Growing up can be hard work - especially where building friendships and getting to know yourself are concerned. Take it from Lexie, a first-grader, whose moxie is sometimes be overshadowed by self-doubt. Through a series of unfortunate events followed by help from a few unlikely friends, she discovers just how important it is to be herself and reemerges as the blue-tutu-wearin' six-year-old girly-girl whose powerful transformation is influential. Which, incidentally, is just what the 24 first-grade authors from Mrs. Latdrik's class in Indianapolis, Indiana desire for you, too. Buckle up, enjoy the ride, and get out that signature piece...BE YOU
Learning in Mrs. Sarah Latdrik's classroom community, these 24 aspiring writers believe that all students' voices should be nurtured and respected as active participants in Liberty Park Elementary's culture because kids do make a difference - especially where issues of social justice are concerned. Looping up from kindergarten into first-grade together, 'Latdriks' (as they are warmly referred to by their teacher) hold themselves to high standards as friends, learners, and citizens and work to positively impact classmates. 'Latdriks' agree their writing mentor is Todd Parr, whose titles like "It's OK to Be Different" and "The Family Book" shape them not only as authors but also as conscientious people who share this tale with you today. Mrs. Latdrik's class loves their daily writing workshop as an opportunity to experiment with important ideas. They ask often, "Will you teach us every grade, Mrs. Latdrik?" And, you know, she really could. What they do together is just that awesome.