Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1541528
Often educators' creativity spills over into a book, album, blog or vlog, or other work. We showcase our members' talents: Lit From Within Compiled by Amy Peruzzaro Got something for these pages — a book, an album, a podcast or more? We lean toward content that can be used in the classroom. Let us know at editor@cta.org with "Lit From Within" in the subject line. (Check out past issues at cta.org/lit.) Making Connections, Emotional Journeys CTA/NEA-Retired member and former elementary school teacher Victoria Smith has written two stories about emotional growth for young readers. In Swimmy, the Secret Superhero: A Box Turtle's Adventures at School, a brave box turtle with tattered wings courageously protects her school, highlighting the importance of love and loyalty. Similarly, Liliana's Match: Finding Bella: How Animals Help Kids with ADHD and Anxiety is a compassionate tale about a young girl with a busy brain who finds connection and understanding with a special puppy. This story gently explores themes of resilience and emotional growth. Balancing Fun and Respect TK teacher and Santa Maria Elementary Education Assn. member Melissa Meyers has written Blue's Sleepover, which follows an energetic French bulldog's first night away from home with his Abuela. The story centers on Blue's playful nature, which progresses from rowdy and fun to a moment where he must learn a lesson about self-control. It presents a relatable conflict for young readers about respecting boundaries and family, and successfully delivers its message by blending humor with important life lessons. Exploring Trauma in Mythical Spaces Sacramento City Teachers Assn. member and school nurse Chaulette Palafox has written her first book. The Orphanage on Cheswick Court: The Hollowbloods follows 15-year-old Thaddeus Volkameria, who has been orphaned by forbidden magic. He is raised by enchanted wolves until he is mysteriously summoned to an orphanage at the edge of a cursed forest for children marked by dark powers. There, Thaddeus and his three unlikely friends investigate his parents' unresolved deaths and the disappearance of a boy from within the facility. Their quest leads to a confrontation with ancient sorcery and the Dark Hollow magic Thaddeus carries, exploring themes of identity, grief and resilience. Our Union 56 cta.org