Isabel of the Whales by Hester Velmans

This book is a breath taking novel that leaves readers in a magical world of wonder. I absolutely loved this mystical telling of a young lady “the chosen one” who turns into a whale for a year. She gets to learn secrets about whales that no other human being gets to know or see. She also gets to discover the wonders of the deep.

This is a story that will keep students on the edge of their seats. Velmans does a great job with suspense and for shadowing. Her work is high quality. She does a great job of using sensory details and descriptive verbs. She also shows her readers thing instead of telling them, always a sign of a good writer. She does an excellent job making her work of fiction logical and organized. It not only brings up life questions about what it means to take care of the world around us but gives detailed information about whales. Her story telling manner of delivery information will help make the facts more memorable and meaningful. She does not use statistics to discuss the decline in whales over the recent years but has students experience it through her words. She also shows students the beauty of being a whale and what might a whale’s life be like.

I would use this book in my classroom as a read aloud or free read. Either way it would be a great book. I recommend it for the upper grades because of the discussion possibilities but no doubt most of the younger grades would enjoy the mystical tale as well. I recommend this book to teachers.

Publishing: 2005

Hello Ocean written by Pam Munzo Ryan and Illustrated by Mark Astrella

I loved this book. It was well written and its illustrations were breathtaking. The picture continues on the front to the back of the cover as well as the story began before the publishing.

Munzo does  a brilliant job with her descriptions in a poetic and informative way. She also uses great descriptions. It also uses words that mean the same as the meaning. She does a great job using detailed verbs.

The illustrations however make the story. They are so life like. I would love to read more books illustrated by Astrella. He does an amazing job. He uses shadows and sunlight to bring his illustrations to life. Each one is rich with details and illusionistic texture. The pictures are so real one might actually think they’re there.

This would be a great book for a read aloud as well as a free read. This book would be a good choice to read if they ever went on a beach trip or had a class discussion about the sea shore. I recommended this book to teachers.

Publishing: 2001

Migration of a Whale written by Tanya Kant and Illustrated by Mark Bergin

I found this book very informative. I think I might have enjoyed it more if it was not the tenth book on the same subject for my text set. That in mind it was a well written book.

The text was more informational than focus minded. It also broke up the text into little paragraphs and had individual words for diagrams to help with the descriptions. Breaking up the text makes the book easier to read and more engaging. Every two pages or so is a new topic so it doesn’t matter if you read the book in order.

The illustrations are very basic and hardly change from page to page. There is no background illustrated but only cookie cutter-appearing whales. There were no little details or exciting coloring to cause the reader to want to read more. I found the illustrations very boring for that reason. In the end I did not care for the pictures.

I feel like the text is good but the illustrations bring it down. For that reason I feel that I could find a better illustration informational picture book for my classroom. I would not recommend this book.

Publishing:2008

Dolphins written by Sharon Bokoske and Margret Davidson and Illustrated by Courtney

 I found this book very informative and its pictures engaging. I felt that it made learning fun with its little anecdotal stories and interesting facts.This is definitely an informational book. There is not one consistent story throughout the entire book. It does give short stories about dolphins. It tells some fascinating tales of how they heroically save and work beside people. The illustrations are also very detailed and realistic. They add to the story as well as give specific details about the text.

I would use this book for a text set or a paired book. I would not use it as a read aloud. It would be a great book to have as a free read in a library.

Published: 1993

Special note Courtney’s last name is not mentioned.

A Listair and Kips Great Adventure! Written and illustrated by John Segal

I found this book entertained and enjoyable. I felt that this book might be one in a serious of picture books. It used a common theme of cats and dogs. The illustrations were simplistic and yet formatted in a fun way. The illustrations are formatted at times like a graphic novel and most definitely paint the story. The illustrations tell the story almost more than the words.

The text is simplistic and yet informative and is written as a graphic novel might with a sentence or two per illustration. It also at times uses words that sound like what they might mean like “boom” and “crack.” The story definitely has moments of suspense and action and will draw readers in.

I would use this book as a free read in my library. I would not use it as a read aloud as it does not have very many moments for dramatic action. This book could be for younger ages as well as old. However the illustrations may be due to style aimed for younger ages.

Publishing: 2008

Story of Dolphin by Katherine Orr

All though this book is not my favorite I did enjoy it. I found the story interesting and very descriptive. It definitely had a message but the message did not get in the way of the story.

            The illustrations were much more simplistic than some of the illustrations that I have seen before. It had a very distinct style of print that some people may not prefer but I found enjoyable. Orr definitely utilized a variety of colors that goes perfectly with the mood.

            The text has many details that help paint a picture. This book does have a lot of word competed to other picture books. There might be several paragraphs on page. That is why I recommend it for older students.

I would use this as a free read. I would not use it as a read aloud because of the amount of words. I might however use it with a text set.

Published: 1993

Dolphins on the Sand written and illustrated by Jim Arnosky

This book was adorable. I found the story to be informative as well as heart wrenching. Arnosky really makes the reader care about the dolphins and their treacherous journey. He also uses suspense when the dolphins get stranded on sand.

The illustrations add to the story. They help explain some of the more challenging vocabulary as well as add to the story line. The illustrations are also just beautiful using warm and cool colors at times. The beautiful illustrations add to the imaginations and the tranquility of nature.

Arnosky also utilized suspense and adventure. The story did a great a job of showing readers not telling them. It also brings up several discussions of how whales and dolphins get beached and what people do to help. One of the best aspects of this story is that it is true for the most part. Although at times written from the dolphins perspective it is an account of a real event that the author witnessed.

I would have this book as a free read. I might also use this book as a read aloud.

This book can also be used as a text. I recommend this book to teachers.

Published: 2008

Big Blue Whale written by Nicola Davies and illustrated by Nick Maland

Another fabulous children’s picture book! It definitely falls into the category as informational. I absolutely loved this book. I learned so much and in such a fun way.

            It is important to note that once again the illustration continues from the front cover to the back of the cover. The story also begins before the publishing information. The illustrations did not only have their own unique pencil sketch styles with color but also were very scientific looking at times. It used several closes ups so one might better understand what the text discusses. It also adds to the text creating at moments its own side story.

The text is very informative and not belittling. It helps make the reader the expert assuming they understand and that they can understand the vocabulary for themselves. Therefore its  not condescending what so ever. However, one of the most unique things about the text is its formatting. The text appears in paragraph form at times as well as wrapping itself around the illustrations and the characters. This makes reading the facts fun and interesting. I definitely learned a lot from this book. One cool fact is that even though it is a picture book it has an index at the end.

I would use this book in my classroom. I could use the activity we used in class with the three different responses. I could also use it in a text set…which I plan on doing. I could use this book for science projects and research. I recommend this book to teacher.

Published: 1997

Billy Twitters and his Blue Whale Problem written by Mac Barnett and Illustrated by Adam Rex

I absolutely love this book. I knew I was in a treat when the picture on the cover continued on to the back. I also got excited with all of the cool black and white images. The story began before the publishing information and then had black and white images at the end. I absolutely loved the story line and found the book very engaging.

The illustrations were exquisite. Each character was unique and the backgrounds were filled with details. They most definitely added to the story. Every once and awhile there would be a page or two where there would only be illustrations before the text began again. You could read the book without the text and it would still be a story. The illustrations were also educational. When the text discussed the sixe of the whale then the whale was drawn with a car and a man beside it so that it could be compared in size. Later on in the book the illustration also compares the whale to a pool, these images will help students really grasp how big a blue whale actually is. This is especially helpful for visual learners although everyone will gain something.

Barette kept the story the focus however he riddles the text with interesting facts and details. Text is displayed as in most picture books paragraph form. It is also displayed in thought bubbles. This adds to the story making it more enjoyable for the reader and allows the student to really get into the character. The text and illustrations work so well together you might thing that the author and illustrator were the same person.

I would use this book as a free read or to be read aloud. It lends itself to some drama and as an information book. It also is very student friendly. I think students who may not enjoy reading will enjoy this book. I will use it in a text set about whales and could be used as a comparison book. I recommend this book to teachers.

Published: 2009

Walter and the Tugboat written by Eugene Bradley Coco and Illustrated by Edward Heck

            I found the book incredibly simplistic and basic. The book was designed for preschoolers as it says on its cover but I found the sentence structure almost too simplistic. I did not find the illustrations very detailed or informative.

            The illustrations did not add to the text nor did they distract. They did show the emotions of the characters through eyes and used different color themes. I felt that the simplicity of the illustrations however distracted from the actual text. Sense the preschoolers cannot even read the illustrations should be able to tell the story without the words. The illustrations do that to an extent but some of the text is needed for meaning.

The text can be condescending. A very, very little child may not think so but according to chapter 3 from our reading in class if I feel that the tone is condescending so might they. This does not make reading enjoyable but a chore that must be done.

I might use this book if a child really struggled with reading, but I do not recommend it. I don’t think I would have it in my classroom.

Published:1988

Hattie and the Wild Waves author and illustrator Barbara Cooney

I found this book refreshing and sophisticated. I think most children will be able to gain something out of the sweet little story. I enjoyed its classical word choice and world view.

The text was incredibly well written, using expansive vocabulary and vivid details. Not only did Cooney use well chosen details to paint pictures with her words but also descriptive verbs, the key to writing with success like “murmur” and “transfixed.” Her choice of words challenges the reader, giving them confidence as they go along. She also does a very nice job of showing her readers not telling them what she means.

I found the elaborate and colorful illustrations insightful. Although they utilized later artistic techniques with shapes and colors the picture displayed a century now left in history. The architecture and clothing was exactly what one might expect in the late 1800s or early 1900s. They also are very detailed allowing the reader to look at them multiple times and still catch something new.

I think this book would be great for students doing a text set on the late 1800s or early 1900s. It would give students an inside look at the culture of that time period. Also the story is what I expect from that culture and what little Hatttie goes through. It is a great discussion book. Why were there so many rules of what she could and couldn’t do? Why did they think she meant painting houses not art work? There are many issues that a teacher could choose for a class discussion. I would want to read this book as a class or in a small group. I recommend this book.

Published: 1990

Nathaniel Fludd Beastologist: Flight of the Phoenix by R. L. Lafevers and Illustrated by Kelly Murphy

This series novel was enjoyable. The story was fast pace and simple. The adventure the protagonist goes on will only make children want to read the next book. The book is definitely intended to go on as it doesn’t quite end.

Although the fast paced adventure will be loved by students I found the book’s quality somewhat lacking. Lafevers does not use much descriptive language or many sensory details. As with other novel writers she does not paint pictures with her words. Lafevers does a good job of drawing readers into her story she does not do a good job of using descriptive language to totally make her world of beastologist believable. Although Lowery does a great job of making her world logical and thinking through all the details to make it realistic where Lafevers’s story is too rushed to create a complete world.

I would allow this book on my shelf as a free read but only for third and forth graders. The language and literary skills are too simplistic for upper grades. I would not read this book aloud as I do not find this novel as well written as others.

Published: 2009

Dory Sory by Jerry Pallotta and Illustrated by David Biedrzycki

I enjoyed this story. At first I thought that it might be too flat and dry but as the story progressed I became hooked. In just a few short pages Pallotta captures his readers through suspense and descriptive detail. I also found the illustrations to be fascinating as some looked as if they really were a picture and not a drawing.

Pallotta uses descriptive words that sound like what they mean such as “splash.” He also grips his readers with the added suspense on whether the protagonist will make it out alive. He not only utilizes great literary skills but also teaches about the food chain. Any students who read this book will be gripped with the excitement of the first person narrative, almost imagining that they are there as well.

           The illustrations add to the story as well. They add to the tension with the muted colors and contrasting red. Biedrzycki also seems to master the underwater world of fish not only capturing what is happening in the book but allowing readers several glances to take it all in.

           I might use this book as a read aloud. It would definitely entice children. I think that although most ages would appreciate this book it is geared for the younger ages. I might use this book for an introduction on a unit about the ocean or the food chain. It might also be a good book to discuss the word suspense and first person. I recommend this book.

           It is also important to note a the publishing information is at the back of the book so that the story starts on the first page.

Published: 2000

Octopus Oyster Hermit Crab Snail A poem of the Sea written and illustrated by Sara Anderson

I enjoyed this book, although I was not in love with it. I found the illustration nice and quaint and it was a fun book to read. I would never read it as a read aloud but I would have it on my shelf. The entire book is a poem and Anderson does a good job with her rhyming. Although she does not use perfect rhyme she does set up a pattern.

            Anderson’s illustrations are very colorful with muted tones to help set the mood for her poem. She also make’s her cover continue onto the back with her ocean background also beginning before the publishing information. She has a distinct style that brings imaginative life to her little sea creatures. This book would be good for students who are learning about poetry as the entire book is one. She uses great vocabulary such as “scurry” and “clatter” to get her point across. These worlds really draw on the sensory details Anderson wishes to get across to readers.

I would use this book as a free read in my room. I would also recommend in to students if we are doing a poetry unit. I would not choose it as a read aloud since I think I can find some better poetry literature out their but it is always an option.

Published: 2005

Underwater Counting by Jerry Pallotta and Illustrated by David Bierdrzycki

I absolutely love this book. I usually am not a big fan of counting books but this book is not your typical counting book.

I knew I was in for a treat because the cover continued its picture onto the back of the book. The author’s and illustrator’s name is written in a wave shape on the covers along with the title. The illustrations were beautiful. The flashy colors made the underwater life truly come alive. Bierdrzycki also made his fish look realistic enough that one might just do a Mary Poppins and reach into the picture and touch them. Yet, he also still has an almost mystical appearance that would entice readers on a fascinating journey through the sea counting fish. He has the fish appear as if you might see them at sea. They are not in neat little rows like some counting books but sometimes only a part of a fish will appear or some might be draped in shadow the further into the deep ocean the reader ventures.

            The illustrations are not the only exciting thing about this book but so is the text. The text is not a typical counting book. Pallotta uses comedy as it goes through counting the fish. He also gives insightful scientific facts when on each page about the fish. The counting almost becomes secondary in the excitement of all of the different kinds of fish being discussed and what is unique about each. However, Pallotta does not tell his readers his facts but shows them. He does a very good job of making the reader feel like the expert and not using any condescending tones. Sometimes “counting books” after the age four can seem too simple and babying. They uses phrases like “can you count all the fish?” or “lets count the fish, 1,2…”  Pallotta does not. He uses phrases like “These eight sailfish are a type of billfish.” This book does not only teach students how to count but will teach students about fish and the sea. It will also expand their imaginations as they view Bierdrzycki’s illustrations.

I would use this book with any age student. Although it is a counting book the illustrations and text would be engaging and enjoyable. This book also will help children learn not only how to count to ten but all the way to fifty. This would be a great book for parents to read to their children and for students as a read aloud let alone in their library. I recommend this book to all teachers.

Published: 2001

It’s A Secret written and illustrated by John Burningham

I found this book rather boring. I did not find the illustrations elaborate or incredibly detailed. They were simplistic in form and did not add any new insights to the story. I did not enjoy this book.

            Although Burnningham distinctly chooses several distinct colors to use throughout the story, the illustration’s styles looked as if they were drawn with pencil and marker or crayons.  The text had a specific pattern and rhyme as many children’s books do. It takes readers on an imaginary journey to where cats go at night but the tale is bland with any sensory or imagery details. The tone at times nears that of condescending. Although Burningham is a well know author I did not much care for this book and do not recommend it to other teachers. I feel in comparison to several others the masterful picture books I have read over the course of the weeks that there are more insightful and equipped books out there.

Published: 2009

Art & Max written and illustrated by David Wiesner

I did not mean to get another Wiesner book. I was in the library flipping through books and was captured by this one’s elaborate illustrations. I took it home. It was not wordless so I didn’t think to check and see if it was Wiesner. I guess it goes to show why he won the Caldecotte Medal three times, (only the second person in history to do that). This book is not only a fantastic story about a little lizard attempting to paint but teaches students through showing (not telling) how to paint. He takes painting to its very basic elements of line, shape and color. As Max attempts to fix Arthur he learns how to point. Students will not only be craving to read this book over and over again but they will gain basic knowledge in painting.

Wiesner uses detailed illustrations that tell his story. The masterful details make each read have new insight into the characters, places and story. He uses a variety of colors to get his comical story across. The words add to the story but very few of them are needed to understand the story. His illustrations almost do the job for themselves as seen in Flotsam and Tuesday.  Wiesner is highly capable of doing this.

I would recommend this book to all teachers. I think this is a must have for art teachers. I would use this book when discussing art in class. I also would have it in my classroom as a read aloud. Like all of Wienser’s books this is a great read for all ages.

Published: 2010

The Red Book by written and Illustrated by Barba Lehman

I found this book to be a lot of fun. I enjoyed the idea of a magical book and adventurous journey using balloons to fly. This is another wordless book that I found entertaining and enjoyable.

The qualities of the illustrations themselves did not compare to the elaborate illustrations of David Wiesner, but they did have their own flair. They were simple in shape but did have detailed images of space and location. There were also moments where they read more like a graphic novel with several pictures stacked up on each other. She uses complementary colors and line to shape her images. The character’s emotions were neatly conveyed on the characters faces without words. Allowing the reader to be the expert and discover what was happening.

I might have this book in my library. I would not choose it to have it read aloud due to the fact of its simple illustrations. It is a great book for students interacting in the reading process for the first time. Therefore I recommend this book for younger grades. Although Wiesner’s masterful illustrations would be enjoyable and fascinating even for the upper grades Lehman’s does not.

Published: 2004

The Misfits by James Howe

It was entertaining and had a great message. The idea of a “No Name Party” is something that all students can learn from no matter what the age. The book itself, however, I found to be simple in form and did not care for its literary style. I found the character somewhat stereotypical and flat.

The writing dialogue was somewhat unrealistic in my mind. I did not think Howe did a very good job with showing his readers and not telling his readers. Nor did his descriptions seem well crafted. Although I was not impressed with the quality of text the message is golden. Also students of all ages seem to truly enjoy this book.

I would use this book if bullying or name calling became and issue…which there always seems to be some. I would do a unit on perspective and thinking of why we bully. I would do this with older students who are accustom to reading chapter books. It would be very powerful for those in the same grades as Addie and Bobby. There are two picture books although the names escape me that discuss gossip and putdowns. One is for boys and the other is for girls. I think I would read aloud both of those book while we were reading this one. I also had a friend in my Drama in the Classroom who created a lesson plan for the last chapter of the book. In it she has the students read Bobby’s script. Highlighting certain parts where the students read in unison and in another color the ones where student read or another. She reads all the other parts. I would most definitely incorporate this into what ever lesson I chose to do with his lesson.

Published: 2001

The Giver by Lois Lowry

I enjoyed the fanatical tail of Jonas in his sterile and orderly world. I found it to be very entertaining and insightful. It not only was about the adventures of a boy taking his place in life but it hit on several deeper issues of humanity.

Lois Lowry sets up a very logical and yet imaginative world. As all good Si-Fi and fiction she doesn’t stop there but makes it relatable to life. Her ideas of sameness and the way they are portrayed bring up several questions within our own society. Her book is beautifully crafted in descriptive details and precise diction. She does a brilliant job of showing her reader and not telling them.

I would use this book in my classroom. This would be a great book to use with upper grade students, especially those students who are 12, the same age as Jonas. This book would bring about some great discussions on sameness and the idea of release. It can even lend itself into some philosophical conversations on what is right and what is wrong and how do we know. I would recommend this book to teachers.

Published: 1999

Rose Blanche written and illustrated by Roberto Innocenti

I found this book to be powerful use of historical fiction. I was moved by the story and felt that it truly represented what it is like for a child to experience something like war and not understand it. I would most definitely have it in my classroom. However, I think that I would need to explain it before I allowed it on my shelf as a free read.

            Roberto Innocenti does a brilliant job with dealing with such a solemn moment in history as the Holocaust from the view of a Germen child. The book lends itself to an emotion loss toward the end just like one might experience who was there. It ends on a moment of hope leaving the reader not completely devastated. The author who similar to the protagonist lived in Germany during WWII draws on his own experiences to tell the tale of Rose Blanch.  The illustrations are very detailed and add to the story giving it a setting and mood. The muted colors of gray and red add to the emotions of the loss in war. Although the illustrations are realistic they do not show any images of the true horror of the Holocaust. It is through the story itself that the reader gains the knowledge although the text doesn’t go into detail. The author makes some brilliant choices with plot and diction to set the mood and tone of the book. He places the story in winter and uses detailed imagery like “old, broken toys” to show his readers and not tell them what is happening.

            I would use this book in my classroom. It does not go into great detail about the concentration camps although it mentions them. This allows the teacher to decide how in depth to go on the subject. This of course would depend on the age of the students. This book would also be great for those who have experienced the confusion of war. It can be easily misunderstood and Rose Blanch helps shed some light on her own. I would recommend this book to teacher as long as they used it with sensitivity as the subject entails.

Publish: 1985

Giant Children by Brod Bagert and illustrations by Tedd Arnold

I love this book of poems. I was never a fan of poetry as a child. I have only learned to appreciate it in my resent years. However, I loved this book. It was not a typical book of poems but was child friendly right from the start. It also was not condescending when read but clever.

            The illustrations are quite hysterical. They are not typical as seen with each character’s bulging eyes and too skinny arms and legs. They remind me of a comic book or something one might see on Nickelodian. They are not low quality however. The illustrations are detailed and help explain most of the intended meaning of the poems. This is a great aspect of the book as poems can be vague at times through language and imagery of their meanings and may need to be read several times before understanding them completely. For children just learning this process the illustrations will help them know if they are on the right track. The poetry itself is very relatable to children. It deals with issues that students might face and experience. The poetry is nothing shy of excellent however, some of them rhyme but not all, breaking any stereotype that students might have of poetry style.

            Over all I would represent these books to students. I would love to have them in my classroom and might even pick a couple of my favorites to read aloud during a poetry unit. This book would be great for students just learning about poetry. It guides them through illustrations as to what the poems are about. This book would not be needed (even though students would still enjoy it) for the upper grades that could have multiple interpretations for one poem as the illustrations might limit them.

Published: 2002

The Un-Wedding written and illustrated Babette Cole

I understand what Babette Cole is trying to accomplish with her book. Helping children understand why their parents are getting a divorce through her comical portrayal might help them deal with the emotional weight of their own. This book I felt dealt with the heavy issue of divorce in a light and sensitive way. The words were well chosen and did not take sides. However, the idea of a book that influences children to get their parents  “un-wed” isn’t something I personally wish to teach. I would not read this book in my classroom for that reason. I have experienced divorce with multiple friends and students. The experience of which was devastating. I have even met individuals who have attempted suicide because of their parent’s decision to divorce. I feel that literature that helps children cope with divorce is needed. However, for me personally, this book crossed the line to promoting divorce. The only reason why parents should get a divorce is the fact that they no longer get along. Personally I do not feel like this is a good enough reason to get a divorce. I know this is my personal opinion but that I why I would need a stronger argument than that this is a well written book to have it in my classroom. I think I could find some better picture books that deal with the very sensitive issue of divorce.

The story itself is well written. The text does use a broad range of vocabulary and has several moments of words that sound like what they mean. The illustrations themselves are quite elaborate. The details on each page add to not only the story but give a deeper understanding to the characters themselves that cannot be found within the text. The characters each have their own personalities and the illustrations keep that consistent thought out the story. I loved the illustrations and found them not only informative but comical.

I would not use this text in my classroom for personal reasons. I do think that books that deal with literature is important but this one seemed to have several underlining tones that I did not appreciat. I felt this book was well written and would like to read books with illustrations by Joe Cepeda again.

Published: 1998

Nappy Hair by Carolivia Herron and Illustrated by Joe Cepeda

My first reaction to this story was bewilderment. I felt slightly racist as I read the stereotyped lingo used in the text and stereotyped slang. It took me several reads before I felt I understood the text. I realized that the text was not stereotyping but mimicking a specific culture and embracing its customs. This book uses a southern gospel way of speech and the entire topic is about race. I still do not feel comfortable reading the text aloud. I felt slightly racist but why? I really didn’t know. If the text truly embraced a specific time and people then I shouldn’t feel any different reading the text then getting into character of reading Amelia Bedelia. I now understand what Wolman Bonilla meant on page 289 when he said “Teachers commonly objected to texts that reflect gender, ethnic, race, or class experiences that differed from their own.” I felt this was exactly what I was doing. Just because I am uncomfortable with the text doesn’t mean this book is inappropriate.          

            I felt that this book’s quality in and of itself is decent. The words are not condescending in tone, but it does take some cultural understanding for them not to be. The illustrations are painterly in style and add to the story.  I also did some research on the author of this book. She is a well renowned author who has written from her own experiences as well as those of her relatives. She has won several awards for these books.

            After much consideration I feel that I would read this book in my class. If I did however I would do it with a unit on slavery or race. Explaining the kind of culture the book represents and discusses several of the issues brought up within the text. I do feel that there might be some more recent literature out there that I might pick over this book. I am not apposed to reading it in my class.

Produced by 1997

A Step of Heaven written by An Na

At first I was incredibly confused by the way it started. I was worried that I would not understand anything that was going on with all of the different Korean words and the dialogue was very disorientating. After the second chapter however, I began to understand what was going on and actually enjoyed it. The book’s content had some pretty heavy material about physical abuse and cultural barriers that I would not recommend for students under that age of ten. Even those 5^th grade thought 8^th should have some help handling the material.

The book itself masterfully captures the perspective of little Young Ju as she travels from Korea at a young age and deals with the consequences of an abusive father. The characters themselves are deep and mysterious. Each chapter reveals a little more insight.  An Na writes through detail of how to show but not tell her readers what her character are thinking. This adds even more depth to each character as there can be multiple guesses for what they really feel.

Na does a great job depicting the viewpoint from a young immigrant child. The beginning of the book is chopping in description because Young Ju doesn’t understand exactly what is going on. She thinks the Mi Gook (America) is heaven and that the flying bus (airplane) will take her there. This not only gives the character a specific voice that Na develops as she ages but also gives the reader insight as to what a small child might be thinking. When she arrives in America, Na does a great job of showing the language barrier. From Young Ju’s perspective the reader experiences English completely garbled just as an immigrant child, “Ah ri cas, ca mo ve he.” You can almost hear the teacher addressing the class as she introduces Young Ju to the class. This book was great to read for the educator as well. It gave certain insights that I might not have thought about such as what immigrant children experience in a classroom.

The story is not all about migrating to America and a young lady growing up in a Korean American home. It is also about a desperate mother striving to make a good life for her children, an abusive father, a family struggling in poverty. The inside view of how a family that struggles with physical abuse may live under the assumption that there is no better alternative is devastating. There are several moments where Young Ju wonders why her parents do not tease like Amanda her American friend’s parents do. She believes that the difference is culture but never thinks that physical abuse is something unique. She has grown up with it all her life and it take years for her to realize that it is wrong and to get the courage to do something about it.

As teacher this book would be great to read personally to gain perspective on the life of children experiencing similar circumstances. It also is a great book to read to a class. This would be something that would bring up heavy issues and deep classroom discussions. Why did Young Ju think it was normal for her father to beat her uhmma (mother)? Why didn’t she get new shoes? Are there people who are living like this in America right now? What can we do to help? There are hundreds of questions that this book brings up for students. As a teacher you just have to decide what you would like to discuss. I completely recommend this book for teachers, however, due to the content I only recommend it for older grades.

Published: 2001

2002 Michael L. Printz Award

The Garden of Eve by K. L. Going

I found this book adorable and suspenseful and I think children will really love its adventure and mysterious secrets. I enjoyed reading the book very much. It was a very easy read, most likely at a third or fourth grade reading level. However, most grades will be impressed by the breathtaking storyline and adventure of little Evie.

The story’s plot line is about a little girl dealing with the grief of her mother’s death and a young boy dealing with the grief of his brother’s - work together to bring life back to an ancient orchard through mysterious magic. The issues presented in this book are difficult and temperamental but Going’s way of working magic into producing the hope to keep living is performed beautifully. The writing itself is very simplistic. She does not shy away from a broader range of vocabulary but the writing is not too difficult. She also does some foreshadowing with Eve’s mother’s story in the beginning of the book. This gives students a great time to make predictions. She also uses several patterns in her writing with gardens and certain character names that provide layers for the readers.

This book would be great in a classroom. It might be a good book for a book group to do or for independent reading. Students could easily try to make predictions while reading this book. This book also would be a great book for students to practice writing from another person’s perspective. How much the story would change if it was from Adam’s perspective? The images described in this book might provide some very inspiring classroom art work if the teacher would like to add the more artsy side of literature. I recommend this book for grades 3 through 6.

Published: 2007

Michael L. Printz Honor Winner

Ginger and Petunia written and illustrated by Patricia Polacco.

I absolutely love this book. The story is so cute. I think that the story is so hysterical about a pig that dresses up like her master. This book has a lot of instances for dramatic action. Where as a teacher you can stop and have the kids pantomime the emotion Petunia was having at that moment. The text itself is brilliant like most of Polacco’s books she uses great vocabulary. She also uses great detail “A wry smile crept across Petunia’s face…” The words “wry” and “crept” are great descriptions that enrich the story. She uses more descriptive verbs that help children learn how to write better. For instances she uses “she cooed” or “tugged off her…” or “dragged her…” all of these verbs convey more information that a simple “say” or “took off” or “took”. The more children read high quality writing the better they will become.

The illustrations are drawn with pencil and colored. They help add little asides to the story. For example the section of the book where she listens to her students the text says “she listens….she listens….and listens!” The illustrations show a very dramatic Ginger swooning over she piano and listening dutifully to her students. The text does not mention that it is tedious but the illustrations clearly imply it. The images also have a very good use of line. The use of line helps adds a layer to the style of lavish lifestyle that Ginger and Petunia live. This book would be great to be a read aloud to students. It also has places where student might like to act out. I recommend this book.

Published:2007

The Three Pigs written and Illustrated by David Wiesner

Another masterful child’s book is The Three Little Pigs. If you are looking for a traditional story, than do not choose David Wiesner’s version. He masterfully captures the story being the literal book. Each illustration take the reader further and further into a world were pigs literally jump off the pages of there own story to join someone else. At one point of the book the three little pigs take the page of their own book and construct a paper airplane then catch a ride on it. This book does exactly what all well written stories do. It sets up a certain paradigm and than changes it. Forcing the reader to grab on with both hands as Wiesner takes them on a illustrated ride they don’t often get to experience.

Not only does the story itself shy away from all clichés and common expectations (for instance the dragon about to be attacked by a knight helps the three little pigs after they take him from his book) but also the art work itself is brilliant. Each story the three little pigs make their way into causes their appearance to alter. At one point in the story the three little pigs make their way into a story about a cat and a fiddle. The story is very cartoon like and looks to be the kind one might see in a baby book with pastel colors and sweaty little faces. The pigs change from their original style of a more mature realistic color drawing to that of the cartoon. They change back into their original drawing when they leave the story. The illustrations all are riddled with detail and well thought out color patterns.

 The illustrations are not the only thing that makes this book great. This one actually has words. The text takes more of a back seat to the illustration than that of a more traditional story but that just seems to be the way Wiesner works. For instance the section where the three pigs and the dragon leave the dragon story the text says “The prince spurred his steed to the mountaintop, drew his sword and slew the mighty dragon.” The picture displayed shows a young knight off his horses scratching his head as he looks for the dragon. Which is part of the humor. Not only do the words play with the illustrations but they are well written as well. Wiesner does not use a condescending tone but uses descriptive vocabulary like in the excerpt from above “spurred” and “slew.” This helps children expand their own vocabulary. There is also a point where one of the pig’s faces are blown up on the page with a quizzical look and says, “I think… someone’s out there.” allowing the reader to experience the illusion that this is actually happening.  

I would use this book with all ages. I would love to read it as a read aloud to the entire class as well as encourage my students to read it individually. This book would be great to get students excited about reading. I could also use it to discuss points of view. How this story is written from the point of view of the three little pigs. They should write their own story using a traditional fairytale from the point of view from other characters.

Published in 2001

Winner of the 2002 Caldecott Medal

Flotsam written and Illustrated by David Wiesner

I loved Tuesday by David Wiesner so much that I had to blog about another one of his great book. A book filled with mystery, science, history, technology, mystical worlds and intricate illustrations. Flotsam doesn’t have any words but again like most of Wiesner’s books Flotsam doesn’t need them. The book is a mastery of illustrated story telling. The adorable story of a boy finding a camera on a beach and the secrets he finds is incredible. I could write pages on this short little children’s book. I absolutely adored one point of the story when the boy discovers film within the camera. He gets it developed and realizes that this camera has been taking picture since the 1800 hundreds. This magical camera has not only taken pictures of people but also the mysteries of ocean life. The pictures display entire worlds under the sea…captured on film. One photo revealed little green aliens landing in the coral reef while another captured a mechanical fish swimming along besides other real fish. The facial expression on one of the fish’s face who noticed the oddity of the machine fish is priceless. The illustrations show how truly great illustration can communicate.

No matter how many times I reread this book I discover another insight in a picture. The picture begins before the publishing information and the title with a boy playing on a beach.  The page with the publishing and title information are covered with little images that one might often find by the seashore with the exception of a plastic pig which breaks the stereotype and alerts the reader to more causes. This is not an ordinary book. This is also displayed with a compass that does not point north right underneath the title itself. The first picture is up close but than zooms out. Each illustration has some humor and suspense as the young protagonist slowly unravels some of the mystery behind the ancient camera. Weisner does a marvelous job with making the reader work to understand and not just laying it out right there in front of them This make the child feel like the expert as they have to deduct what is happing.

I recommend this book for almost any age. The older students will appreciate the well constructed pictures and mystery while the younger will love the fact that they do not need to read to understand the story. I would love to show this book to my students. It’s a great intro to the power of pictures or how to read a book. I will definitely own this book someday. I completely recommend it to educators.

Published: 2006

Tuesday illustrated and written by David Wiesner

I loved this book. I found it cute and hilarious. This book had almost no words and yet the story was displayed beautifully through intricate illustrations. Each time I read it over I see something I have not noticed before, the sign of a good book. One of the things I liked the most about this book was that the story begins before the publishing information and the title. The first page is a crucial illustration that begins the story. The facial expression on the frogs’ faces as their lily pads begins to rise is ecstatic. Just from the pictures alone the child will know exactly what is going on. The only words besides the title was “Tuesday evening, around eight” and “Next Tuesday, 7:58 pm.”  There are two instances where specific times are given but those are the only other instances in the entire book. It relies almost completely on its illustrations. Without the word, David Wiesner masterly conveys humor, suspense and adventure. The mystery for why the lily pads rise is never explained but what happens when they do I would not want to miss. This book would be great to use in a classroom when showing different kinds of books. For students who are in the upper grades who may forget how much an illustration can tell of a story. It would also (for obvious reasons) be perfect for children who do not yet know hot to read. They almost don’t need to. Getting them to turn the page and begin the reading process almost before they know their ABCs.

Published: 1991

Edward and the Pirates written and illustrated by David McPhall

I enjoyed this book very much. It was exactly how I feel every time I sit down and read a book. I appreciated the creativity of different stories Edward (protagonist) brings to life. I found this book very enjoyable to read. I felt like this book would inspire children to read more because they too would want to experience the adventures that Edward gets to go on every time he reads a book.

This book does a very good job of showing more than telling. He still will at times tell, but for the most part David McPhall shows what Edward feels. It does fall short compared to other books for sensory details. It has its fare amount but there are certain places where it could add more. For example at one point in the text McPhall uses the line “Edward sat up and looked around and saw he was surrounded by pirates!” He never describes the pirates. He could say something like “Edward sat up and looked around to see golden teethed men, with golden earrings, shabby jackets and long cutlasses strapped to their belt. They leaned in closer and Edward could smell the sea on their jackets and the stench of men who have not showered for some time.” This would make the scene much more moving for younger readers. The story itself seems to rely upon the illustrations for the detailed descriptions. This could be because McPhall illustrates his own books and knows that he can count on the illustrations for this.

The illustrations do this very well. They look like paintings and one can see the brushstrokes on many of the illustrations. They also use many muted tones to help set the mood of traveling into different worlds of the imagination. The illustrations add detailed asides to the story. This book talks about Edward retrieving books, however, the illustrations shows him not only picking out a book from the library but also pirates hiding behind the shelves watching him. Although the words do not describe the pirates the illustrations allows the child to see them for him/herself. This book would be great to use before students visit a library.

 It introduces several different genres of books that might help a child pick out the type of book they want to read. If I was teaching the class I would like to do a small unit on different types of books and have this one be one of the books I read to the class about books. I could also use this book to discuss why so many people love to read. What reading can do as an incentive for the students to pick up a book.

Published: 1997

Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes by Mem Fox and Illustrations by Helen Oxenbury

This is an adorable book. What a cute little story with such a deep purpose. The method Mem Fox uses to send her message is priceless. What a better way to let little children know that no matter what race we are all the same than through fingers and toes. This is one of the first things children begin to do is to count their fingers and toes.

This book would be great to read to children age 7 and down although most would still enjoy it for a couple more years depending on the child. This target for this book specifically would most likely be the very early ages of 4 or 5. This would be a great book to read to a group of preschoolers. The story uses rhyming but they are more subtle when read aloud that makes the story almost seem smoother on the ears as if a lullaby. The ending of course seals the deal as it allow the parent reading the book to kiss their little child confirming they are special not only because of their toes but because they are their parent’s child. What a sweet way to end this book.

The book would not be anything without Helen Oxenbury’s illustrations. They really enhance the book. The story mentions in the text the different locations of the babies. For a child the illustrations help them understand what that means. The text of “and another in a tent, who was just as nice,” may leave the child wondering but the image confirms what the text means. And having the smiling babies from all nationalities together helps the child understand Fox’s purpose. Oxenbury does a great job with the personalities of the characters. Each baby displays a different emotion on their face. I get a kick out of the baby from Asia sitting on the steps with six others. She is leaning against the steps a little smug smile on her face as she looks off into the distance. How adorable and what great details. This adds just one more layer of depth to Fox’s craft. Each illustration of a baby from another country expands the child’s cultural world view.

Published: 2008

Note: Was on New York Times bestseller lists for 18 wks in 2008-2009

In Sep. 2009 it was on the top of Oprah’s list of best books for children age 0-2

Koala Lou by Mem Fox and Illustrated by Pamela Lofts

This book was engaging to read and heartfelt. Any child who has more than one sibling in their family can relate to this book. Whether they are seeking the attention of a mother, father or guardian they will relate to this story. In an ingenious way Mem Fox reaffirms children that their parents still loves them. A child may not be able to understand this when their mother/guardian spends less time with them as they take on more responsibility with fellow siblings. Being the eldest I understand how this can happen. When I was two my first sister was born, and I did not like to share my mother. I am sure at the time it was hard to believe my mother still loved me the same. All I understood was that she spent most of her time with my baby sister.
Fox’s story is successful because it is not just about a Koala in Australia but a mother and daughter relationship that can be related to by multiple audiences. She does a great job with showing and not telling the reader what to believe. One instance of this is when Koala Lou saw how good a climber Koala Klaws was she said “Can I do better than that?” Fox does not say the Koala Lou wonders if she can win but allows readers to deduct that for themselves.

Another aspect of Fox’s genius is that the main focus is the story. However not only does the story teach about how parents still love their children even when they have several others, but that their love is unconditional. Although Koala Lou came second her mother still told her she loved her. Koala Lou didn’t need to be perfect to win her mother’s affection. This message will speak volumes to children. Again Fox does not say, “And Koala Lou’s mother loved her no matter what.” Instead she shows Koala Lou being loved by her mother and being told by her mother that she loves her.  This allows the reader once again to engage the text and be the expert. Just like the name of the Olympics being the Bush Olympics. Although the Fox never mentions Australia just from the name and variety of animals the reader knows the location

The illustrations were perfect for this story. They are colorful and detailed. They allowed the child’s eyes to soak everything in. Each time I reread the story I would catch something I didn’t see before. The style was that of painterly media and the use of a variety of color. What I enjoy the most was the emotions gleaned from the illustrations. Without even reading the text the illustrations told the story. The scene where little Koala Lou watches her mother with her siblings from a lonely tree branch is priceless. You actually want to rush into the illustration itself and give Koala Lou a big hug and whisper into her big bushy ears that everything would be alright. The images are just adorable especially when Koala Lou trains for the big Bush Olympics. After multiple images of her exercising the last one depicts her exhausted on the ground, shoe laces untied. This adds to the story. The text just says she works out “over and over again.” But for a young child the image of Koala Lou eyes glazed and mouth gapping sends the message home.

Pamela Lofts illustrations however are not just limited to the Koala Lou and her mother. She fills her framed images with differed native Australian creatures of all kinds with a variety of color. Most are never mentioned in the text. She adds almost another side of the Olympics. The images reveal the burning torch of brush held by a small animal to mark the beginning of the Olympics much like the real Olympics would begin. She also comically has a Tasmanian Devil and other small creatures measure and time Koala Klaws’s run. Clearly they are judges of the clime with their long measuring tape and large stop watch.

This book would be great for ages third grade on down. Although I think that any age could appreciate what it does. I would read it to a class if I thought some children were dealing with self worth issues but really it could be read at any time. The book could be read to the class or independently as it tailors itself to an array of situations.
Published: 1988

Boo to a goose by Mem Fox and pictures by David Miller

My first reaction was to the rhyming. I felt like they were well written rhymes. They broke certain paradigms that would make a reader take interest in what the author was saying. I didn’t much care for the illustrations out of personal taste. There were pictures of 3D images constructed out of paper and other objects. In the illustration of a town with the young boy who had balloons on his feet, the illustrator uses actual string to tie the balloons on the boy’s feet. I personally felt like this sort of imagery limited the potential of this book. Others might say that its unique style enhanced it and made it different from many other picture books, but I did not care for it.

This book would be limited to the younger ages otherwise it would seem to be condescending for the upper grades.  2^nd Grade on down would find this book entertaining and engaging. This book sets a pattern and tone with its rhyming nature of that of a song. The author does a great job with adding in precise vocabulary such as the rhyme, “I would dye my hair yellow and make my Grandma bellow.” Bellow has more weight than the more common word yell, not to mention bellow rhymes with yellow. It also goes along with the singsong rhythm of the book were you can almost hear the word bellow.

The pictures of the book are well thought out. They definitely rely on a strong form of shape and line to bring the mood across to most readers. The pictures go along with the story for the most part. They do not add more insight than the words themselves imply except for a few cases. One is where the wording goes “I’d skip across town with my pants hanging down.” The picture in this section shows the shocked faces of pedestrians sitting on a bench and watching from a window. Even the baby in the stroller turns to look. Another place the picture adds certain meaning to the words is where the text states, “I’d play with a snake if I found one awake.” In this section the picture depicts a snake with dominoes underneath. Clearly implying that play means games, specifically dominoes. Many of the pictures fail to give a sense of another world. It is clear that this is make-believe. This is best represented with the image mentioned earlier with the boys pants hanging down and pedestrians shocked at the sight. One young boy with a baseball cap gasps at the obscene sight before him from a widow. The window is not attached to any building but hanging in limbo above the pedestrians on the bench. This does not allow the illusion of an actual window but shows it plainly for what it is: a man-made, three-dimensional paper image of a window. This for me personally distracts from the author’s words but for some it might be a creative way to see things. Not everything has to be believable. Sometimes it is intriguing to have a window without a building.
Published:1998

Zoo-Looking by Mem Fox and Illustrated by Candace Whitman

I found this to be simplistic in form. It had a singsong feel and would seem to be engaging for younger children. Children under the age of 7 would enjoy this book very much. One theme that Mem Fox likes to put into her books is “loving relationships.” She ends most of her books with a mother and daughter kissing goodnight or saying I love you too or as in this book, a father smiling back. She captures the child’s need to be loved. Even they did not have a father whatever father figure in their life would be smiling back at them. She also ends it without telling the reader too much. Instead of saying Flora’s father loved her dearly she simply states that he smiles. She uses this tiny detail to get the more serious undertone across. This marks a brilliant writer. Fox certainly seems to know how to write for little children so they can be the expert. Her words are simple at times but do not tell everything allowing the child to become the export and avoid condescending undertones. She also uses words that sound like they should. For instance there is a point in the text where she uses the word “whack.” This allows the child to laugh as they hear the sound and understand its meaning.

The illustrations in this book are a mastery in true form. They give the appearance of almost child-like drawing but with the decision of a true artist. For instance in the scene at the end, Whitman uses complementary colors to give a sense of unity for the work. The shapes make the work seem almost fuzzy in places. Whitman’s gorilla makes him look more like a stuffed animal than an actual breathing gorilla. These childlike shapes help them become more relatable to small children who might shy away from a real gorilla.

I would only use this book in classrooms of preschool and kindergarten to read to the entire class. However, I would only allow it to be read independently with the upper grades such as second or third, as well as, kindergarten and preschool as long as it was the right book for them individually. This book could begin to help them with predicting. As the patterns ends with almost every other page’s text using the words “looked back” the children would be able to say it with me; building community and other 21^st century skills.
Published: 1996

Time for Bed by Mem Fox and Illustrated by Jane Dyer

This story at first seemed to repetitive. Although I am used to receptiveness in children books the first line always repeated itself. For example “It’s Time for bed, little mouse, little mouse,” or “It’s time for bed, little goose little goose.” Then however as I read it more and more I realized how calming the repeated words were and how the repetitiveness was like counting sheep. It slowly would rock a child to sleep. The story in and of itself was quite good. It starts out with describing the world outdoors and how it’s time for bed. Than it points directly at the reader asking what they are doing still awake; it uses animals to get its point across. Mem Fox ends her book with saying good night to a little child. This would be a great book to read to a child as they go to sleep. This book uses at time the second person narrative and thus a character’s voice appears. This allows the reader themselves to become the character putting their child to sleep. She also uses the pattern of words to help children predict what is coming next.

The only time I would read this book to students in a classroom is if it was nap time. This book is great for lulling a child to sleep. Jane Dyer’s choice of color helps with this process. She uses muted hues of complementary colors on each page. The style itself is painterly as one can at places see the brush strokes. All of this combined with the soft words help close a child’s heavy eyelids.
Published: 1993