REVIEWS


Te Giſt of Playful Learning is an inspiring professional resource


for educators who


want to learn more about play-based learn- ing using a culturally relevant and respon- sive pedagogy (CRRP) framework. Te book showcases how to offer loose parts within learning opportunities that connect to rich culturally relevant and responsive texts. I was captivated by the numerous pictures of learning opportunities offered in the book and scenarios of learners whose playful pur- suits were deeply connected to learning. I was intrigued by each page and compelled to create an invitation for learning the next day in my classroom to enrich my French Im- mersion program. Tis is an accessible resource regardless


THE GIFT OF PLAYFUL LEARNING: A GUIDE FOR EDUCATORS By Nadia Kenisha Bynoe and Angelique Tompson Shell Education, 2023 232 pages, $60 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ Reviewed by Laurel Mouland


of where you fall on the continuum of play, as the authors offer ideas on how to begin and how to create an invitation for learning. Te resource includes a digital platform that provides planning templates, photos, and additional ideas for program implementa- tion indoors, outdoors, and virtually. Te authors weave in stories and experiences drawn from classrooms they have supported that highlight the realities educators face


Birdspell by Valerie Sherrard is an emotional and honest novel that provides an opportu- nity to explore sources of stress and how we cope with the different situations. It offers readers a way to have difficult conversations through a fictional character who is relatable but safe. Birdspell reminds us that everyone we meet is having their own struggles, even if we can’t see them. Each chapter offers a deeper glimpse into


BIRDSPELL By Valerie Sherrard DCB/Cormorant Books, 2021 232 pages, $13.95 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ Reviewed by Kate Foster


46 ETFO VOICE | FALL 2023


the life of Grade 6 student Corbin Hayes as he navigates two vastly different worlds: his public life and his life with his mother. Corbin sees everyone as “outsiders” and has been taught to keep his problems hidden. His absent father, sick mother, unforgiving landlords, and even teachers have all con- firmed his beliefs. But when a classmate of- fers to give Corbin a talking bird, he starts to build relationships that he never imagined possible. By connecting with others, Corbin learns that even in the darkest moments of his life, there is magic to be found. Te book is an appropriate novel study


for Junior and Intermediate grades, with links to the health and physical education curriculum (social-emotional learning skills and healthy living strands). Birdspell pro-


daily. While the resource is geared towards pre-Kindergarten to Grade 2 programs, the explicit strategies and tools offered are appli- cable beyond these grades. Te Giſt of Playful Learning is a great


guide for instruction that facilitates curricu- lum and assessment. Te book highlights how play can be connected to the Ontario curriculum and how engaging with loose parts strengthens learners’ literacy skills. Guiding questions are provided at the end of each chapter to support you as you reflect on and adopt a play-centric program. Te book provokes readers to shiſt their practice and embrace new possibilities that lead to trans- formation. Te ideas shared are inspiring and easy to try. Tis is a must have book for your professional library!


Laurel Mouland is a member of the Elementary Teachers of Toronto.


vides opportunities to discuss topics of men- tal health, healthy relationships, and coping skills through a relatable character. Read- ers can make connections through Corbin’s thoughts, emotions, and actions, and under- stand the impact these have on his everyday life. Te novel gives readers a safe space to understand the connection between mental health and mental illness, and how to iden- tify possible signs of a mental health issue. Each chapter offers natural pauses for read- ers to make judgments and draw conclusions about what might happen next, and how Corbin might react in each situation. Teachers would benefit from reading


Birdspell on their own or with their students. Educators will be moved by Corbin’s hidden struggle and his resiliency in the face of so many challenges. Students will be inspired by Corbin’s journey to escape the cage of his emotions and feel free to let others into his world. Overall, Birdspell is an impactful read, and would benefit Junior and Intermediate classrooms across the province.


Kate Foster is a member of Greater Essex County Occasional Teacher Local.


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