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Numbers I Can't Count...because they're really words.

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My Book Cover

"Numbers I Can't Count" is not a math book. Khari is a child almost 10 years old, who is puzzled by the use of indefinite pronouns such as "some", "several", "few", etc. Through conversations with family, friends, and others, he raises questions that introduce a young reader/writer/speaker to subjective language usage, and how the nature of these inexact words often serves the speaker's purposes by their lack of clarity. He discovers that choosing these words often reveals the speaker's attitude toward what is being described. In that way, indefinite pronouns provide an early introductioin to tone and intention in language arts instruction. Translating these "mystery words" whenever possible helps build good communication skills applicable to school and work. The book can provide an introduction to expository writing that asks students to write about things that puzzle, confuse, or confound them personally. The responses may be stunning!

Back Cover

I just couldn't decide which cover I liked best so I chose to use my two favorites front and back. Bill Jackson was my illustrator, and you may see some of the art work from "Numbers I Can't Count" on his Lens. Big shout out to Bill Jackson!
The book's narrator is a boy soon to be 10 years old. It is an early age of both assertion and adaptation on the path to adolescence. It is an age at which language development begins more and more to allow children to recognize and express opinions, draw conclusions, and interpret meaning

The Field Trip Report

Khari overhears Ms. Parson's report on the field trip to Roller Coaster World to Mr. Hall, and takes note of her use of the words, "few" and "several". Indefinite words can neutralize, minimize, or add emphasis.

Say It Now; In Time They'll Understand

Nothing is greater than the wisdom caring parents impart to children, especially when they live the life they talk about. The message is that children are always listening: to words, to tone and intention. I believe they are capable of grasping these subtleties sooner and more capably than we think.

Confucius said: "The most beautiful sight in the world is a little child going confidently down the road after you have shown him the way."

Career Focus: Never Too Early

Many schools have eliminated "reading" as a course and instead introduced "literacy" as a higher level of comprehension. Khari narrates three examples the literacy teacher gives to illustrate how communication skills are important in the world of work. Khari learns that the use of clear, concise directions and instructions, instead of indefinite words used subjectively, can make for a successful work experience. He also concludes that the same ideas applied to communicating with his parents can keep him out of trouble!

"I'm Going to be a Writer."

I chose to make the main character a boy because I wanted to go counter to the usual gender assignments of girls excelling linguistically and boys being scientific and mechanically inclined. I suppose my next book may be concerned with girls exploring quantum physics and higher math.

(I will need a really good editor.)

Book Order Form

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Copies are $10; each includes a free book mark and learning
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Please Send Check or Money order to:
Vacera Morgan
7826 S. Luella Ave.
Chicago, IL 60649

vaceramorgan@sbcglobal.net
www.squidoo.com/numbers-i-can-t-count

I appreciate your visit!

Leave me a comment!

  • Valerie Hoffman Apr 24, 2012 @ 11:32 pm | delete
    Looking forward to Your method of teaching.
  • gina k. Nov 27, 2011 @ 2:17 am | delete
    will see you at the book signing - great sucess in all you do
  • Patricia A. Stewart Nov 11, 2011 @ 7:25 pm | delete
    Many adults have trouble distinguishing indefinite pronouns. I think this is a good topic for students to explore.
  • KarenTBTEN Nov 9, 2011 @ 9:59 pm | delete
    Sounds like a charming book. Good luck with the endeavor -- and "SquidAngel" blessings.
  • Tiger Lil Nov 1, 2011 @ 7:08 am | delete
    You go girl, I'm really seeing a great Edutainment opportunity to teach our children a skill they will need through out their lives, I'm proud of you keep up the great work!!!
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VaceraMorgan45

Having grown up on New York City's Lower East Side primarily, diversity of language, culture, and traditions was commonplace. After six years at the "... more »

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