I love when I find left readings in lecture rooms. Me replying to the empty room, “why yes I would like to read this. Thank you so much for thinking of me.”

Last one, Goldfish Boy by Lisa Thompson. This was a last minute addition and I couldn’t put it down (and my students said the same). Thompson really brings to life the struggles of OCD for a child in a loving and affirming way. Funny, adventurous, and heartwarming. 6/6

Melissa (formerly published as George) by Alex Gino was another beautiful read. This book is probably the oldest of the ones I chose, and the most American for my British students. They (and I) really loved reading Melissa’s journey. 5/6

Another one of my favourites, Thirst by Varsha Bajaj. I learned so much about Mumbai and the water crisis from this book, and adored Minni. Such a great read! 4/6

Next, The Star Outside My Window by Onjali Q. Raúf. This book produced so many lovely conversations about children’s ability to understand what some might consider adult topics. Love this book and really appreciated the author’s notes at the back for adults. 3/6

Next up is, No Ballet Shoes In Syria by Catherine Bruton. I really appreciated the depiction of Aya’s journey and the importance of dance/ the arts. Chose this books over The Boy at The Back of The Class, which I also recommend. 2/6

First, The Space We’re In by Katya Balen. I sobbed through over half this book. The writing is just spectacular—poetic, real, and moving. 1/6

First, my current reads: I was obsessed with Shannon Hale as a 11-12 year old and owe a lot of my love of reading to her. I had the urge to revisit them and they are just as delightful as I remember. Recently reread Princess Academy and am now revisiting the books of Bayern series. 1/2

Update. Activity was one of my favs thus far for my Studies of Childhood class. SO many good conversations came out of this creation project and the reflective sharing afterwards. Will be using this again for next year.

As an American I’m not sure I’ll ever get over that this is now my normal walk to work view.

If I could teach a women’s studies class I’d add the book Prize Women by Caroline Lea to my reading list. One of my favourite feminist fiction reads this year. So
So good!

There’s just something about a gloomy train station that deeply makes me want to drop everything, runaway, and become a novelist.

Some post-walk ramblings on this beautiful Saturday. :)