Storybook Sunday: When I Was Young in the Mountains

Cynthia Rylant's sweet story When I Was Young in the Mountains was originally published in 1982, but I just discovered it a few weeks ago while browsing for great children's literature at a local bookstore. As soon as I opened the book, read a few lines, and caught a glimpse of the beautiful illustrations, I knew that I needed to add it to my collection!

This partially autobiographical story details life in a small coal-mining town in West Virginia. Rylant, who grew up in a tiny cabin with six relatives, paints a vivid picture of family life. Meanwhile, themes of nurturing and contentment throughout the story teach valuable life lessons and give readers a sense of peace.
I am looking forward to reading this book with my tutoring students over the coming weeks, and even designed a literature guide to go along with the book! My literature guide, which contains a set of journaling pages designed to help students write their own memoirs as well as several graphic organizers and vocabulary activities can be found on Teachers Pay Teachers. Just click the cover below to view it!

Please feel free to share your favorite children's book in the comments, and then hop on over to Paula's Place to see some other great recommendations!