A Corner of the Universe

The following materials bring books to life and support both individual and group literature study. Use these resources to draw real-world connections, plan interdisciplinary lessons, inspire unique research projects, create enrichment activities, and support differentiated instruction.

• The Betsy-Tacy Treasury

Hattie loves the Betsy-Tacy books by Maud Hart Lovelace. The first in the series was originally published in 1940! The first four titles are combined in this treasury.

• My Life in the Fish Tank

When Zinnia’s older brother is diagnosed with a mental illness, her family wants Zinnia to keep it secret in Barbara Dee’s 2020 middle grade novel. This related read explores similar issues to those in A Corner of the Universe.

• Shirley Temple

Adam and Hattie drink Shirley Temples—traditionally “kid” cocktails—at Nana’s introductory dinner. Here is the recipe for that classic nonalcoholic drink.

• Dobie Gillis - “Caper at the Bijou”

Hattie imagines what a date with teen heartthrob, Dobie Gillis, would be like. She also thinks that Angel looks like “one of those Dobie Gillis girls” (7). In this first episode of the famous ‘50s tv show, Dobie Gillis explains his driving motivations: money and girls.