

Here is a link to my presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1_cu7iPhE-m7HkWR64BJ9O2v227vHaE_Jhydo2brfAYw/edit?usp=sharing

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For my final inquiry, I gathered a set of ten different stories that in some way touch on or directly discuss equity. I have read all ten books and genuinely believe that they all have a place in elementary school classrooms.

Here are the ten books, authors, and summaries of the books:

Malala’s Magic Pencil By Malala Yousafzai

While growing up, Malala thought her pencil was magic and could solve any problem she wrote about. Once she was older, she realized that the pencil could not fix problems, but she could by advocating for education, equality, and equity.

The Name Jar By Yangsook Choi

Unhei moves to the United States and becomes self-conscious of her name, so she creates a name jar to get ideas to change her name. After a lot of trial and error, she decided to keep her name and embrace her culture.

Separate is Never Equal by Duncan Tonatiuh

This is the true story of Sylvia Mendez and her family's fight to end school segregation in California. Their bravery led to a landmark court case that helped pave the way for the nationwide desegregation of schools in the United States.

Nasreen’s Secret School by Jeanette Winter

Nasreen loses her parents and her legal access to education due to the Taliban all at once. This story follows her through her journey of attending a secret school while grieving the loss of her parents and the hardship in her country.

The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad and S.K. Ali

Faizah is self-conscious of her hijab, as she gets teased about it at school. She draws inspiration from her older sister, Asiya. She learns to embrace her hijab and culture despite being teased about it.

One Plastic Bag by Miranda Paul

The story of a woman in Gambia who finds a way to repurpose plastic bags in her community and inspires her community to recycle and clean up their community.

My Name is Sangoel by Karen Lynn Williams and Khadra Mohammed

A young boy moves to the United States with his family and is placed in a public elementary school. His classmates struggle to pronounce his name, and he becomes self-conscious. After some time, he comes up with a way to pronounce it that is easier for them to say, and embraces his cultural differences.

Ruby’s Wish by Shirin Yim Bridges

This story is about Ruby, and young girl in Old China, where girls are not allowed to be educated. Ruby rejects this ancient ideal of not being educated and goes out of her way, with the support of her grandfather, to gain access to education.

Beatrice’s Goat by Page McBrier

Beatrice grows up in an impoverished community with no access to education, but finds a way to use her new pet goat that she received from a charity program to make milk to sell. Beatrice makes enough money to help her family and gain herself access to education.

That Book Woman by Heather Henson

A boy who lives in a very rural town in Kentucky shows hesitation and little to no interest in reading or education. A traveling librarian shows up at his home with a selection of books and continues to occasionally make an appearance. The boy, Cal, begins to love reading and has a strong desire to learn despite being in such an isolating living situation.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1N9fV3xmQxhw39GFtYF5zCRu6xr5j0C4Nv8UilGOYVJ0/edit?tab=t.0

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Taylor Potter "Number the Stars" Book Review

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Taylor Potter "Number the Stars" Book Review

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I decided to do a book review on Number the Stars because it is a powerful and moving story that emphasizes courage, friendship, and the value of standing up for what is right. For younger readers, the book is both accessible and educational since it provides a meaningful glimpse at a historical event—the Holocaust—through the perspective of a small child. I wanted to consider how this book might teach kids about bravery, compassion, and history, and I thought it was vital to examine how author Lois Lowry conveys these concepts in a way that is both age-appropriate and effective.

My activity is in my book review at the bottom of the page.

link to review: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19-WoLxVrEgCLAmKYBX4tEajv_aThnz4gb9Z3RCNTnLE/edit?tab=t.0

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Carley Szuba, Alex Economos, Nicole Economos- Theme belonging

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Carley Szuba, Alex Economos, Nicole Economos- Theme belonging

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For our project, we focused on the theme of belonging. We each chose three books to learn more about and understand why they fit this context. This project was super eye-opening, and we all learned a lot!

1. The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
Summary: Unhei, a young Korean girl, considers changing her name to fit in at her new American school. With encouragement from a classmate, she decides to keep her Korean name, embracing her identity.
Belonging: The story explores the balance between fitting in and staying true to cultural identity. Unhei's journey shows how peer support and pride in one's roots can help someone feel they belong.

2. Julian Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love
Summary: After seeing people dressed as mermaids, Julian dreams of being one too. He dresses up and fears judgment, but his grandmother lovingly supports him.
Belonging: Julian's self-expression is accepted by his family, highlighting that true belonging comes from being seen and loved for who you are.

3. Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson
Summary: CJ and his grandmother ride the city bus after church, and she teaches him to see beauty and purpose in their everyday experiences.
Belonging: The story shows that community, connection, and perspective rather than wealth, create a true sense of belonging.

4. All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold, illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman
Summary: A joyful school day unfolds as children of all backgrounds learn and grow together in a space where diversity is embraced.
Belonging: This book celebrates unity, diversity, and inclusion, showing how schools can be places where everyone feels valued and welcome.

5. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
Summary: Children feel different for many reasons but find connection through sharing their stories and listening to others.
Belonging: Courage and vulnerability help create understanding. Everyone has a story that matters and contributes to a sense of belonging.

6. I’m New Here by Anne Sibley O’Brien
Summary: Three immigrant children face challenges in a new country but slowly begin to feel included as they make friends and learn the language.
Belonging: The story shows how schools and classmates help newcomers feel welcomed, emphasizing friendship and support as key to feeling like you belong.

7. Big Red Lollipop by Rukhsana Khan, illustrated by Sophie Blackall
Summary: Rubina is embarrassed when her mom makes her take her little sister to a birthday party, but later learns the importance of kindness and understanding.
Belonging: The book explores cultural clashes and family dynamics, showing how empathy and growth help build bridges and create belonging.

8. Where Are You From? by Yamile Saied Méndez
Summary: A girl is asked where she’s "really" from, and her grandfather responds with a powerful story about heritage and identity.
Belonging: The story affirms that knowing and valuing your roots can help you feel grounded and proud of who you are.

9. Milo Imagines the World by Matt de la Peña
Summary: While visiting his mother in prison, Milo imagines the lives of people around him and learns not to judge by appearances.
Belonging: Through imagination and empathy, Milo discovers shared experiences that connect us all, even in difficult circumstances.

Link to Review: https://docs.google.com/document/d/12uX7tQ9PetSvf8PocOVYFobeM3AHI14kxmewhTcsBts/edit?usp=drivesdk

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Mackenzie Ryan Kindness Thematic Text Set

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Mackenzie Ryan Kindness Thematic Text Set

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For my final project, I focused on the theme of kindness in children's literature. This interests me because as a teacher, I want to foster a positive and kind community in my classroom. I think that books are an amazing way to teach these ideas to students, so I would like to learn more about books that resemble the theme of kindness.

I chose 8 books that I felt resembled the theme of kindness and would have a powerful message to readers. I think that the text set I have chosen would be amazing to read in the classroom and offer a lot of positivity.

Link to access:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qIcuGroiaTGzO_ubxIJaudWhBLTxki0h_NGCEgM4oTE/edit?usp=sharing

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Final Inquiry Project- Kindness Ryan, Mackenzie

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Sophia Gruber- Thematic Text Selection: Resilience 

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Sophia Gruber- Thematic Text Selection: Resilience 

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For my final project I decided to make a thematic text set around childen's books that have resilience as a major theme. My text selection highlights stories of resilience, showcasing real and fictional characters who overcome adversity with courage, determination, and a never-give-up attitude. Whether facing personal challenges, physical limitations, or emotional setbacks, each character finds a way to persist and thrive. These books offer powerful examples for students about how resilience can help us face challenges and grow stronger, one step at a time.

Here is the link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dlneiVhEsR6_eq-516qoa0Tg9LUXuQg2x9E2xiQDRdM/edit?usp=sharing

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Ngan Nguyen: 'Beezus and Ramona' Book Review

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Ngan Nguyen: 'Beezus and Ramona' Book Review

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For my final project, I decided to do a book review on 'Beezus and Ramona' written by Beverly Cleary. I've only heard of this book through the movie from a long time ago. In this class, I had the opportunity to read this book, and I really enjoyed and connected with it.

This is a children's book that focuses on sibling rivalry and growing up together. Beverly, the author, included different emotions that both Beezus and Ramona have felt throughout the book. With the wild imagination Ramona has, she often acts on impulsive ideas that result in trouble and disaster. Beezus, as the older sister, feels annoyed and distraught with her sister's behavior. This leads to multiple arguments and misunderstandings. Towards the end of the book, Beezus is able to understand that Ramona acts the way she does because she's still a child. Maybe when Ramona is older, her personality will change. But as of now, Beezus continues to learn and be patient with her sister.

Here is the link to my book review :

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EdPupoAmDKgTtyzGjsvnQ64kgsoE-DHSTJzPGEzTsm0/edit?usp=sharing

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For my final inquiry project, I decided to write a book report on the novel Holes by Louis Sachar. I chose this book because not only do I personally love it, but I also spent the entire semester reading this story with a 6th grade student during my tutoring sessions in another class. She was always so excited to read it and looked forward to our time together each day, which showed me just how engaging and impactful this book can be for upper elementary students. Seeing her enjoyment and curiosity grow as the story went on made me appreciate the power of this novel even more.

Holes is a unique story that follows a boy named Stanley Yelnats, who is sent to a juvenile detention camp called Camp Green Lake after being falsely accused of stealing. At the camp, the boys are forced to dig holes every day, supposedly to “build character.” As the story unfolds, the book connects Stanley’s present situation with stories from his family's past, creating an interesting and clever storyline filled with mystery, history, friendship, and justice.

I chose to do a project on this book because I think it is a strong example of high-quality children’s literature. It blends important life lessons with humor and adventure, and it sparks deep thinking and discussion among students. Holes is also very versatile in the classroom. It can be used to teach about character development, theme, cause and effect, and even social issues like fairness and perseverance. Overall, I think it’s a book that not only hooks young readers, but also encourages them to think critically, which is why I found it meaningful to explore further for this project.

Here is a link to my full report and a classroom activity! https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yxFYkvtBDqY6WvBLYZandpFMPr6OXKPwd17rwpXjdZg/edit?tab=t.0

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Reese Halvorson: Thematic Text Set- Marine and Wildlife Conservation 

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Reese Halvorson: Thematic Text Set- Marine and Wildlife Conservation 

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I decided to create a thematic text set for my final inquiry project. The theme I chose was Marine and Wildlife Conservation. I think this topic is one that is super important to teach students about at a young age, so that they can grow up with habits that protect their environment. Reading the books in this text set gave me tons of new insight that I look forward to utilizing in lessons in my future classroom.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TDxjD8Cz9Gl3S2hslREa2djCzEezN72ETwY0HH7uHsY/edit?usp=sharing

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I did a book review as my final inquiry assignment of "The Good Egg", since I enjoy this children's literature author. This book also holds a deeper meaning, rather than being just a humorous and cute story for kids. This story with a deeper lesson to learn revolves around self-care/self-love and accepting one another's differences and loving them for it. I find this story to be a great way to instill confidence and self-awareness in young children without it being too complex. The illustrations support that exact reasoning for the book being a good choice for young students. My activity, although simple, reveals the ease of teaching this lesson in children as young as two about empathy, confidence, and self-love.

Book Review Final.docx

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I decided to do a book review on "Wonder" because I grew up reading this book, and instantly fell in love with it because of the message. I included this book on my Padlet because it's a great chapter book for young readers, and it has a powerful message about kindness, empathy, and acceptance. I think this book is very important and should be included in the classroom. I grew up with a disability and can relate to how Auggie feels throughout this book. No one should feel this way. You should treat everyone how you want to be treated. This book is great for any age as it helps all readers understand the message. For my class activity, I discussed a kindness journal. Students will write down one kind thing they do throughout the day and explain how it made them feel. In hopes of understanding how to treat others and be a kind human.

Link to book review: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mjSg18yNglBJ8wlSnpX0eIMsKHLc5CgUA1qf9d0Y5xc/edit?usp=sharing

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For my project, I decided to do a book review on the book The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. I chose this book from Padlet. I have always loved this series, and with the new book that just came out as well, I thought this would be the perfect book to choose. The activity that I chose for the book review was a Mock Capitol Broadcast.

Book Review

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lVeeRwlc6Icq1NHDbVcBMYYM1Olb2X6mlJznWfxnI8w/edit?usp=sharing

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Kennedy Senaga "Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone"

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Kennedy Senaga "Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone"

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I chose to write a book review about Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone because it is a well-known and beloved story that sparks imagination, encourages reading, and explores rich themes such as friendship, courage, and identity. This makes it ideal for engaging young readers and analyzing through a critical literacy lens. I have always loved this book and movie series, and believe that it's a great book that read for young reads.

Book Review: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CVMoC2HRGbn2YRe-o6zcYR39Zy4vpCRasnF1KTo1_b0/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.ssggxdau575xLinks to an external site.