Gives humorous advice for parents interested in helping their children write term papers, such as making sure to understand the footnote and bibliography forms because kids can get pretty annoyed at being marked down on parents' typing. (EL)

Examines creative humor and appreciative humor. Suggests ways elementary school counselors can nurture humor, both creatively and appreciatively, as a necessary characteristic of the complete child. (ABB)

Examines a group of young adult novels written by American Jewish authors to support claim that they have helped establish the irreverent, lively tone characteristic of contemporary literature for young adults. Also discusses definitions of Jewish humor; the use of Jewish places, names, and words; discussion and wordplay; and stereotypes. (EM)

Crosby Bonsall, a prolific author-illustrator for young readers, comments on many topics related to writing, illustrating, and young children's initial independent encounters with print in books. (HOD)

Presents a selection of quotations from would-be censors. Argues humorously that the quotations were intended to be funny. (FL)

Discusses perceptual processing associated with understanding cartoons; reviews literature focusing on cartoon creation, criticism, and communication; defines iconic imaging; and reviews crucial factors in understanding and creating cartoons, including leveling, sharpening, and assimilation, right and left brain imagery modes, developmental stages…

This essay addresses concerns surrounding the censorship of library materials and responds to comments received on a previous article by the same author ("Top of the News," Winter 1984). Discussion covers the American Civil Liberties Union, vulgar language and inadequate vocabulary, library collections, library material selection, and…

Observed the ways in which norm formation and social conformity are engaged in the joke setting. Despite the "cautious" operational definition of the convergence concept, the basic finding of convergence nevertheless seems fairly absolute and pertinent to the individual's day-to-day social relations. (Author/BL)

Argues humorously for "constructive ambiguity." Includes amusing rules for vocabulary, punctuation, style, clarity, and bibliographies. Ends with the rule, "When one says nothing of consequence, it is difficult to contradict one's self." (EL)

Discusses how metaphors are most effective at generating readers'"epiphany" or insight. (HTH)

A whimsical personal narrative that explores the image educators have of prime time television and its effect on the author. (CRH)

Updates the list of classic excuses students make to teachers when their paper is late--this time in reference to the mishaps that may occur with a computer. (CRH)

Suggests that childrens' responses to traditional methods of teaching literature are a function of their developmental status, which parallels their preference for particular types of jokes. (KS)

As educators, we often take ourselves a bit too seriously, so veteran educator and illustrator Aaron Bacall offers a little perspective with these lighthearted cartoons. Whether used as overheads for meetings or as an individual break in a busy day, this collection of whimsical glimpses at staff development will provide a moment to laugh and add a…

This book presents classroom-tested ideas to help teachers make teaching and learning more enjoyable, noting that humor can be a positive force in teaching, learning, and health. The book is designed to: help teachers see the importance of a pleasant, good-humored environment; convince teachers that laughter can be an essential element in…