Courage+(April)

The theme for April is Courage.

**The Lion & the Mouse** by Jerry Pinkney

In this exquisite winner of the Caldecott Medal for best illustrations, the mouse shows exceptional courage as he stands up to the mighty lion and later returns the favor. The only words provided as text are a few animal sounds.

**Courage** by Bernard Waber

This book shows many scenes of courage, both awesome and everyday examples. There is no plot, but many of the scenes may lead to discussion and may inspire students to come up with their own examples of courage. Perhaps scenes of courage could lead to students doing some reflective writing, such as describing awesome and everyday experiences of courage from their own lives.

**Bravery Soup** by Maryann Cocca-Leffler

Carlin the raccoon is afraid of everything. When the bear sends him on a quest for the missing ingredient for bravery soup, Carlin realizes that he actually has a lot of courage and strength inside. Best for younger grades.

**Brothers in Hope: The Story of the Lost Boys of Sudan**

Appropriate for older elementary.

**The Bravest Woman in America** by Marissa Moss

This new book from 2011 was donated to the Trotter School library. It brings to life the true story of Ida Lewis, who spent most of her life as the lighthouse keeper in Newport, Rhode Island. Over her lifetime, Ida bravely rescued many people from close calls in the waters near her lighthouse. She received several awards for her bravery and successful efforts to save lives.

**Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon** by Patty Lovell

See also: **Bonyo Bonyo** under Diligence.