book reviews

Exercise and the brain

Spark Book Review: The Science of Exercise and the Brain

book review, book reviews, Creative Thinking Teaching and Learning, non-fiction, Teaching /

Changing thinking about exercise and the brain Written by bestselling author and psychiatrist John J. Ratey with Eric Hagerman, Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain is a positive book that looks at how exercise can improve neuroplasticity, learning, and executive function. It suggests exercise as a helpful addition to medication, or sometimes even a replacement […]

Spark Book Review: The Science of Exercise and the Brain Read More »

Robert J. Sawyer — Quantum Night

book review, book reviews, Children's literature, novel, Science Fiction, SF /

Book Launch There was such a snowstorm March first for the Toronto launch of Quantum Night, that some feared attendance would be sparse, but Canadians are hardy. Returning home afterward I saw one cyclist on the road, riding through blowing snow.   Despite the blanket of flurries, Lansdowne Brewery was packed, even before the advertised start time.

Robert J. Sawyer — Quantum Night Read More »

Ideamancy – Ideas for Back-To-School Magic

Authors, authorship, book review, book reviews, books, Children's literature, Creative Thinking Teaching and Learning, creative writing, fiction, Fun stuff, Literature, novel, Poetry, publishing, Reading, Teaching, Writing /

The first week of school is over. Routines are starting to gel, kids are on their best behaviour and starting to make friends. Teachers are breathing a sigh of relief. It’s the honeymoon period for elementary teachers. This glistening doorway of opportunity, lit by September magic, will not stay open long. Invite all the kids in,

Ideamancy – Ideas for Back-To-School Magic Read More »

Out of Our Minds by Sir Ken Robinson

Authors, book review, book reviews, books, Creative Thinking Teaching and Learning, drama, Reading, Teaching /

Out of Our Minds: Learning to Be Creative with Sir Ken Robinson When you research creativity in education, it is impossible not to come across Ken Robinson’s provocative work. His book, Out of Our Minds, published in 2001, revised in 2011, is still fresh and powerful. In part a scathing critique of the factory model

Out of Our Minds by Sir Ken Robinson Read More »

Made to Stick

book review, non-fiction /

I enjoyed Made to Stick by Chip Heath and Dan Heath. The subtitle, Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die, explains much of its appeal. If you want to get across a message that people will understand, remember, and act on, this is your book. A lot of the Heath brother’s advice is common sense but

Made to Stick Read More »

Grown Up Digital

book review, non-fiction /

I have to recommend Grown Up Digital: How the Net Generation is Changing Your World by Don Tapscott. I found it excellent preparation for back to school, both for understanding my students and giving extra insight into the group dynamics of my co-workers. It’s also a handy guide for those who wish to market to

Grown Up Digital Read More »