Twin+Texts

=Twin Texts= = = =We will use this page to record recommendations of twin texts - fiction and non-fiction (informational texts) on the same subject. You can also include any strategies and special advise for using these twin texts.=

Topic: Oceans
==Fiction: __See the Ocean__ by Estelle Condra This book tells the story of a family who travels to the ocean on vacation each year. The ocean is described by the three children in the story with a surprise ending of a beautifully written description from the young girl who we discover is blind. ,==

Informational: __Hello Ocean__ by Pam Munoz Ryan This book uses descriptive words and detailed pictures to describe the ocean through the fine senses. (recommended by Marsha Goldstein)
Topic: Penguins Fiction: Happy Feet The Movie Storybook (no author) This book basically highlights the movie about a penguin who doesn't fit in. He goes on a search to find his "song". A truly heartwarming story! Informational: Penguins by Gail Gibbons This book uses several conventions of nonfiction to explain mostly everything there is to know about penguins. The pictures are great and really support the text. ~Desiree' Caldwell

Topic: Spiders Fiction: Charlotte's Web Wilbur Finds a Friend by Jennifer Frantz This book highlights the part of the movie where Wilbur and Charlotte become friends. It also includes one of the parts where Charlotte weaves a message in her web. Informational: Mighty Spiders by Fay Robinson This is a very basic book (1st grade reading level) that tells where spiders are found, the different kinds and their special job. The pictures greatly support the text and are very vivid. ~Desiree' Caldwell

When I do an author study on Chris Van Allsburg, I read the following nonfiction books about ants before I start the study with __Two Bad Ants__; __Thinking About Ants__ by Charles Micucci __The Life and Times of the Ant__ by Charles Micucci. I like to show the students that a fiction author has to do his/her research to add detail to the story. Liz Stern