Part 4: Blessing the Book with Sharon Callen

In Blessing the Book: Exploring Picture Books with Sharon Callen – Part 4, listeners are once again invited into the world of children’s literature as Sharon Callen shares her insightful exploration of picture books that captivate the imagination while addressing real-world themes.  In this episode, Sharon highlights how carefully chosen picture books can be powerful tools for teachers, offering both joyful escapism and meaningful engagement with complex topics like grief, resilience, and environmental stewardship. Sharon dives into a series of picture books that exemplify the magic of storytelling for young readers. From the heartwarming journey in The Garden at the End of the World by Cassy Polimeni and Briony Stewart, which teaches hope through the Global Seed Vault, to the poignant Mizuto and the Wind by Kaye Baillie and Luisa Gioffre-Suzuki, which gently addresses loss and healing, these stories offer profound learning experiences.  She also delves into Eat My Dust, a historical adventure that brings to life the fearless contributions of women to Australia's history. Sharon explains how each book can be a “mirror” for children to see themselves or a “window” to experience new perspectives. From the lyrical flow of Whisper on the Wind to the thought-provoking themes in Egg by Clare Atkins, she emphasises how these books can inspire deep conversations about community, diversity, and belonging. Through this engaging and thought-provoking episode, Sharon encourages educators to not just read picture books, but to bless them—inviting students into narratives that spark curiosity, foster emotional growth, and broaden their understanding of the world. The episode underscores the power of stories to connect us all, no matter our age. RESOURCES Books:The Garden at the End of the World by Cassy Polimeni and Briony Stewart Mizuto and the Wind by Kaye Baillie and Luisa Gioffre-SuzukiEat My Dust by Nerida McMullin and Lucia MasciulloWhisper on the Wind by Claire Saxby and Jess RacklyeftThe Tree at Number 43 by Jess McGeachinOld Fellow by Christopher Cheng and Liz AnelliMama’s Chickens by Michelle Worthington and Nicky JohnstonEgg by Clare Atkins and Harrison VialA Feather on a Wing by Maria SpeyerHope is the Thing by Johanna Bell and Erica Wagner Podcast:Read Aloud: Mem Fox on Capturing hearts and Minds through Literature JOIN TEACHIFIC NOW AND SAVE!Join Teachific  today. Access thousands of resources and a growing number of 'anytime' courses within your membership. FURTHER INFORMATION Tune in to "Teacher's Tool Kit For Literacy," a free podcast where accomplished literacy educator Sharon Callen and her team share valuable insights and tips. With over 30 years of experience, they provide strategic learning solutions to empower teachers and leaders worldwide.  Subscribe on your favourite platform for exclusive literacy learning content.  Apple, Spotify,  Google, YouTubeRead our insightful blogs, which make valuable connections between resources, podcasts and courses.Visit our Cue Learning website and sign up for the Teacher's Toolkit Weekly newsletter to stay updated on resources, events and discover how Cue can support you and your school.Explore Teachific, our vast collection of PDF resources, to enhance your teaching toolkit. And get even more support from our growing number of 'anytime' online courses.Connect with the latest news and other educators by joining our Teacher's Toolkit Facebook groupExplore upcoming live or online webinar  events Have questions or feedback? Reach out to us directly at admin@cuelearning.com.au