Educator’s Guide Debut + 2nd Anniversary of Border Crossings
Today, 10/21/14,* I hail the second anniversary of the launch of BORDER CROSSINGS: Coming of Age in the Czech Resistance. Thank you one and all for your encouragement and support of Charles Novacek’s award-winning memoir and me through this remarkable journey! Many borders have indeed been crossed.
Charles’ timeless firsthand account of his life spent in the Czech Resistance from age 11 to 20 during World War II and the Cold War continues to inspire readers, young and old alike.
However, this year there will be no champagne toast or cake to honor this. Instead, I will celebrate with the debut of an Educator’s Guide for BORDER CROSSINGS created by author, educator, and consultant, Debbie Gonzales. Its official introduction will be at the Michigan Association for Media in Education (MAME) Annual Conference, “Cavalcade of Authors” on October 23, 2014 in Ann Arbor, MI.
The guide “has been crafted with the overall intent to connect readers with Charles’ emotional journey as a young man growing up in a time of historical turmoil. The lessons and activities presented in the guide are creative, intuitive, and informative, thus allowing students to consider Charles’ plight as if it were their own. All aspects of the guide have been aligned with the Common Core Anchor Standards of Reading Informational Texts, Writing, Speaking & Listening, and History/Social Studies for grades 6 to 12.”
Ms. Gonzales states “This unforgettable book distills history down to a person level, one that young people can connect with emotionally. Students will identify with Charles and his initial desires to be a regular kid, engaging in activities and interests much like their own. As the incredible story progresses, students will be shocked by the unbelievable trials Charles was forced to endure – trials that are documented through letters, documents, and pictures. In short, BORDER CROSSINGS: Coming of Age in the Czech Resistance transcends a factual study of war and geography into an experience and appreciation of a man’s soulful journey of heartfelt love for his country and her people.”
The guide is available online through www.charlesnovacekbooks.com and www.debbiegonzales.com. What a thrill to be able to introduce and share Charles’ message and story with young people!
*It’s also the date Charles and I were married in 1996 and the name of my publishing company – 1021 Press.
