The Gift of Words

Book Pairing
Written By Linda

Just like you might pair a fine wine with a gourmet meal, JOYcabulary pairs together read aloud books: usually a narrative text with an informational text, or sometimes two narrative texts around a similar topic. When we pair these together, comprehension is deepened as students make connections between the two books.

December Spotlight: The Gift of Words

As we slow down during the month of December to spend time with friends and family, we couldn’t resist highlighting The Gift of Words by Peter H. Reynolds — a book that feels especially meaningful this time of year.

Words matter. In this thoughtful picture book, Peter H. Reynolds reminds us that even small, intentional words can inspire, connect, and encourage others. Jerome, our beloved word collector, is back with an inspirational story about the power of words…words of peace, love, and JOY.

Perfect for classrooms or at home. Download the free lesson below and help students discover the true power of their words.

The Word Collector by Peter H. Reynolds

Some people collect stamps. Some people collect coins. Some people collect art. And Jerome? Jerome collected words . . . In this extraordinary new tale from Peter H. Reynolds, Jerome discovers the magic of the words all around him -- short and sweet words, two-syllable treats, and multisyllable words that sound like little songs. Words that connect, transform, and empower.

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The Gift of Words by Peter H. Reynolds

Jerome is looking forward to collecting words this holiday season! Words of hope, love, and joy to share with his loved ones. But as he begins his search, he discovers that inspirational words are hard to come by. In the end, Jerome finds a way to connect with his community and join together in sharing the greatest gift of all: the gift of words.

Lesson Plan
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Linda

Linda Szakmary has five decades of experience working as a classroom teacher, a district curriculum writer, a district facilitator of K-5 writing, and as a county K-8 literacy coach. She now works for Sullivan and Orange-Ulster BOCES as a content specialist. A poetry advocate and a lover of words and children’s literature, she has been a presenter at several state-wide conferences on vocabulary and writing. Currently, she is working with the staff developers of Mossflower to study intermediate vocabulary instruction within a reading workshop. Linda lives in Stone Ridge, NY where she enjoys gardening, yoga, reading, and rooting for the Yankees. You can often find her on a beach searching for sea glass.

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