We read Sticks by the incomparable

in class today. I was nervous because ten-year-olds don’t get to read texts geared toward more mature readers.

• How much would they understand?

• Would the story’s themes go over their head?

My students blew me away! With some TQE scaffolding, multiple reads, and a great structured format from

, my students picked up on themes of grief, poverty, authoritarianism, and forgiveness.

Our discussion was richer than any I’ve had using basal readers!

Saunders’ text was rigorous, clearly written, and a beautiful portrayal of the complexities of family life.

I’m never going back to basal readers!