646.Resource, Gordon, Crenshaw: Mentor Text for Emotional Regulation (Grades 3-5)

The theme of Emotional Regulation includes a teachable, complex set of skills for managing emotional states. The skills include identifying emotions, self-control (managing impulses, delaying gratification), managing stress, using coping skills, and reflection.

Crenshaw is one of the rare children’s books that deals with the everyday struggles of the working poor and food insecure. When Jackson’s parents have jobs, the family is able to live in an apartment. When they don’t, Jackson, his parents, his sister, and the family dog live in their minivan. Jackson doesn’t want to worry his parents, so he has no one to talk to, to turn to—until a huge, imaginary cat named Crenshaw appears just when Jackson needs him most. While there are many lessons, one is that friends matter, even if they are imaginary. Another is that it’s okay for a fifth grade boy to have an imaginary friend.

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.