On Monday, March 25, 2019, I spent the day reading Playground Heroes to students at Sudlersville Elementary School in grades 1-4. Many of the students remembered me from my visit last year when I read Jamal and Me. They were an enthusiastic and engaged audience and asked a lot of insightful questions once the read aloud concluded. They then completed grade appropriate follow up activities.
Reactions to Playground Heroes from students:
“Once again, Carol Franks-Randall enthralled students at Sudlersville Elementary School with her most recent book, Playground Heroes. Students were able to empathize with the character, Charlie, who was bullied on the playground. After reading aloud her book Playground Heroes, Dr. Franks-Randall challenged students to consider ways they could be a “playground” hero. Children relate easily with the characters in her books; we can’t wait to see what’s coming next from Dr. Franks-Randall!” Pamela Renfrow/Media Specialist, Sudlersville Elementary School
“Well the main reason I liked the story was because the heroes were female kids, so I feel like that can inspire other young women to stop more than just bullying. Another reason I liked Playground Heroes was the illustrations. I think they really help explain what’s going on in the story.” Female student, aged 10
“I like how the author puts her grandchildren in the story. I also like how it inspires many many people to be a buddy not a bully and more. I also like how Zoe and Elle stood up for Charlie, their friend! Another reason is that there’s a moral to the story on how to stand up to bullies and to treat people how you want to be treated. That’s my quote on Playground Heroes.” Male student, aged 10
A big thank you to Pamela Renfrow, Library-Media Specialist and Rebecca Van Aken, Reading Specialist for working with me to make this happen!
My visit was featured in the Record Observer on April 5, 2019.