Check out our new children’s book!
Lie Cheat Steal, by former Lincoln (NE) Public Schools teacher Jeff Chartier, relates classroom stories in verse for young readers primarily in fifth and sixth grade. Illustrated by Lincoln artist Patrick Bradley, the book follows in the footsteps of Shel Silverstein with its slightly edgy black-and-white drawings, unusual typographic design, and the use of the illustrations to break out of the margins of the text. The 12 stories in the book relate classroom life from the students’ perspective and discuss real-life situations, from attention-seeking classmates to helicopter moms, with humor and authenticity. Young readers who normally don’t like to read may find themselves enjoying this book because of its relatability and use of verse with patterns and rhyming elements.
Teachers and educators will appreciate the lengthy glossary in the appendix with vocabulary and literacy terms beneficial to students (titled “What You Talkin’ ’Bout, Willis?”—those of a certain age will know the reference). Jeff was also intentional about including language, vocabulary, higher-level thinking, and literacy skills within the text that he felt would be helpful to students that read the book, regardless of the educational standards their state follows, such as Common Core.
C.S. Lewis is quoted as saying that “a children’s story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children’s story in the slightest.” Adults may find themselves intrigued by Lie Cheat Steal as well.
The 240-page 5.5 × 8.5 book is available in hardcover and paperback editions online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other retailers, as well as the author’s website at jeffchartierauthor.com.
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