I Remember Miss Perry

Title: I Remember Miss Perry
Author: Pat Brisson
Illustrator: Stephane Jorisch
Publisher: Dial Books for Young Readers
http://us.penguingroup.com/static/pages/publishers/yr/dial.html
Publication Date: September 2006
Genre: Picture Book
Audience: 1st - 5th grade
Overview: Stevie, who has recently moved, is ready to experience his first day of school. He is very nervous considering he does not know anyone and does not have any friends. His teacher, Miss Perry, makes Stevie feel more comfortable by sharing her own personal feelings of being a new teacher at the school and even invites him to eat lunch with her. Stevie eventually makes new friends and has amazing class experiences with Miss Perry as his teacher. One day in class, the principal informs Stevie and his classmates that their teacher Miss Perry tragically died in a car accident. Stevie and the rest of the class has to cope with the recent death of their teacher. In the end, they all remember how great of a teacher Miss Perry was, and how many happy memories they had as a class.
Activity: This is a very unique book that discusses sad circumstances. I think this would be a great book to share if a class has lost a classmate or teacher. This book can help the class cope with a loss and even encourage students to discuss the situation and express their feelings. Loss is something everyone has to experience, even children. This book can be a great coping tool for children who do not understand loss and are having a hard time coming to terms with it.
Reviewer's Name: Rachel Bartee