Each month, we share five things we love as part of our Footnotes Newsletter. Take a look at some of our favorite English language arts resources, articles, and more we found in February!

1. School Districts Are Trying to Ban More Books. People Are Fighting Back One Judy Blume Tweet at a Time.

As the controversy surrounding book censorship in schools continues, more people are speaking up about their experiences with book banning—and how bans have spectacularly backfired. Judy Blume’s novels in particular were the catalyst for many people’s reading rebellions. See what people had to say about Blume’s positive impact in their formative years in this article for We Are Teachers.

2. Teaching Color Psychology with Literature

Literature is abound with symbolism, with color usage being a prime example. Diving into color psychology when analyzing a story can help students extract even more meaning from the text. Plus, color psychology is fun to learn! Visit Language Arts Classroom to find creative ways to incorporate color psychology into your next literature unit.

3. Short Books for Younger Teens Who Want a Great Read

Short books are small but mighty! For students who may feel intimidated by longer novels, short books are the perfect way to explore literature and develop a love for reading. Visit Pernille Ripp’s blog to find over 30 short but engaging novels for teen readers, all of which have her students’ seal of approval.

4. Teaching Bronx Masquerade by Nikki Grimes

A blend of poetry and prose, Bronx Masquerade is a moving YA story that examines the importance of identity, dreams, and personal expression. At her blog, teacher Danielle Hall shares four fun lessons she created to help students get the most out of the book while meeting academic goals. (P.S. If you haven’t read Bronx Masquerade, you should give it a try—we sell it right here at Prestwick House!)

5. The Psychology of Fiction: Why Reading Transforms Us

To say reading is important is the understatement of the century, but it’s true, and psychology can prove it. In this article for Psychology Today, Dr. Marianna Pogosyan discusses how the act of reading fiction can lead to dramatic strides in self-development and cognitive abilities.