639.Resource, Gordon, Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun: Mentor Text for Identity and Agency (Grades 3-5)

Identity is our self-concept. Agency refers to our capacity to act. The theme of Identity and Agency begins with the self-awareness of one’s own strengths and weaknesses and expands to our capacity to take action and attain goals. This theme includes self-efficacy (believing in oneself), the self-confidence to try difficult or new tasks, perseverance, and resilience. Identity and Agency are affected by our experiences.

Lucy’s differences (she has wild, curly hair and eats unusual foods for lunch), make her a daily target for the bully, Ralph. These encounters provide the opportunity for self-awareness and developing resilience. Her grandfather, Gino, guides her to practice compassion and the courage to be true to herself.

Heart of Georgia RESA teachers may request a free copy of the book to use with their classes by listening to the short VoiceThread about the book, reading a brief handout that includes the ELA standards and suggested strategies for using the mentor text, and completing a request form.