Texas 2X2 Books

1+1=5 and Other Unlikely Additions

Written By: David LaRochelle
Illustrated By: Brenda Sexton
LaRochelle, D. (2010). 1+1=5 and Other Unlikely Additions. New York: Sterling.
Genre: Informational
Recommended ages: 5-9 years old
Awards: Texas 2x2 Reading List
Summary: This book creates unique addition facts with the help of detailed illustrations.
Personal Reflection: I use this book to teach students how to think “outside the box.” Children mainly think very literally, but by introducing this book the students have to change their ways of thinking to solve the addition sentences. 1+1=5 keeps the children engaged through thinking and solving number sentences. This book aids educators to develop thinking and reasoning skills for all students.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book for library purchase because it allows the children to practice thinking differently about situations.

Dinosaur Hunt

Written and Illustrated By: David Catrow
Catrow, D. (2009). Dinosaur Hunt. New York: Orchard Books.
Genre: Fantasy
Recommended ages: 5-7 years old
Awards: Texas 2x2 Reading List
Summary: Max Spaniel is on the hunt for a dinosaur.
Personal Reflection: This book is a great book for early reader to get their hands on. Many of the lines repeat allowing for early readers to be successful in their attempt to read this book. Max is a lovable a character that will grow as the reader grows. Max’s imagination and creativity will engage the reader and appeal to children as he creates his own dinosaur.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book for library purchase because this is the first in a series that young readers will be drawn to because of the funny antics of Max Spaniel. As young readers fine tune their reading preferences, they gravitate towards series books where the plot is quick and easy to understand. This gives the reader a sense of satisfaction when reading allowing him to want more.