Write On, Irving Berlin!
Author: Leslie Kimmelman
Illustrator: David C. Gardner
Sleeping Bear Press
15 May 2018
32 pages
From the author of Hot Dog! Eleanor Roosevelt Throws a Picnic and the illustrator of The Harvey Milk Story comes this vivid picture-book biography that examines the life of Irving Berlin, the distinguished composer whose songs, including “God Bless America” and “White Christmas,” continue to be popular today.
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Educational Activities inspired by Leslie Kimmelman’s Write On, Irving Berlin!
- Before Reading–Ask students:
- “From looking at the cover, what do you think Berlin is writing about?”
- “What are some of your favorite songs?”
- “What traits make a good student?”
- After Reading–Listen to three of Berlin’s most popular songs: “Alexander’s Ragtime Band,” “White Christmas,” and “God Bless America.” Discuss which you like most.
- After Reading–The Berlin family fled Russia in the 1890s because they were persecuted for being Jewish. Have you ever heard of someone being treated poorly because of their religious beliefs? Or the color of their skin? Or for how they dress or act? How does that make you feel?
- Music–Using a song you know well–perhaps one of Berlin’s or maybe a song like “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” or “Row Row Row Your Boat”–write your own lyrics. Feel free to be serious or silly.
- Crafts–Using crayons (or colored pencils) and paper, draw what you think of when you hear the phrase “God Bless America.” What are you thankful for? Listen to the song for inspiration.
- Writing–Berlin wrote “God Bless America” to honor American soldiers. Write your own letter to American soldiers that thanks them for their service. Consider working with an organization like A Million Thanks to send the letters.