Our Projects

Welcome! The grade levels and ages listed here are estimates, simply meant to guide you. You know your kids and students best—every reader grows at their own pace. Many books are wonderfully universal and work well across multiple age groups, and some titles remain a perfect fit for readers who may still be developing their skills, especially with a bit of guidance or support. And remember: nonfiction picture books can be powerful tools at any age—even in high school—as supplements, mentor texts, or just great stories worth encountering. Thank you for sharing books with young people, embracing beautifully diverse stories, and keeping the magic of reading alive.

Feel free to use and share any of the educator materials provided here—just kindly credit Room 228, and please note that none of our resources are permitted for resale. Read away!

Educator’s Guide: Fairy Tale Retellings

Full of magic, greed, power struggles and mystery. By burrowing into these books and activities your students will examine relatable topics – whom to trust, what path to follow, why do certain groups hold the power in their worlds? These stories lend themselves to natural comparisons to traditional fairytales and a myriad of cultures. Step into the woods…if you dare.

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Reading Group Guide: Far Far Away By Tom McNeal

A page turner to use in the classroom that is full of fairytale allusions, suspense, and hope. A wonderful springboard resource to teach the craft of writing. McNeal’s technique is definitely worthy of study and critical exploration. We simply love this novel and know that young people will too.

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Teacher’s Guide: The Port Chicago 50 – Disaster, Mutiny, And The Fight For Civil Rights by Steve Sheinkin

Steve Sheinkin’s award winning books explore fascinating topics – and Port Chicago 50 is no exception. Help students examine the prejudice and lack of human rights that black men and women experienced in America during World War II – even as they fought to defend that same country. This guide offers content specific vocabulary, multimedia and supplemental materials, and thoughtful activities to analyze the hows and whys of the Port Chicago 50 tragedy.

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Teacher’s Guide: Most Dangerous – Daniel Ellsberg and the Secret History of the Vietnam War by Steve Sheinkin

Who is Daniel Ellsberg? Take your students on a gripping ride as they discover the actions of a man labeled by some as one of the “most dangerous” men in America. Explore different points of view, primary sources from the Vietnam War era, and behind the scenes of government decision-making. A patriot or a traitor? Ask your students!

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Teacher’s Guide: The Boys Who Challenged Hitler by Knud Pedersen and the Churchill Club

Another inspiring book by Phillip Hoose shows how young people can absolutely make a difference in the world, even in war. Through this true story of heroism and through activities in this guide, students can explore how words hold power and how actions can be courageous – at any age.

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