Teaching With Sahara Special

Of a few weeks ago I asked for recommendations on new books to consider for literature studies in my classroom. A number of people recommended Sahara Special by Esme Raji Codell.  I immediately put it in my Amazon cart (Isn’t that just so easy to do?) and last weekend I read it in one sitting.

I have to admit… I finished it and wasn’t quite sure what to think. I loved the story and the concept, but I was very intrigued by the writing style.  The story unfolds rather gradually, and I felt myself wanting to go back and reread the first few chapters to make sure I really understood the subtle nuances of the language.
As the story unfolded, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the main character, the teacher, and even Sahara’s mom.  I thought about Mr. Falker as I read…I thought about my students as I read…and I thought about the parents of my students and how so many of them must be frustrated with the system.

I’m curious to know know what all of you think…who do you read this book with?  How do students react?  Do they “get it” and really start to understand Sahara more deeply?  Fill me in!  I am super curious to know your thoughts.

I am starting to get my collection of spring break reading ready…some children’s book and some professional books and some “me” books.  I’m taking suggestions!

Here’s the first one on the list…

Chime in with some great suggestions that we can all take advantage of–and I am REALLY looking forward to hearing from anyone who has read Sahara Special with a class or a small group.  Spill it!  Thanks for stopping by…
Meg

Meg

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