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Part 4: Blessing the Book with Sharon Callen

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Blessing the Book: Exploring Picture Books with Sharon Callen – Part 4

Picture books hold a special place in a child's life, offering them a chance to explore the world, their emotions, and the complexities of life through art and words. In the fourth part of her podcast series, Sharon Callen brings to light the importance of "blessing the book," a practice that enriches both the teacher and the student's experience with literature. By sharing a selection of carefully chosen picture books, Sharon highlights how these stories foster meaningful conversations in the classroom, encouraging children to navigate real-world themes like hope, resilience, and connection.

Let's explore how Sharon introduces these captivating picture books, discussing their potential to make an emotional impact on students and inspire rich classroom discussions.

"The Garden at the End of the World" by Cassy Polimeni and Briony Stewart: A Tale of Hope

This beautifully illustrated book introduces readers to the Global Seed Vault in Norway, a place where seeds are stored to protect the future of plant life. Through the eyes of young Isla and her botanist mother, the story explores the theme of hope—specifically, the hope that future generations will benefit from the world's preserved natural resources. Sharon appreciates how the lyrical prose transforms this scientific subject into a deeply moving tale about protecting nature's treasures.

For teachers, this book offers an entry point to discussions about environmental conservation and the importance of safeguarding our planet. Its delicate balance between information and emotion allows children to grasp big ideas in an accessible and inspiring way.

"Mizuto and the Wind" by Kaye Baillie and Luisa Gioffre-Suzuki: Navigating Grief and Healing

"Mizuto and the Wind" tells the true story of a Japanese boy who uses the "Telephone of the Wind" to communicate with loved ones lost in a tsunami. This heart-wrenching yet healing narrative helps students explore themes of grief, hope, and connection through nature. The story is based on a real-life phone booth created by a man grieving the loss of his family, making the emotional journey resonate even more with readers.

Sharon emphasises how this book offers an opportunity for teachers to discuss resilience and loss in a sensitive, thoughtful way. The illustrations evoke both the tragedy and the calm that follows, creating a safe space for children to explore their emotions and the healing power of human connection.

"Eat My Dust" by Nerida McMullin and Lucia Masciullo: Women Pioneers in Australian History

Set in 1928, this lively story follows the adventures of Jean Robertson and Kathleen Howell, two fearless Australian women who mapped the country and set speed records in the process. Sharon points out how this book brings history alive for children in a fun, adventurous way, making historical events accessible and exciting.

For teachers, "Eat My Dust" is a fantastic model for narrative writing. It demonstrates how historical events can be woven into engaging, character-driven stories that inspire young readers. Students can see history not as something distant but as something vibrant and full of personal heroism.

"Whisper on the Wind" by Claire Saxby and Jess Racklyeft: The Power of Cumulative Storytelling

"Whisper on the Wind" takes a cumulative storytelling approach, much like the classic "This Is the House That Jack Built." Each page builds upon the last, following a dream carried by wind and waves. Sharon highlights how the structure of this book creates a mesmerizing rhythm, perfect for read-aloud sessions.

This book allows teachers to introduce students to cumulative story structures, helping them understand how repetition and rhythm can enhance storytelling. The lyrical nature of the text, combined with its soothing illustrations, makes it an ideal choice for sparking discussions about love, connection, and the power of storytelling.

"The Tree at Number 43" by Jess McGeachin: An Environmental Call to Action

In this story, Sam and his grandpa escape their noisy, crowded city to dream of a magical jungle where trees reach the sky. When their dream comes true, they must work together to protect it. Sharon appreciates how this book taps into children's imagination while addressing the important theme of environmental conservation.

For teachers, "The Tree at Number 43" provides a powerful narrative that encourages students to think about their role in protecting natural spaces. Its combination of imaginative storytelling and stunning illustrations offers a platform to discuss the magic of nature and the need to preserve it.

"Old Fellow" by Christopher Cheng and Liz Anelli: The Beauty of Everyday Moments

"Old Fellow" is a gentle story about the daily routine shared by an old man and his dog. Through simple yet profound moments, the book emphasizes the importance of community, companionship, and finding joy in everyday life. Sharon notes how the quiet beauty of this story can resonate with students, especially when discussing themes of aging, friendship, and routine.

Teachers can use this book to prompt reflections on how small moments of kindness and connection can have a lasting impact. The illustrations, which capture the quiet routine of the old man and his dog, complement the tender narrative, making this a perfect book for fostering empathy and reflection.

"Mama's Chickens" by Michelle Worthington and Nicky Johnston: Navigating Dementia with Love

In "Mama's Chickens," a mother struggling with memory loss finds joy in her backyard chickens, offering a touching portrayal of dementia. Sharon acknowledges how this book can serve as both a mirror and a window for students—reflecting the experiences of children with family members facing memory loss, and providing understanding for those unfamiliar with the condition.

Teachers can use this story to spark conversations about memory, family, and care, making it a compassionate choice for classrooms where sensitive, real-world issues are explored through literature.

"Egg" by Clare Atkins and Harrison Vial: Fear of the Unknown

"Egg" is an allegorical story about fear of the unfamiliar, as a mysterious object washes up on an island full of eggs. One brave egg befriends the newcomer, challenging others to overcome their fear. Sharon points out how the book's simple text opens the door for deep conversations about inclusion, diversity, and friendship.

For teachers, "Egg" offers a wonderful opportunity to address issues of fear and acceptance in today's world. Its minimalistic language allows for thoughtful discussion, giving students space to explore their feelings about difference and belonging.

"A Feather on a Wing" by Maria Speyer: A Dreamy Journey of Connection

In this poetic story, a little girl embarks on an imaginative journey to find her place in the world, guided by her sister. Sharon highlights how the themes of connection and belonging create a calming, reflective mood for readers.

This book serves as a gentle reminder for teachers and students alike to explore their own sense of self in relation to the world. Its soft illustrations and soothing narrative offer a moment of peace and introspection in the classroom.

Conclusion: Blessing Books for a Deeper Classroom Experience

Sharon Callen's exploration of these picture books reminds us of the power stories have in shaping young minds. By blessing the books we share, we offer children not just entertainment, but tools to navigate emotions, explore complex themes, and connect with the world around them. Each of the books discussed provides teachers with rich opportunities to inspire classroom discussions, student writing, and a love of reading that lasts a lifetime.

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