The Mysteries of Harris Burdick

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Summary: The Mysteries of Harris Burdick
Review: I am always on the look out for children's books that can be used in a high school classroom. All of Chris Van Allsburg's books are wonderful but this one will be great for the English classroom. Most students have great difficulty in writing. This book gives the students a starting point and at the same time begins to fuel their imagination. What better way to begin a creative writing assignment than by showing one of the pictures with the title and first line from the story. Anyone who believes this book is just for younger children has a closed mind.

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Summary: Middle School English Teacher's Dream Book
Review: I teach English 8 in a middle school setting, and my student writers tend to grumble and struggle with writing longer pieces of fiction. Whenever I display one of the illustrations in this portfolio, my students get out of their seats and rush for the display easel. They ooh and ahh. Then they start thinking and talking about the stories that pop into their heads--all of them different. They get to work with happy faces and elaborate tales with bright-eyed energy. When they are finished, they can't wait to read to the class. All upper grade English teachers should have this book/portfolio in their bag of magic tricks. Me? I'm waiting for the Mysteries of Harris Burdick Part 2.

Rating:
Summary: Very Memorable
Review: This book will get ANYONE writing. Great for kids, but probably better for adults who've forgetten how to use their imaginiations.