Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1533049
Got something for this page? Tell us at cta.org with "Lit From Within" in the subject line. Check out past issues at cta.org/lit. Got something for this page? Tell us at cta.org with "Lit From Within" in the subject line. Check out past issues at cta.org/lit. Got something for this page? Tell us at cta.org with "Lit From Within" in the subject line. Check out past issues at cta.org/lit. Often educators' creativity spills over into a book, album, blog or vlog, or other work. We showcase our members' talents: Lit From Within Got something for this page? Tell us at cta.org with "Lit From Within" in the subject line. Check out past issues at cta.org/lit. Compiled by Amy Peruzzaro Echoes of the Chumash Fourth grade teacher and Santa Maria Elementary Education Association member Lynne Latronica has written her first book, Dakota's Mission. Unable to find historical fiction during the era of the California missions told from a Native American perspective, Latronica set out to write a coming-of-age story of a young Chumash girl that she could use in her classroom. This well-re- searched novel is told from the girl's perspective, offering a nuanced look at the devastating impact of Spanish colonization on Califor- nia's indigenous people while remaining age appropriate. Dakota's journey of self-discovery and her people's struggle for survival will resonate with young readers, sparking important conversations about history, culture and resilience. Questioning the Herd Redlands Teachers Association member Susan Cortz has written Alpaca Poe & Cricket, the second book of her Adventures of Alpaca Poe series. When a big dog arrives on the Humming Oaks Farm, chaos ensues among the alpacas. The herd fearfully labels a visiting dog as dangerous based on hearsay, but Poe the alpaca questions their assumptions. Despite the risk, Poe bravely ventures out to meet the dog himself to find out the truth. This heartwarming story encourages young readers to challenge biases, question information sources and promote acceptance, making it a valuable tool for developing crucial SEL skills. Dinosaur Discoveries In The Doomsday Detectives, San Diego Education Association member Cindy Jenson-Elliott narrates the true story of how the Cuban-American father- son team of Luis and Walter Alvarez, a physicist and geologist respectively, uncovered the cause of dinosaurs' extinction. This engaging middle-grade book, illustrated by Theo Nicole Lorenz, blends graphic novel elements with compelling text. It highlights the collaborative nature of scientific discovery, showcasing how the Alvarez duo, along with scientists worldwide, collected and ana- lyzed data to solve this enduring mystery. Jenson-Elliott's expertise in science education and children's literature is apparent; read more about her work at cindyjensonelliott.com. 56 cta.org Our Union