Little Sister Is Not My Name! by Sharon M. Draper

Toward the end of the story there is a power outage. Who chose their name and why? Do they like it? Do they prefer a nickname? Not only could this begin as an introductory story exercise, but students could also write poems about their names. Since Sassy focuses on her name and how it is used, it could promote children to narrate about their own names. What would be taught? How would the day be scheduled? Would the students have uniforms? How would the students interact? The teachers? What would the building or space look like? etc. As an assignment, a teacher could have students create illustrations, prepare an argument, or give a performance of what their perfect school would be like. Sassy spends a chapter giving a speech to her fellow fourth graders describing her ideal school. The book emphasizes and prizes literacy and storytelling. Although race issues are not at the center of this book as with many of Draper's other novels, it is still present in the backdrop, allowing readers historically ignored by these types of series to feel represented. This is the first book in a new series by Draper, who has begun extending beyond her usual young adult books. (Alas, removing the paper cover will not be enough, the outside of the book also is colored in light hughes and sparkles) A teacher could have more masculinely-inclined students focus on Sassy's brother, Sabin or on the tension-filled last few chapters.

Of course, a teacher could still try to get boys to engage with the text.

A teacher or parent may want to make sure to reinforce that point though. While fashion and appearance are emphasized, Sassy's Grammy still makes sure to reinforce the idea of inner beauty and strength. Rather it could be used as a literature circle read or individual recommendation. Since this is decidedly a 'girl' book, what with the sparkles on the cover and with a protagonist that is very concerned with fashion and her appearance, a teacher may not want to assign this book to an entire class. It turns out, a visit from Grammy is just the first of several surprises.

At the very least, so I can find out exactly how much such a sack would weigh.Īfter going through an eventful school day and dreaming of having more color in her school, Sassy is surprised by a visit from her grandmother. While I tend more toward a backpack myself, after reading how much stuff (although mainly small items) it holds, I can't help but want my own Sassy Sack. Sassy's sack is a super-purse, filled with everything she needs.

With her colorful Sassy Sack over her shoulder everyday, she takes on wearing her drab blue and white school uniform, being the youngest child in a family of five that are always calling her 'Little Sister' instead of her name. Nine-year-old Sassy loves to express herself. Sassy: Little Sister is NOT My Name! New York: Scholastic Press.

Little Sister Is Not My Name! by Sharon M. Draper