#27

#27 is a Read 180 book that I read because one of my students couldn't understand one of the questions being asked of her, and I didn't know the story enough to help.  Turns out the question was messed up and asked about Uncle Wong ~ the Uncle's name is Uncle Fong...way to go Scholastic.  Anyway, The Magic Paintbrush by Laurence Yep is a cute little tale about a poor Chinese family ~ Grandfather, Grandson, and Uncle (who's just a friend of Grandfather's).  They discover a magic paintbrush (hence the name) that brings to life whatever it paints.  Of course the mean, greedy landlord discovered the paintbrush and wishes for riches that end of being the path to unhappiness.  A great tale of what is really important in life.  Every student I've had read it loves it.

Great Quote:  page 63, "Mr. Blue smiled politely.  "Little sir, magic cannot be tamed.  Magic is like Nature.  Can you control the rain?  And do you blame it when it gets you wet and you catch cold?  And yet does that same rain help your crops to grow and feed you?

fl: Steve sat in the school yard long after school was over.  ll: He couldn't wait either.