One of the best things about homeschooling is we get to read constantly! If we are immersed in a book and want to read for an hour to finish it, we CAN. Both of my children love to read. I am so blessed to be able to say this.

My children participated in a Homeschool Literature Fair last week. Miss B did this last year and it was a wonderful experience, so we decided to do it again this year, and this time GMan got to participate, too. Each child chose a book to read, completed a book report, a tri-fold display, and also a hands on project. The children are separated into age categories and then judged based on a rubric, which includes a personal interview. The event is open to the public (I LOVE this part) and the morning is spent looking at all of the wonderful book projects these children have completed. To say I was impressed was an understatement. I wish I could post pictures of each project to show you!

First, second and third prizes were awarded in age categories for children in grades 2-9 - the little ones received participation ribbons.

GMan chose The Grouchy Ladybug, by Eric Carle. He did several lapbook elements for his display board. He also made a ladybug sweep net and raised ladybugs. He kept a journal of what his larvae were up to each day for two weeks. I thought he might be a little shy when the judge came to talk with him, but he talked her ear off! I was so proud of my little guy.

I think his favorite part of the display was his ladybug clock and mini book of the story.... spending so much time on this book cemented his understanding of time.

Our pastor and his wife came to the literature fair. Grant was so proud to have visitors there.

Miss B chose the book Calico Bush, by Rachel Field. This is a lovely story that was a part of our Sonlight Core 3 curriculum. She chose to research the state of Maine and also learn to knit and quilt as her hands on project -- quite an undertaking, but she DID IT, and I'm so proud of her!

Here's a close up of her knit fingerless gloves and her doll quilt. The baby represents a baby in the story who was burned in a fire and later died. My daughter was so moved by this story not only because of it's heartbreaking events, but also because of the heroine (Marguerite's) triumph despite the circumstances.

Here is her full display: