Hello Friends,
There is no end to creativity, and one way to know that truth is simply to view a list of notable new books published in the last 12 months. In this month's feature article, "Best Books of 2024: Three Top 10 Lists" enjoy our tantalizing glimpse of 30 new books you can enjoy for yourself or give as gifts.
Whatever your educational needs, Foundation for Learning is ready to assist you with caring, one-on-one, individualized tutoring, as well as assistance in overcoming or coping with Executive Function Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Specific Learning Disability.
Please call 610-207-7811 or email betty.foundationforlearning@gmail.com for a free consultation.
Best regards,
Betty
Best Books of 2024: Three Top 10 Lists
Just in time for your holiday gift shopping, here is a list that’s been curated by the librarians and staff of the New York Public Library!
Top 10 Books for Kids
Aloha Everything, by Kaylin Melia George; illustrated by Mae Waite
This poem sings off the page, encompassing the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands. An enchanting vision of a girl experiencing her extraordinary home through lyrical verse and stunning collage.
Detective Beans and the Case of the Missing Hat, by Li Chen
Where is Detective Beans' hat?! In this adorably illustrated and laugh-out-loud adventure, Beans is sent on a wild goose chase for his favorite accessory in his most important case yet!
Everywhere Beauty is Harlem: The Vision of Photographer Roy DeCarava, by Gary Golio; illustrated by E.B. Lewis
Peer through the lens of Black photographer Roy DeCarava as we witness the beauty of 1940s Harlem. The unique majesty of the city shines in this illustrated chronicle of an artist whose keen eye for urban life captured the spirit of an iconic neighborhood.
Godfather Death, by Sally Nicholls; illustrated by Júlia Sardà
A poor fisherman sets out to find an honest man to be his son's godfather. Captivating and bold illustrations enhance this atmospheric retelling from the Brothers Grimm.
Made in Asian America: A History for Young People, by Erika Lee and Christina Soontornvat
The rich history of Asian Americans is recounted in this comprehensive young readers’ adaptation. These stories highlight the work of generations who fought and are still fighting to have their voices heard.
Mallory in Full Color, by Elisa Stone Leahy
People-pleasing Mallory has a lot of secrets. The biggest one? She is the anonymous sci-fi webcomic creator, Dr. BotGirl. When she joins the library comic club and meets a cute enby kid named Noa, will she finally be able to be her true self?
Mishka, by Edward van de Vendel and Anoush Elma; illustrated by Annet Schaap; translated from the Dutch by Nancy Forest-Flier
After fleeing Afghanistan, Roya and her family are settled into their home in the Netherlands. With the help of a new pet rabbit to talk to, Roya pieces together the story of her family's traumatic journey.
The Spindle of Fate, by Aimee Lim
After an encounter with a monkey demon, Evie is shocked to find out her recently deceased mother was actually the head of a magical guild. With aspiring warrior Kevin at her side, Evie sets out to free her mother from Diyu, the realm of the dead.
We Are Definitely Human, by X. Fang
From the cover, readers can see that everyone in this book is Definitely Human. When some Definitely Humans get stranded on the Li's farm, the family offers to help—much to their pet's dismay! In this comical story, readers will learn what it means to be Definitely Human.
When I Wrap My Hair, by Shauntay Grant; illustrated by Jenin Mohammed
African American heritage shines in this richly and lovingly illustrated book celebrating Black hair traditions across continents and throughout generations.
Top 10 Books for Teens
Bright Red Fruit, by Safia Elhillo
Samira's reputation as a "bad girl" means her mother is always suspicious of her. Her only escape is her poetry, and her work gets noticed online by Horus, an older poet. But when things start to feel wrong, Samira is left feeling more lost than ever.
Canto Cantigo, by Jonny Garza Villa
What do you do when your rival is also your crush? When Rafie's life is upended by the loss of his beloved abuelo and a move to San Antonio, his desire to win as best mariachi vocalist gets complicated. Will his new romance get in the way of his love for the spotlight?
The Deep Dark, by Molly Knox Ostertag
There's something wrong with Mags. She sleeps through school, family life is tense, her make-out buddy won't be seen with her in public, and she spends her nights in a dark basement. When a (pretty) childhood friend breezes back into town, will Mags's darkness come to light?
Dragonfruit, by Makiia Lucier
Hanalei spends her exile researching seadragons, hoping to understand them and the secret of their eggs that saved her. There are some who would use her knowledge and the seadragons' magic for selfish gains, but Hanalei's only desire is to revive a sick royal and return home.
Gachiakuta, Colume 1, by Kei Urana and Hideyoshi Andou
Tossed out of his home like garbage for a crime he didn't commit, Rudo discovers that there is a twisted world below his own. To get revenge on those who discarded him, he must learn to navigate this new environment filled with horrifying monsters.
How the Boogeyman Became a Poet, by Tony Keith, Jr.
A poetry slam / with the boogey-man / in the back row. / How can you find your voice / if you've been hiding from yourself all along?
Leap, by Simina Popescu
Bucharest, Romania: an elite dance school where its students go on to do great things. Ana and Sara become roommates, then friends, and then navigate their lives as queer girls in a less-than-accepting culture. Love's a dance, missteps and all.
Looking for Smoke, by K.A. Cobell
Big Sky Country holds a lot of secrets, like who murdered Samantha White Tail in the middle of her rez. Now four teens on the Blackfeet Reservation are suspects who must solve her murder to clear their names... even though one of them might be the killer.
The No-Girlfriend Rule, by Christen Randall
Hollis adores the TTRPG Secrets & Sorcery, but her boyfriend and his friends won’t let her play. When she’s welcomed by a group of fun-loving, cosplaying girls, Hollis starts to discover parts of herself she didn't know existed—and for the first time, feels like she belongs.
Snowglobe, by Soyoung Park; translated from the Korean by Joungmin Lee Comfort
The world is a frozen wasteland; only citizens inside climate-controlled Snowglobe thrive. When Chobham is asked to pretend to be her favorite reality TV star, she must ask herself: When you’ve spent your life outside, what would you do to get in?
Top 10 Books for Adults
The Black Utopians: Searching for Paradise and the Promised Land in America by Aaron Robertson
In this wide-ranging history, Robertson reflects on a diverse array of Black utopian visions, from the Reconstruction era through the countercultural fervor of the 1960s and 1970s and into the present day.
The Familiar, by Leigh Bardugo
Luzia Cotado uses scraps of magic to get through her days of endless toil. But when her scheming mistress discovers she is hiding a talent for little miracles, she demands that Luzia use those gifts to better the family's social position.
The God of the Woods, by Liz Moore
1975: A camp counselor discovers an empty bunk. Its occupant, Barbara Van Laar, has gone missing. But Barbara isn’t just any 13-year-old: she’s the daughter of the family that owns the summer camp and employs most of the region’s residents.
I Was Working, by Ariel Yelen
A remarkable book of poems that mixes humor about the absurdities of office life with moments of Zen-like wisdom.
The Light Eaters: How the Unseen World of Plant Intelligence Offers a New Understanding of Life on Earth, by Zoë Schlanger
It takes tremendous biological creativity to be a plant. Zoë Schlanger takes us across the globe, digging into her own memories and into the soil with the scientists who have spent their waking days studying these amazing entities up close.
Rare Flavours, by Ram V; art by Filipe Andrade
Young filmmaker Mo is approached by the zealous gourmand Rubin Baksh with an offer to make a documentary. But Rubin has a dark secret, and his tastes betray his insatiable nature.
Small Rain, by Garth Greenwell
A poet's life is turned inside out by a sudden, wrenching pain. The pain brings him to his knees, and eventually to the ICU. Confined to bed, plunged into the dysfunctional American healthcare system, he struggles to understand what is happening to his body.
A Sunny Place for Shady People: Stories, by Mariana Enriquez; translated from the Spanish by Megan McDowell
A collection of 12 unsettling stories where ordinary people living in Argentina, particularly women, must confront terrifying and surreal encounters with the supernatural.
You Dreamed of Empires, by Álvaro Enrigue; translated from the Spanish by Natasha Wimmer
What really went down when Hernán Cortés met Moctezuma? Definitely not what happens in Enrigue's brilliant gonzo account of the last days of the Aztec empire.
You Should Be So Lucky, by Cat Sebastian
It's the 1960 baseball season. Ordered by the team's owner to give a bunch of interviews to reporter Mark Bailey, shortstop Eddie O'Leary finds himself slowly giving in to the attraction between them—and when it's just them against the world, they must decide if that's enough.
Letter from Betty for November 2024
Hello Friends,
Since being prepared — even over-prepared — is the secret to success in many areas of life, this is a great time to get a head-start on your holiday plans. We have some sage advice to inspire you in our feature article for November, "Tips for a Stress-free Holiday Season."
We also have a delicious, simple, and timely recipe for you to try this month in our bonus article, "You Can Do It: Easy Fruitcake." Yum!
Catch up on my latest favorite book in our special feature for November, "What Is Betty Reading? The Defining Decade by Meg Jay, PhD.”
Whatever your educational needs, Foundation for Learning is ready to assist you with caring, one-on-one, individualized tutoring, as well as assistance in overcoming or coping with Executive Function Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Specific Learning Disability.
Please call 610-207-7811 or email betty.foundationforlearning@gmail.com for a free consultation.
Best regards,
Betty
Tips for a Stress-free Holiday Season
The holidays are right around the corner so ready or not, here they come! This is also the time of year when important school exams, final papers, and projects need your attention. How do you juggle these assignments and holiday obligations and expectations during a time that is meant for home, family, and celebration?
Below find practical tips to help minimize the stress and enjoy the holidays:
In previous newsletters we have mentioned the importance of keeping yourself organized by using a planner for time management and organization. Now is the time to put that tool to use. Write in your due dates, appointments, and upcoming holiday and family events that you want to attend. Consider color coding the events so you have a clear idea of how much time you are spending on different activities. This could prevent you from setting unreasonable expectations that could lead to stress, frustration, and disappointment.
Make sure to schedule time for yourself to allow for rest and activities that relax you, like working out at the gym, hiking in the woods, or listening to music. Watching a funny movie is great too, as laughing relaxes the entire body, and relieves physical tension and stress.
Plan your spending by setting a gift-giving budget for yourself, and if you’re using a credit card, do so judiciously. You don’t want to buy gifts that you’ll be paying off for months to come.
Remember to give yourself permission to say no to invitations and holiday activities in order to preserve time for yourself and precious down-time. Spreading yourself too thin will prevent you from fully enjoying the holiday season.
Maintain healthy habits and watch out for those special holiday treats. A little indulgence is a treat, but make sure to include fresh fruits and veggies throughout the season too.
Remember, to more fully enjoy a healthy and happy holiday season, prioritize self-care, manage your sleep schedule, eat well, exercise and set boundaries! Happy Holidays!
You Can Do It: Easy Fruitcake
A modern twist on the traditional holiday confection, this recipe for the best fruitcake ever uses a mixture of dried fruits instead of the standard candied and glacéed fruits. Not only are dried fruits more readily available at your local market, but they also have a deeper and more natural flavor (not as sweet). Ground almonds help keep the cake moist during the long baking time, so you don’t have to keep soaking it afterwards. From NewEngland.com comes the easiest fruitcake ever!
Ingredients:
Unsalted butter, softened, for greasing
3/4 cup currants
1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/4 cup dried sour cherries, chopped
1/3 cup brandy (apple cider can be substituted)
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2/3 cup ground almonds
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
8 tablespoons (1/4 pound, or 1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
2 large eggs, room temperature
Instructions:
Place oven rack in middle position and heat oven to 300 degrees. Grease bottom and sides of a 6-inch round cake pan with butter, line with parchment (a 6-inch round on the bottom, plus a collar at least 4 inches high to cover the sides), and set aside.
In a medium-size bowl, combine currants, dates, apricots, and cherries. In a small saucepan, warm brandy gently over low heat. Add to fruit mixture and stir to coat. Let mixture cool slightly, about 10 or 15 minutes.
In a clean medium-size bowl, whisk together flour, almonds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, and set aside. In the large bowl of a standing or electric mixer, beat butter, brown sugar, and citrus zests on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping down the sides of the bowl at least once. Reduce speed to low, and add flour mixture in three parts, mixing until just incorporated.
Fold in fruit mixture by hand, and scrape batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake 1-1/2 to 2 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Cool on wire rack until room temperature, about 3 hours, and serve.
What Is Betty Reading? The Defining Decade, by Meg Jay, PhD
The Defining Decade by Meg Jay, PhD, is a must-read for those in their twenties, whether they are graduating from college or entering the workforce. This stage is a pivotal time in life, as ages 20-29 are not simply an extension of adolescence but an opportunity to make sound financial and career-related decisions that will impact the rest of their lives. It is a chance to get a step ahead in many aspects of life. Unfortunately, many in this age group do not recognize these benefits; instead, they may feel entitled to delay work, travel extensively, and spend freely without considering long-term consequences. They might also engage in behaviors that do not support their physical or mental well-being. Jay offers strategies to help twenty-somethings make the most of this decade while still living life to the fullest.
Letter from Betty for October 2024
Hello Friends,
After conducting 10,000 experiments to invent the light bulb, Thomas Edison famously told a skeptical reporter: "Young man, you do not understand the nature of success and failure. What I have done is successfully identified 10,000 ways that won't work." And, so the story goes, after 10,000 more experiments, Thomas Edison lit up the world. Learn more about this positive mindset in our feature article for October, "Reframing Failure as a Tool for Success."
October is the favorite month for tricksters, those with a sweet tooth, and costume-lovers. To get us in the pumpkin-carving spirit, please enjoy our bonus article for this spookiest of times: "Did You Know? History of the Jack-o'-lantern."
Catch up on my latest favorite book in our special feature for October, "What Is Betty Reading? The Grapes of Wrath, by John Steinbeck."
Whatever your educational needs, Foundation for Learning is ready to assist you with caring, one-on-one, individualized tutoring, as well as assistance in overcoming or coping with Executive Function Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Specific Learning Disability.
Please call 610-207-7811 or email betty.foundationforlearning@gmail.com for a free consultation.
Best regards,
Betty
Reframing Failure as a Tool for Success
It is inevitable that at some point you will fail a test, fail at a task, or get negative feedback on a project. It happens to everyone. How we deal with that failure though, that’s where people differ. It’s very possible to reframe the failure and turn the experience into a valuable learning experience that may well change the way you think about yourself and put you on a path towards success.
A study out of Stanford University suggests that we start by asking ourselves these questions:
How can we learn from failure?
How do I react when I experience failure?
How do I feel when I do poorly on an assessment?
Do I make a judgement about my ability based on a result?
Is the obstacle, setback, or failure proof that I don’t have the ability to succeed?
Basically, it seems that there are two reactions at play. Some people seem to have a fixed mindset, where a person links a failure to their worth as a person and a telltale and decisive measure of their ability. This can lead to increased anxiety and a tendency to avoid challenges, schoolwork, and even the desire to strive in certain situations in life. It’s the decision to resign ourselves to the idea that we can’t meet a challenge, we can’t improve.
But then there’s the growth mindset, which is much more constructive. It’s a way of thinking that our ability is not set. We can develop, we can grow and learn new skills, and that we can face setbacks and come away having learned something by the experience, rather than feeling like failure is who we are, and how it’s going to be.
In order to reframe our thinking when faced with a bad result, we must ask ourselves:
Can I react to failure in a more constructive way?
How can I reframe failure so that it enhances my learning?
What is this teaching me?
Where should I go next? Should I talk to the teacher/Professor or an advisor about how I can learn this better?
Can I make a commitment to improve my efforts and develop more efficient study habits?
What did I do well? What went right?
What kind of information do I now have about how I can change my practices to learn new things?
Spend some time thinking about how they can modify their reaction to failure, and how they can use it as motivation to learn, grow and achieve everything they are capable of. Failure is an opportunity for growth and not something that you should associate with shame. Failure can be a jumping off point that leads you to try new things, try new strategies, to take risks, and importantly, to learn something about yourself.
Did You Know? History of the Jack-o'-lantern
Below find the history of the jack-o'-lantern, from the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.
It’s dark out. The wind blows through the branches, bringing a chill that isn’t necessarily due to the temperature. Suddenly you find yourself hyperaware of every sound around you, and you start as you realize you see a pair of eyes glowing at you…until you realize it’s a jack-o'-lantern. Happy Halloween, indeed.
You may be wondering how jack-o'-lanterns became so popular, or why we carve them out of pumpkins. To know the origins of jack-o'-lanterns, we have to go across the Atlantic to the fens, or marshes, of rural Ireland. In the early 1600’s, the legend of a shadowy figure began to arise known as Stingy Jack (Jack the Smith, Flakey Jack, and other names are also in the folklore and can be used interchangeably).
The most popular version of the tale involves Jack first tricking the Devil into changing his form, then trapping him in his transfigured state. Jack then offered the Devil out of the deal in exchange for not taking his soul for a long time. Some longer versions of the story have the Devil being tricked 3 or 4 different times.
Eventually though, time caught up with Jack and he was unable to trick the Devil again. Stingy Jack was sentenced to roam the Earth for all eternity with nothing but an ember given to him by the Devil to light his way.
There is also other folklore from this time surrounding what’s known as ignis fatuus, or false fire. False fire is an actual occurrence: scientifically, ignis fatuus is known as marsh gas and occurs during the spontaneous ignition of methane created by decaying plant matter in marshes or swampy areas. These two legends began to intertwine when many people in the moors of the British Isles saw the naturally occurring marsh gas, they attributed to Stingy Jack.
Many people in those areas also continued the Gaelic celebration of Samhain, with its rituals of going from house to house in search of food and drink (these are the origins trick-or-treating). As it was naturally dark in pre-industrial revolution Ireland, many would carve turnips, potatoes or other root vegetables and add coals or candles to create makeshift lanterns to help guide those celebrating Samhain. Occasionally these would be carved with faces, a tradition that continues to this day in Britain and Ireland.
The waves of immigrants created by the Great Potato Famine of the 1840’s, as with most immigrants, also had a role in traditional jack-o'-lanterns. They arrived in America to celebrate Halloween and were able to find a very particular new world crop that was much larger and easier to carve than their root vegetables of home: the winter squash, the most famous of which is a pumpkin. (There are also several French recipes for a pumpkin soup that suggest carving pumpkins for decoration as early as the 1760’s).
Pumpkins themselves were introduced by indigenous peoples to Europeans as early as the 1600’s, when tales of Jack first began. Several cultures mixed together in celebration of Halloween, creating the iconic pumpkin faces we still know today.
What Is Betty Reading? The Grapes of Wrath, by John Steinbeck
After a busy summer of reading and then transitioning to the new school year, I unfortunately have not had much time for reading. Nonetheless, I have started The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck, a 1939 classic that takes the reader on the journey of the Joad family as they leave the dusty plains of Oklahoma during the Great Depression and head west. They, along with thousands of other displaced families, journey to California in search of jobs they believe will be waiting for them upon arrival. Their travels along Route 66 are met with more challenges than they expected, and they are ill-prepared for most of them. However, they continue onward. I find the book compelling, not only from a historical perspective but also for Steinbeck’s detailed writing style, as he vividly outlines the challenges and resilience of these Americans.
Letter from Betty for September 2024
Hello Friends,
Every school year brings its own challenges. In kindergarten, everything is new. In middle school, there is a desperate need to fit in. High school brings worries about choosing the right courses and extracurricular activities. Finally, with the great freedom of college life comes great responsibilities. Read our feature article for September, "Overcoming the New School Year Jitters." for advice on how to overcome these challenges.
With the school year starting, fall and all that comes with it is not far behind. With that in mind, check out the delicious recipe in our bonus article for this month, "You Can Do It! Alex's Apple Crisp." Yum!
Catch up on my latest favorite book in our special feature for September: "What Is Betty Reading? The Five People You Meet in Heaven, by Mitch Album."
Whatever your educational needs, Foundation for Learning is ready to assist you with caring, one-on-one, individualized tutoring, as well as assistance in overcoming or coping with Executive Function Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Specific Learning Disability.
Please call 610-207-7811 or email betty.foundationforlearning@gmail.com for a free consultation.
Best regards,
Betty
Overcoming the New School Year Jitters
When we were younger, the first day of school brought with it both excited anticipation as well as unsettled nerves. Yes, we wanted to see our friends again, get back into our favorite clubs and after-school activities, but we were also nervous about who our new classmates would be, what our teacher would be like, and how successful we would be.
For learners in their high school and college years,as well as adult learners, returning to the classroom can be just as anxiety-filled, even though the sources of those concerns may be different. The classroom environment may be more intimidating and certainly, the campus will be different than school in your early years. Your situation may be different too, as you might be balancing work and family responsibilities. All that said though, you can still dive into the new school year challenges and kick off the year in a positive way. Consdier these tips:
Don’t Psych Yourself Out – you can do this!
Remind yourself that everyone gets nervous, and that you yourself have a track record of getting through similar nervous beginnings with 100% success. You’ve made it to this point, right? Remind yourself of past high school successes as you begin another high school year, and remind yourself of why you are pursuing a college degree as you enter campus. Feel proud of the commitment and get psyched!
Plan and Prep Ahead of Time.
Purchase and organize your new supplies. Treat yourself to a new planner and use if to organize your schedule, including important dates, deadlines, work and family commitments. Having these dates organized and laid out in front of you will make all the difference and will help to strengthen your time management success.
Seek Out and Make Connections.
When you are in the thick of your new school year experience, it’s easy to forget that you are not the only one who may be nervous. Say hello to your school mates, even if it is a little uncomfortable. Turn the conversation to your shared experience of starting something new. Introduce yourself to your instructors. Communication is vitally important to any relationship, whether it’s with your peers, teachers or professors. Striking up those relationships is a good confidence builder as you put together a team to support you. Additionally, within your team, you can support each other as you strive for success and encourage one another when problems arise.
Seek out Student Support Services.
If you need additional support at the college level, reach out to the disabilities office to discuss accommondations you may need or tutoring they may provide. If you are in high school and your school does not have such a department available, go to your Guidance Counselor.
Work to Stay Positive!
Having the jitters at the beginning of a new school year is completely normal. Remind yourself that you are in control of your new experience, your positive attitude can make all the difference, and you can succeed at anything you put your mind to. You may need to push yourself a little until you become more comfortable, but you can do this! Here’s to a great new school year!
You Can Do It! Alex's Apple Crisp
There’s a hint of an early morning chill in the air, just begging us to pull out our favorite comfy sweater. The kids are heading back to school, the pumpkin-spice treats are showing up in our coffee shops. Autumn is on its way! So, this weekend we’re going to dust off a favorite fall recipe from Alex Guarnaschelli, who shares it from her mother and grandmother. We invite you to do the same and enjoy this lovely, iconic treat too.
Alex’s Apple Crisp
Level: Easy
Total: 1 hr 10 min
Prep: 20 min
Inactive: 5 min
Cook: 45 min
Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Ingredients
About 3 pounds or 8 Granny Smith apples, peeled
1 lemon, zested and juiced, plus 1 lemon, zested for garnish, optional
1 orange, zested and juiced
1 tablespoon molasses
1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon powdered ginger
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup light brown sugar
1 stick (8 tablespoons) lightly salted butter, cut into cubes, plus 1 tablespoon for baking dish
Ice cream, for serving
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Put the apples on a flat surface. Cut the cheeks from the apple, to remove the core. Cut into fairly thin, but not too thin, slices. Put them in a bowl and add the lemon zest and juice and the orange zest and juice. Toss to coat the apples, then add the molasses, 1/2 teaspoon salt, the cinnamon, ginger, and the nutmeg. Toss to blend.
In another bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar and remaining 3/4 teaspoon salt. Add the butter to the bowl and break it up with your fingers integrating the flour with the butter. Spread it out on a plate or small baking sheet and refrigerate until ready to use.
Butter the bottom and sides of a shallow rectangular baking dish (approximately 13 inches long and 9 inches wide) with the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the apples and top with the butter-flour mixture. Put the dish in the center of the oven and bake until the apples are tender when pierced with the tip of a knife. The topping should be golden brown as well, about 35 to 45 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool a few minutes before serving. To serve, garnish with additional lemon zest and ice cream, if desired.
What Is Betty Reading? The Five People You Meet in Heaven, by Mitch Album
I have thoroughly enjoyed Mitch Albom’s classic, The Five People You Meet in Heaven, a concise yet powerful novel that follows Eddie, an elderly man who passes away, but before entering heaven, meets five people who significantly changed the path his life was taking. Each of these encounters imparts a lesson for him, such as the interconnectedness of all lives and the belief that lost love is still love. Although some memories are painful, Eddie values each one of them. Albom’s book invites the reader to reflect on the path their life has taken and the people who have changed them along the way.
Letter from Betty for August 2024
Hello Friends,
In this month's feature article "Flashback to Previous Augusts." we bring to light seven interesting and informative posts we think you'll find timely and relevant.
When I see captivating scenery in a movie or a show, I often think: "I would like to be there!" This summer's Paris Olympics certainly offers those visual spectacles, so we point out these astonishing attractions in our August bonus article: "Did You Know? Five Unusual Venues of the Paris Olympics." Happy armchair traveling!
Catch up on my latest favorite book in our special feature for July: "What Is Betty Reading? Pictures from a Trip by Tim Rumsey."
Whatever your educational needs, Foundation for Learning is ready to assist you with caring, one-on-one, individualized tutoring, as well as assistance in overcoming or coping with Executive Function Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Specific Learning Disability.
Please call 610-207-7811 or email betty.foundationforlearning@gmail.com for a free consultation.
Best regards,
Betty
Flashback To Previous Augusts
We have produced a wealth of informative articles published in past issues of our newsletter, all housed on the Foundation for Learning Blog, and we would like to share gems from Augusts going back to 2017. Enjoy!
How Your Child Can Stand Up To Bullying
August 2017
Without a doubt, bullying is violence. We are hearing more and more about bullying in schools, neighborhoods and even in our homes. It’s become so prevalent these days, that it’s frequently thought of as an unavoidable part of growing up. As adults and parents, we need to be aware of what is going on in our child’s life, and if we see bullying, we must stop it. Read the full article.
7 Unique Jersey Shore Spots You've Likely Missed
August 2018
As we turn the calendar from July to August, the first day of school is certainly looming in our thoughts. If you are heading to the shore one more time before bidding farewell to summer, we have 7 interesting, educational, unique, and fun destinations for you to visit. There’s still time to build those summertime memories! Read the full article.
Ready, Set, Go! Gearing Up For The New School Year
August 2019
We can hear the groans already as you read the topic of the article, but ready or not, summer is winding down and it’s time to start prepping for the start of the new school year. Yes, there’s still a bit of summer vacation to squeeze the delicious juicy fun from, but with the Back-To-School signs beginning to pop up at the local shops and on TV, this is our cue to begin early prep. In fact, if you start now, you’ll be alleviating some of the stress that inevitably comes from waiting until the last minute. So what can you do now to prepare? Read the full article.
Amazing Virtual Field Trips
August 2020
We know you’ve spent months coming up with activities for your children during the pandemic, and as we move through the summer, the temperatures are getting hotter and indoor activities are definitely needed. We have ideas for fun, educational experiences! From the safety and comfort of your own homes, you and your children can enjoy incredible virtual field trips, offered by museums, aquariums, zoos, and other institutions around the world. Read the full article.
Can A Little Boredom Actually Be Good For Your Child? Yes!
August 2021
Sure, we don’t want our children to be bored for huge chunks of the day, but studies have shown that being overscheduled, over-busy, and over-stimulated can result in irritability, anxiousness, physical complaints, sleep issues, and a feeling of being overwhelmed. Read the full article.
Hey Juniors, It's Time To Think About College!
August 2022
A parent of a rising high school sophomore recently reached out and asked if it was the proper time to start scheduling college visits. It’s wonderful that she’s thinking ahead this summer. College visits are important for any student who is on the path towards continuing their education beyond high school. For a rising sophomore, it might be a tad too early, but if you have a rising junior, now is your time! Read the full article.
Tips To Help With Your Scholarship Search
August 2023
Are you looking ahead to college? Here are some tips to help you with your search for scholarships.
If you already have a school in mind, the first step is to start your scholarship hunt right there. Most times the application for admission is separate from the process for applying for a scholarship or other financial aid. So contact the financial aid office at your prospective school. Talk to someone there about the process for application and what different opportunities might be available to you. Also, make sure to heed to application deadlines! Read the full article.
Did You Know? Five Unusual Venues of the Paris Olympics
The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics has featured an assortment of highly distinctive venues. Here are some of the most fabulous.
Eiffel Tower Stadium
Sport: Beach Volleyball. Capacity: 12,860. Location: Paris.
Esplanades des Invalides
Sport: Archery. Capacity: 8,000. Location: Paris.
Grand Palais
Sport: Fencing. Capacity: 8,000. Location: Paris.
Place de la Concorde
Sport: BMX Freestyle, Skateboarding, Breaking, 3x3 Basketball. Capacity: 30,000. Location: Paris.
Chateau de Versailles
Sports: Equestrian, Pentathlon. Capacity: 40,000. Location: Versailles.
What is Betty Reading? Pictures from a Trip by Tim Rumsey
While taking a short respite from my students’ summer reading requirements, I read Tim Rumsey’s Pictures From a Trip. Rumsey details a trip three college-age men — two brothers and their friend who is visually impaired — take as they head out west from Minnesota to fulfill lifelong dreams of discovering dinosaur bones in the Badlands of North Dakota. The distinct personalities of the trio, their various adventures and hilarious side trips make for a fun read. To add to the enjoyment while reading, I recalled many places my husband Steve and I visited when we went west a couple of years ago. Most memorable were: Wall Drug Store, Mt. Rushmore and Stirgus. This book was not only a delightful read but also a nostalgic stroll down memory lane.
Letter from Betty for July 2024
Hello Friends,
If graphic novels could sing, we might hear them warbling: "Please don't let me be misunderstood!" No longer the comic books of baby boomers, all grown up and sophisticated, today's graphic novels have many good qualities! Find out more in our feature article for July, "Do You Know About Graphic Novels? Well, You Should!"
Happy July 2nd? Find out why one might offer this salutation in our bonus article for July, "Fun Facts About Independence Day."
Catch up on my latest favorite book in our special feature for July: "What Is Betty Reading? Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand."
Whatever your educational needs, Foundation for Learning is ready to assist you with caring, one-on-one, individualized tutoring, as well as assistance in overcoming or coping with Executive Function Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Specific Learning Disability.
Please call 610-207-7811 or email betty.foundationforlearning@gmail.com for a free consultation.
Best regards,
Betty
Do You Know About Graphic Novels? Well, You Should!
We recently spent time exploring a newly-opened used book store and stocked up on books that we’ve been wanting to read and a few classics too. The store was chock-full of books in all categories and for all ages. We were happy to see that the aisles were packed with people who were loading up baskets full of future reads. One thing we found interesting was that in the Graphic Novel section, there were loads of people and they were all ages! Graphic novels are much more than the comic books of our childhood. These books are more sophisticated, in-depth, creatively illustrated, detailed reads, and they are intended for quite a wide audience. So we spent a little time in that aisle and then once home, did a little research into the phenomenon of the graphic novel.
Here’s some interesting info that we found on the Understood website:
Graphic novels can help with reading comprehension. Seeing images next to words can make it easier to understand what is happening in the story.
Graphic novels can help to prepare for other types of reading. These books can make reading feel relevant and achievable.
Graphic novels look and feel approachable. They give kids a more “bite size” reading experience.
Graphic novels feel mature (and cool). Kids can relate to them age-wise, as opposed to typical picture books.
Graphic novels can give a sense of accomplishment. Finishing one can give kids a taste of reading success.
But again, these books aren’t just for kids, as clearly evidenced by our visit to the bookstore. Nathalie Atkinson of Everything Zoomer puts it this way, “As the Graphic Novel medium matures, older readers are seeing their lives reflected in panels and prose. Authors and illustrators are now being recognized by literary prize juries.”
The Markham Public Library in Ontario has this to say about graphic novels:
"They come in many diverse genres and are great for even the most reluctant readers. For a long time, graphic novels were considered as the inferior form of literature, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, they help foster a love of reading and the presence of illustrations helps aid visual and verbal literacy. There are countless benefits to reading graphic novels for children and adults alike."
Graphic Novels Build Vocabulary
Did you know that graphic novels often use advanced vocabulary? There is a common misconception that the lack of text makes graphic novels less beneficial for language learners. However, fewer words does not equal simpler words. The language found in graphic novels is often more complex when compared to regular books. Think about it this way, if the book has limited space for text to tell the story, every word must count!
Graphic Novels Develop Visual Literacy
Visual literacy is the ability to understand, create, and talk about images. As we live in an increasingly visual and digital world, it’s important to critically think about the images we are exposed to on a daily basis. Graphic novels help simultaneously develop verbal and visual literacy. If you have ever read a graphic novel, you know that reading the text alone is never enough to get the full story. You have to interpret the images for clues on characters and plot development.
Graphic Novels Aid Comprehension
In graphic novels, images and text work together to create meaning. The images add additional context clues that do not exist in novels without illustrations. This is why graphic novels are becoming increasingly popular in schools, where students read graphic novel adaptations of classic literature like Moby Dick, Pride and Prejudice, or any Shakesperean play.
Graphic Novels Engage Reluctant Readers
Graphic novels provide a great alternative for children and adults who are reluctant to reading traditional novels. The highly visual content makes graphic novels more engaging and helps readers avoid falling into a reading slump. With so many genres to choose from, there is a graphic novel out there for everyone!
Graphic Novels Are Fast-Paced
Graphic novels offer quick-read alternatives which means that you can read more books. With graphic novels, you do not have to worry about that “to read” pile continuously growing.
Considering all you have learned about graphic novels, get to the library or to your own used bookstore, and dive into the Graphic Novel aisle. It just may be the start of a new reading adventure for you!