Now that it's Spring, we can expect a few rain showers here and there. It's easy to grumble about those rainy days, but rain is all part of the water cycle that helps grow plants and trees. Rain is one of the sources for freshwater in our homes, and in factories to make paper for library books. Check out a book on rain like, One Big Rain, or Who Likes Rain, and go ahead and jump in a puddle (sshh)! And remember, those May flowers are coming!

What comes in all kinds of colors and is really sweet and chewy? Bubble gum, of course. The 2nd week of March is Bubble Gum Week and it's not just for chewing. There's bubble gum ice cream, bubble gum slushies, bubble gum lip gloss… The possibilities are all over the place, and it's a favorite flavor for many kids. There's also the important job of blowing bubbles and competing with bubbles. There are even World Bubble Records out there. So if you have a lot of hot air, blow it into a bubble today, and watch it grow (or pop!).

Learning to be a writer takes a lot of practice, whether you're a kid or an adult. Learning to be a nonfiction writer takes research and asking lots of questions. If you would like to learn how to write books for kids check out Writing World for tips on good writing. Author Fiona Bayrock's website is another good site to get information on writing nonfiction for children.

Green is definitely not just a color for beans anymore. We all need to be "green" and take responsibility to care for our wonderful planet. Kids can be just as responsible as parents in this area by doing simple things like turning off the lights when they leave a room, or using both sides of a sheet of paper. Of course using the library is a fantastic way to be green, by using the books and sources we have, instead of buying new ones. There are also some great books at the library to help remind kids of the important part they can play in being green. Check out Sandy's Incredible Shrinking Footprint, Uno's Garden, or The Lorax, which all are fun stories to read and help remind us to take care of our Earth.

Hey kids,
Did you know there are other students out there who have something to tell you about Altoona Baboona, or Aliens for Lunch? It may be that the best way for you to find out if you really want to read a book is to learn about it from another kid. The Spaghetti Book Club is a great site for you. It is the largest site of book reviews written and illustrated by kids, for kids. You can look up book reviews by title, author, or kid reviewers in their state/school. Teachers will be interested in checking out the site too, which explains this literacy program that can help develop students reading and writing skills.

Did you know that ginger is not only fun to bake with, but a healthy spice as well? Ginger is good for digestion, used to treat nausea and motion sickness, and has anti-inflammatory properties. And of course, it's a great time of year to make some creative gingerbread houses, and yummy cookies. There's also ginger tea, ginger ale and lots of recipes you can use ginger in. Some may even remember this name on Gilligan's Island.