Blue Lipstick: Concrete Jungle
John Grandits
Grandits, John. 2007. Blue Lipstick: Concrete Jungle. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN: 9780618568604.
This book of poetry tells the high school life of Jessie in the most unconventional way, which is the beauty of this work of fictional poetry. Functioning more like stream of thought versus traditional poetry this book takes the high school experience and puts it into expressive thought and diction. Grandits truly seems to understand the teenage girl high school experience and reflects that in his work. Covering topics such as volleyball practice, English assignments, and siblings, Jessie’s life makes those that have already lived through high school never want to relive it. At the same time those that are in high school will fully identify with the issues that span the pages.
Not following any traditional rhyme or scheme, the poetry presented in this book is meant to mimic one thing, the tumultuous teenage life. The arrangement of the poems on the page are a visual synonym to the poems they represent, full of angst and tumult. For instance the poem titled, “Silver Spandex”, which is about a guitar is written in the shape of a guitar.
The language used in this book mimics that of a high school girl as if one had really written the words. Using carefully crafted sentences and words, the poems speak to the reader, knowing they will understand. There is no group left out in the book, all are represented and carefully strewn across the page. The imagery of this book is the crux of the book. The images are the poems and the poems are the images. Without both there would be a loss of distinction and understanding. The creativity is so spectacular it is hard to put in words how the book works and why.
Emotion is running rampant through the book. Whether the reader is a teenager, young adult or grandparent, all of the themes in this book are real and invoke an involuntary emotional response. The reader can feel and relate to every piece they read.
Gathering many positive reviews and awards, this book reaches audiences of every type.
"This irreverent, witty collection should resonate with a wide audience." School Library Journal, Starred.
"A cover that'll grab adolescent girls' attention--and the poetry inside is equally appealing." Horn Book.
2008 honor book for the Lee Bennett Hopkins Award
Readers who loved this book of poetry will also enjoy the book told from Jessie’s brothers point of view: Technically, It's Not My Fault: Concrete Poems.
This book struck a chord with me from the very first poem. I could identify with every word that was written. As was mentioned in the review these poems are creative and truthful and really speak to the inner emotions that teens may want to keep hidden. It took me straight back to that time in my life and made me realize that while it was horrible at the time it really shaped the person I am today. This book would make a great gift for the sullen teenager that a parent does not know how to connect with. It would show that the understanding is there and that they are not alone with how they feel.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Mirror, Mirror by Marilyn Singer
Mirror Mirror: A Book of Reversible Verse
Marilyn Singer
Singer, Marilyn. 2010. Illustrated by Josee Masse. Mirror Mirror: A book of reversible verse. New York: Dutton Children’s Books. ISBN: 9780525479017.
Two sides of a story in one poem? Impossible? Not for Marilyn Singer, who earned a starred review in Booklist for her book of poems, Mirror, Mirror. This book of poetry is known as reverso, which is a type of poetry created by the author. The basic concept is reading a poem down one way and then the same poem up the opposite way. This is a creative way to tell a story and much harder than it looks. The poems in this topical collection are all based on fairy tales, from The Ugly Duckling to Beauty and the Beast. Oftentimes, the poems will have one character narrating the original poem and another character narrating the reverse. Most children reading these poems will recognize all of their favorite Grimm or Disney fairy tales.
This is not the typical poetry book when it comes to characteristics such as rhyme and rhythm. Some of the poems make use of rhyming but it is not the strength of the poetry. The strength comes in the language. To make this book of poetry work, the words have to be chosen carefully to ensure that the poem will make sense when read both directions. The arrangement of the words and how they are arranged on the page will make all the difference when being read. These poems are definitely meant to be read out loud and several times at least in order to catch the nuances the poet uses to make the poems meaningful and clear.
This book of poetry is laid out in the typical picture book format of 32 pages with illustrations. It does follow the format of one poem per page and the illustrations are bright and help guide the reader to which fairy tale is being written about if they are unsure just based on the poem itself. The illustrations also mimic the reverse idea of the poem, with the page split between two illustrations of the same picture.
In order to better understand the type of poetry written in this book, here is an example of a poem that the author uses to explain her poetry:
First way:
A cat
Without
A chair:
Incomplete.
Second way:
Incomplete:
A chair
Without
Cat.
(Singer, 2010)
Since a majority of the poems might be familiar to the reader, the emotions can be predetermined. Most readers will have a grasp on the characters and have already made up their minds as to who their favorites are. This is great, because it will make them see some of them in a new light as the poems are read. Adults and children alike will love this type of poetry. It is creative, genius, fun, carefree, and familiar.
From School Library Journal
“The vibrant artwork is painterly yet unfussy and offers hints to the characters who are narrating the poems. An endnote shows children how to create a "reverse" poem. This is a remarkably clever and versatile book that would work in any poetry or fairy-tale unit. A must-have for any library.”—Joan Kindig, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA
From Booklist
“Singer also issues an invitation for readers to try to write their own reversos on any topic. Matching the cleverness of the text, Masse’s deep-hued paintings create split images that reflect the twisted meaning of the irreverently witty poems and brilliantly employ artistic elements of form and shape—Cinderella’s clock on one side morphs to the moon on the other. A must-purchase that will have readers marveling over a visual and verbal feast.” --Patricia Austin
Marilyn Singer has many other books of poetry (and non-poetry) that young (and adult) readers might enjoy: Twosomes: Love Poems from the Animal Kingdom, Central Heating: Poems About Fire and Warmth, and How to Cross a Pond: Poems About Water.
The poems in this book scream for classroom activity. Having children try to write their own reverso poems would be a fun activity that could span many different subjects in the classroom.
Marilyn Singer
Singer, Marilyn. 2010. Illustrated by Josee Masse. Mirror Mirror: A book of reversible verse. New York: Dutton Children’s Books. ISBN: 9780525479017.
Two sides of a story in one poem? Impossible? Not for Marilyn Singer, who earned a starred review in Booklist for her book of poems, Mirror, Mirror. This book of poetry is known as reverso, which is a type of poetry created by the author. The basic concept is reading a poem down one way and then the same poem up the opposite way. This is a creative way to tell a story and much harder than it looks. The poems in this topical collection are all based on fairy tales, from The Ugly Duckling to Beauty and the Beast. Oftentimes, the poems will have one character narrating the original poem and another character narrating the reverse. Most children reading these poems will recognize all of their favorite Grimm or Disney fairy tales.
This is not the typical poetry book when it comes to characteristics such as rhyme and rhythm. Some of the poems make use of rhyming but it is not the strength of the poetry. The strength comes in the language. To make this book of poetry work, the words have to be chosen carefully to ensure that the poem will make sense when read both directions. The arrangement of the words and how they are arranged on the page will make all the difference when being read. These poems are definitely meant to be read out loud and several times at least in order to catch the nuances the poet uses to make the poems meaningful and clear.
This book of poetry is laid out in the typical picture book format of 32 pages with illustrations. It does follow the format of one poem per page and the illustrations are bright and help guide the reader to which fairy tale is being written about if they are unsure just based on the poem itself. The illustrations also mimic the reverse idea of the poem, with the page split between two illustrations of the same picture.
In order to better understand the type of poetry written in this book, here is an example of a poem that the author uses to explain her poetry:
First way:
A cat
Without
A chair:
Incomplete.
Second way:
Incomplete:
A chair
Without
Cat.
(Singer, 2010)
Since a majority of the poems might be familiar to the reader, the emotions can be predetermined. Most readers will have a grasp on the characters and have already made up their minds as to who their favorites are. This is great, because it will make them see some of them in a new light as the poems are read. Adults and children alike will love this type of poetry. It is creative, genius, fun, carefree, and familiar.
From School Library Journal
“The vibrant artwork is painterly yet unfussy and offers hints to the characters who are narrating the poems. An endnote shows children how to create a "reverse" poem. This is a remarkably clever and versatile book that would work in any poetry or fairy-tale unit. A must-have for any library.”—Joan Kindig, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA
From Booklist
“Singer also issues an invitation for readers to try to write their own reversos on any topic. Matching the cleverness of the text, Masse’s deep-hued paintings create split images that reflect the twisted meaning of the irreverently witty poems and brilliantly employ artistic elements of form and shape—Cinderella’s clock on one side morphs to the moon on the other. A must-purchase that will have readers marveling over a visual and verbal feast.” --Patricia Austin
Marilyn Singer has many other books of poetry (and non-poetry) that young (and adult) readers might enjoy: Twosomes: Love Poems from the Animal Kingdom, Central Heating: Poems About Fire and Warmth, and How to Cross a Pond: Poems About Water.
The poems in this book scream for classroom activity. Having children try to write their own reverso poems would be a fun activity that could span many different subjects in the classroom.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Anansi and the Moss-Covered Rock by Eric A. Kimmel
Anansi and the Moss-Covered Rock
Eric A. Kimmel
Kimmel, Eric A. Illustrated by Janet Stevens. 1988. Anansi and the
Moss-Covered Rock. New York: Holiday House, Inc.
Anansi is the typical trickster when it comes to Kimmel's retelling of
a West African tale. Full of mischief and always looking for the easy
way out, the spider Anansi will stop at nothing. Walking through the
forest one day Anansi finds a magic rocks that knocks anyone out cold if
they say the words, "Isn't this a strange moss-covered rock!" Anansi
decides to trick all his "friends" into saying those words and then run
off with their food stores. After tricking several anthropomorphic
animals, Anansi himself is tricked by Little Bush Dear and he loses all
his stolen goods back to their owners.
The characters in this story do not fit the typical mold of good vs
evil, but they do have the basic human traits of greed, envy, and being
gullible. The characters are willing to please and unwittingly easy to
sway. If Anansi has been around for awhile one would think they would
know how he was by now.
A jungle setting is a perfect place for this story, as myth and magic
seem to surround the Africa culture. Although Kimmel never comes out and
says the setting, further reading shows where he got the story from.
Most children will see a jungle or forest setting as exotic and it will
have a place in their imagination of where the story takes place.
Always ending happily is usually a them of traditional literature, but
this story ends with mischief. Anansi is thwarted in his trickster plans
this time, however "he's still playing tricks to this very days". This
could be confusing to readers who are looking for a strong sense of
justice in the ending. Anansi does not learn his lesson, he just tries
to think up other ways to play tricks.
The style of the writing in this picture book lends itself to being
read out loud. The repetition of KPOM! when an animal says the magic
words is great for young readers following along. They come to know that
when the magic words are said, an animal will fall down. The magic motif
is strong through out the book and it is reflected in the telling. One
could argue that talking animals are magic also.
The illustrations in this picture tell a story that are strengthend by
the words. The pictures complement the story and do not lead ahead, what
is written is what you see. The characters are realistic and one can
almost read the expressions on their faces as they come and go from
their homes. On the first read through the story is focused on the
spider and his, how shall we say, victims. It is not until my second
read through that I realized the Little Bush Dear was hiding on every
page. What fun it was to then locate him on every page. This is great
for young readers who take in everything visually in a written picture
book. A story combined with a game gives the reader 2 activites in one.
Eric A. Kimmel has written many other Anansi stories that readers would
enjoy, some of those include: Anansi and the Talking Melon, Anansi and
the Talking Stick, Anansi Goes Fishing, and Anansi and the Pot of Beans.
Reviews of his books glow on aspects from the illustrations to his
writing.
"The text is rhythmic, nicely building suspense to the inevitable
conclusion," and "Anansi is portrayed as a large eight-legged arachnid;
his expression is in his motion. The other animals are almost realistic,
although with facial expressions that are characteristic of the artist's
work." Maria B. Salvadore, District of Columbia Public Library
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Overall, I found this a very fulfilling trickster tale. It had all the
elements of a good story mixed in with a little suspense, giggles, and a
suitable ending for Anansi. I did not walk away disappointed however,
the moral of the story is slightly lost in the fact the Anansi is still
up to his old tricks. Parents might want to make sure that their
children understand that there are repercussions to their actions. Just
because you get away with something once, does not mean you should keep
doing it.
Eric A. Kimmel
Kimmel, Eric A. Illustrated by Janet Stevens. 1988. Anansi and the
Moss-Covered Rock. New York: Holiday House, Inc.
Anansi is the typical trickster when it comes to Kimmel's retelling of
a West African tale. Full of mischief and always looking for the easy
way out, the spider Anansi will stop at nothing. Walking through the
forest one day Anansi finds a magic rocks that knocks anyone out cold if
they say the words, "Isn't this a strange moss-covered rock!" Anansi
decides to trick all his "friends" into saying those words and then run
off with their food stores. After tricking several anthropomorphic
animals, Anansi himself is tricked by Little Bush Dear and he loses all
his stolen goods back to their owners.
The characters in this story do not fit the typical mold of good vs
evil, but they do have the basic human traits of greed, envy, and being
gullible. The characters are willing to please and unwittingly easy to
sway. If Anansi has been around for awhile one would think they would
know how he was by now.
A jungle setting is a perfect place for this story, as myth and magic
seem to surround the Africa culture. Although Kimmel never comes out and
says the setting, further reading shows where he got the story from.
Most children will see a jungle or forest setting as exotic and it will
have a place in their imagination of where the story takes place.
Always ending happily is usually a them of traditional literature, but
this story ends with mischief. Anansi is thwarted in his trickster plans
this time, however "he's still playing tricks to this very days". This
could be confusing to readers who are looking for a strong sense of
justice in the ending. Anansi does not learn his lesson, he just tries
to think up other ways to play tricks.
The style of the writing in this picture book lends itself to being
read out loud. The repetition of KPOM! when an animal says the magic
words is great for young readers following along. They come to know that
when the magic words are said, an animal will fall down. The magic motif
is strong through out the book and it is reflected in the telling. One
could argue that talking animals are magic also.
The illustrations in this picture tell a story that are strengthend by
the words. The pictures complement the story and do not lead ahead, what
is written is what you see. The characters are realistic and one can
almost read the expressions on their faces as they come and go from
their homes. On the first read through the story is focused on the
spider and his, how shall we say, victims. It is not until my second
read through that I realized the Little Bush Dear was hiding on every
page. What fun it was to then locate him on every page. This is great
for young readers who take in everything visually in a written picture
book. A story combined with a game gives the reader 2 activites in one.
Eric A. Kimmel has written many other Anansi stories that readers would
enjoy, some of those include: Anansi and the Talking Melon, Anansi and
the Talking Stick, Anansi Goes Fishing, and Anansi and the Pot of Beans.
Reviews of his books glow on aspects from the illustrations to his
writing.
"The text is rhythmic, nicely building suspense to the inevitable
conclusion," and "Anansi is portrayed as a large eight-legged arachnid;
his expression is in his motion. The other animals are almost realistic,
although with facial expressions that are characteristic of the artist's
work." Maria B. Salvadore, District of Columbia Public Library
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Overall, I found this a very fulfilling trickster tale. It had all the
elements of a good story mixed in with a little suspense, giggles, and a
suitable ending for Anansi. I did not walk away disappointed however,
the moral of the story is slightly lost in the fact the Anansi is still
up to his old tricks. Parents might want to make sure that their
children understand that there are repercussions to their actions. Just
because you get away with something once, does not mean you should keep
doing it.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs! by Jon Scieszka
The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs!
Jon Scieszka
Scieszka, Jon. Illustrator Lane Smith. 1989. The true story of the 3 little pigs! New York: Viking Penguin.
Huff, puff, and blow the house down. Most people can give the general premise of the story of the 3 little pigs: 3 pigs, houses of straw, sticks, and bricks, wolf blows down straw and sticks, bricks stay up, wolf goes down chimney, third pigs eats wolf soup for supper. Jon Scieszka decided to tell the wolf’s side in this very creative folk beast tale, The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs.
The premise of this fractured fairy tells the story of the 3 little pigs from the perspective of the wolf, the big bad wolf. The plot is simple and familiar. By reading a story told from the side of the typical bad character, the reader is forced to rethink everything they think they knew about the story. Faced with the realization that every story has two sides the reader can find themselves rooting for a “new” character.
The traditional theme of the folktale is good versus bad. The theme in this tale is almost the opposite, the pigs, who are the traditional good characters are found out to be bad and vice versa for the wolf. Scieszka chooses to tell the tale in first person through the eyes of the wolf, almost autobiographical. He uses thoughts and opinions that only the wolf would know. By choosing this type of style the reader is privy to information that otherwise would be unknown.
The illustrations of this picture book are reminiscent of old newspaper type. Done in sepias and browns the illustrations lead the reader’s eyes to the character versus what is going on around them. The focus is always on the wolf and all other characters are background, never to be seen. The tale is truly the wolf’s as told through the illustrations. If the words were never written and the illustrations told the story, it would be very easy to infer the storyline and what implications they have.
Publishers Weekly, 03/04/1996
"Designed with uncommon flair," said PW, this "gaily newfangled version of the classic tale" takes sides with the villain. "Imaginative watercolors eschew realism, further updating the tale." This review from the database, Book Index with Reviews, speaks to the creative ingenuity that Scieszka takes with his version (told to him by Alexander T. Wolf) of the story of the 3 little pigs.
One of the reasons this book is a must read for children is that it has a hidden moral. There are always two sides to a story, and to understand something it should be looked at from both sides. A good lesson for children and adults alike.
Jon Scieszka
Scieszka, Jon. Illustrator Lane Smith. 1989. The true story of the 3 little pigs! New York: Viking Penguin.
Huff, puff, and blow the house down. Most people can give the general premise of the story of the 3 little pigs: 3 pigs, houses of straw, sticks, and bricks, wolf blows down straw and sticks, bricks stay up, wolf goes down chimney, third pigs eats wolf soup for supper. Jon Scieszka decided to tell the wolf’s side in this very creative folk beast tale, The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs.
The premise of this fractured fairy tells the story of the 3 little pigs from the perspective of the wolf, the big bad wolf. The plot is simple and familiar. By reading a story told from the side of the typical bad character, the reader is forced to rethink everything they think they knew about the story. Faced with the realization that every story has two sides the reader can find themselves rooting for a “new” character.
The traditional theme of the folktale is good versus bad. The theme in this tale is almost the opposite, the pigs, who are the traditional good characters are found out to be bad and vice versa for the wolf. Scieszka chooses to tell the tale in first person through the eyes of the wolf, almost autobiographical. He uses thoughts and opinions that only the wolf would know. By choosing this type of style the reader is privy to information that otherwise would be unknown.
The illustrations of this picture book are reminiscent of old newspaper type. Done in sepias and browns the illustrations lead the reader’s eyes to the character versus what is going on around them. The focus is always on the wolf and all other characters are background, never to be seen. The tale is truly the wolf’s as told through the illustrations. If the words were never written and the illustrations told the story, it would be very easy to infer the storyline and what implications they have.
Publishers Weekly, 03/04/1996
"Designed with uncommon flair," said PW, this "gaily newfangled version of the classic tale" takes sides with the villain. "Imaginative watercolors eschew realism, further updating the tale." This review from the database, Book Index with Reviews, speaks to the creative ingenuity that Scieszka takes with his version (told to him by Alexander T. Wolf) of the story of the 3 little pigs.
One of the reasons this book is a must read for children is that it has a hidden moral. There are always two sides to a story, and to understand something it should be looked at from both sides. A good lesson for children and adults alike.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Swamp Angel by Anne Issacs
Swamp Angel
Anne Isaacs
Isaacs, Anne. Illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky. 1994. Swamp Angel. New York: Dutton Children’s Books.
Girl versus Bear, who would win? Swamp Angel would! The tall tale Swamp Angel tells the story of Angelica Longrider, a girl born in 1815 to a seemingly normal life, but as the story goes on the reader sees that she is anything but. With extra height, strength and brains, Angelica uses those traits to save pioneers stuck in mud and to bring down the supersized bear known as Thundering Tarnation. Using her superhuman traits she manages to kill the bear and save the townspeople’s winter food stores, thereby living up to the “angel” in Swamp Angel.
This traditional tale is chalk full of action, from the first page Swamp Angel is always doing something. Her journey to save the town from Thundering Tarnation is the main plot of the book, but her personal growth is also apparent in the text. Set in the distant past the story allows the reader to believe in Swamp Angel’s abilities without questions. The reader understands that she is very real in her setting, lending to the belief that she is real. Like a female Paul Bunyan, Swamp Angel exists in current folklore as a possible reality.
This story not only embraces good vs. evil, but also woman vs. beast. These are the two overarching themes that entertwine throughout the tale. The character is very moral, and ethical and while it is her goal to kill the bear, she is saved from that by a tree falling on him, therefore saving her from doing the dirty work herself.
The style of writing for this tall tale is full of similes, metaphors, and other linguistic tricks to make the reader laugh out land. For example, referring to the bear as a “four legged forest of stubble” and “lowdown pile of pelts” give the read images in their mind that make the bear that much more visible in the mind’s eye. Creative writing help to capture what makes this a tall tale.
The illustrations for this book focus on the fact that the characters are larger than life. Swamp Angel and Thundering Tarnation are always drawn large on the page and are always out of proportion compared to the townspeople. This helps the reader to understand just how big these characters are and how they should be perceived. Drawn sometimes comically, the illustrations also show how Swamp Angel is relaxed and completely in tune with her surroundings.
This review through amazon.com shows how the story is important to the age group it is designed for. "But the larger-than-life girl's reputation grows to truly gargantuan proportions when she bests an even larger bear, throwing him up in the sky, where "he crashed into a pile of stars, making a lasting impression. You can still see him there, any clear night." This valiant heroine is certain to leave youngsters chuckling-and perhaps even keeping a close watch on the night sky." Ages 5-9.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
One of the things I like best about this tall tale is that it explains how Ursa became a constellation. When Swamp Angel throws Thundering Tarnation into the sky and forms the constellation from that throw the story has the element of a pour quoi tale. This story is perfect for the strong female child who wants to prove that she can be one of the boys.
Anne Isaacs
Isaacs, Anne. Illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky. 1994. Swamp Angel. New York: Dutton Children’s Books.
Girl versus Bear, who would win? Swamp Angel would! The tall tale Swamp Angel tells the story of Angelica Longrider, a girl born in 1815 to a seemingly normal life, but as the story goes on the reader sees that she is anything but. With extra height, strength and brains, Angelica uses those traits to save pioneers stuck in mud and to bring down the supersized bear known as Thundering Tarnation. Using her superhuman traits she manages to kill the bear and save the townspeople’s winter food stores, thereby living up to the “angel” in Swamp Angel.
This traditional tale is chalk full of action, from the first page Swamp Angel is always doing something. Her journey to save the town from Thundering Tarnation is the main plot of the book, but her personal growth is also apparent in the text. Set in the distant past the story allows the reader to believe in Swamp Angel’s abilities without questions. The reader understands that she is very real in her setting, lending to the belief that she is real. Like a female Paul Bunyan, Swamp Angel exists in current folklore as a possible reality.
This story not only embraces good vs. evil, but also woman vs. beast. These are the two overarching themes that entertwine throughout the tale. The character is very moral, and ethical and while it is her goal to kill the bear, she is saved from that by a tree falling on him, therefore saving her from doing the dirty work herself.
The style of writing for this tall tale is full of similes, metaphors, and other linguistic tricks to make the reader laugh out land. For example, referring to the bear as a “four legged forest of stubble” and “lowdown pile of pelts” give the read images in their mind that make the bear that much more visible in the mind’s eye. Creative writing help to capture what makes this a tall tale.
The illustrations for this book focus on the fact that the characters are larger than life. Swamp Angel and Thundering Tarnation are always drawn large on the page and are always out of proportion compared to the townspeople. This helps the reader to understand just how big these characters are and how they should be perceived. Drawn sometimes comically, the illustrations also show how Swamp Angel is relaxed and completely in tune with her surroundings.
This review through amazon.com shows how the story is important to the age group it is designed for. "But the larger-than-life girl's reputation grows to truly gargantuan proportions when she bests an even larger bear, throwing him up in the sky, where "he crashed into a pile of stars, making a lasting impression. You can still see him there, any clear night." This valiant heroine is certain to leave youngsters chuckling-and perhaps even keeping a close watch on the night sky." Ages 5-9.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
One of the things I like best about this tall tale is that it explains how Ursa became a constellation. When Swamp Angel throws Thundering Tarnation into the sky and forms the constellation from that throw the story has the element of a pour quoi tale. This story is perfect for the strong female child who wants to prove that she can be one of the boys.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Millions of Cats by Wanda Ga'g
Millions of Cats
Wanda Ga`g
Ga`g, Wanda. 1928. Millions of Cats. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons. ISBN: 0399233156
Newbery Honor Book, Millions of Cats tells the story of a lonely old couple who wish for a cat to keep them company. The old man, wanting to please the old woman, goes out in search of cat to share their home. On his journey he sees cats up into the trillions and decides that he will choose the prettiest to take home, except, they are all pretty and he cannot bear to part with any of them. So, he brings all the cats home where they start to fight over who is prettiest and eventually they all disappear, except for one little kitten who did not think she was pretty so she survived. The story ends with this kitten being the perfect pet for the old couple to share their home with.
This book has many themes running throughout it, most that might be over the head of children reading this picture book. Themes such as greed and envy give a very adult bent to an otherwise children’s story. These deeper meanings are subtle and a moral could be portrayed in simpler terms for a child to learn from.
One of the greatest things about this picture book is the use of the rhyme, “hundreds of cats, thousands of cats, millions and billions, and trillions of cats” (Ga`g). This can easily involve the child as this line is repeated throughout the book, and is easy enough to remember that the child could believe they are reading.
This picture book does have other strengths and weaknesses though. The characters are one of its biggest strengths. An elderly couple that live alone and want a pet are easy to relate to. They have a unique way of relating to each other and their pet. Devotion for one another is the easiest characteristic to pinpoint between them. Children will also be able to relate to the wish to have a pet. This might help those that are contemplating getting a cat. Some of the weaknesses come in the treatment of the cats. The tale takes a slightly morbid turn when the cats attack and kill and supposedly eat each other. This imagery might scare some children and change the way they view the book. Review for the book have been positive for the 83 years that it has been in print. Touted as the “first” picture book it has staying power as a classic, regardless of the audience.
"This Newbery Honor winner is distinguished by innovative design and a strong storyteller's cadence." (School Library Journal's "One Hundred Books that Shaped the Century").
Since this book deals with multiples of things and the problems that ensue from those multiples, readers also might enjoy: Caps for Sale: A Tale of a Peddler, Some Monkeys and Their Monkey Business by Esphyr Slobodkina.
One great idea that has come from this book is Cat Herding Day (courtesy http://childrensbookalmanac.com/2010/12/millions-of-cats/.) Celebrated on December 15, this would be a great classroom activity when reading this great picture book.
Wanda Ga`g
Ga`g, Wanda. 1928. Millions of Cats. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons. ISBN: 0399233156
Newbery Honor Book, Millions of Cats tells the story of a lonely old couple who wish for a cat to keep them company. The old man, wanting to please the old woman, goes out in search of cat to share their home. On his journey he sees cats up into the trillions and decides that he will choose the prettiest to take home, except, they are all pretty and he cannot bear to part with any of them. So, he brings all the cats home where they start to fight over who is prettiest and eventually they all disappear, except for one little kitten who did not think she was pretty so she survived. The story ends with this kitten being the perfect pet for the old couple to share their home with.
This book has many themes running throughout it, most that might be over the head of children reading this picture book. Themes such as greed and envy give a very adult bent to an otherwise children’s story. These deeper meanings are subtle and a moral could be portrayed in simpler terms for a child to learn from.
One of the greatest things about this picture book is the use of the rhyme, “hundreds of cats, thousands of cats, millions and billions, and trillions of cats” (Ga`g). This can easily involve the child as this line is repeated throughout the book, and is easy enough to remember that the child could believe they are reading.
This picture book does have other strengths and weaknesses though. The characters are one of its biggest strengths. An elderly couple that live alone and want a pet are easy to relate to. They have a unique way of relating to each other and their pet. Devotion for one another is the easiest characteristic to pinpoint between them. Children will also be able to relate to the wish to have a pet. This might help those that are contemplating getting a cat. Some of the weaknesses come in the treatment of the cats. The tale takes a slightly morbid turn when the cats attack and kill and supposedly eat each other. This imagery might scare some children and change the way they view the book. Review for the book have been positive for the 83 years that it has been in print. Touted as the “first” picture book it has staying power as a classic, regardless of the audience.
"This Newbery Honor winner is distinguished by innovative design and a strong storyteller's cadence." (School Library Journal's "One Hundred Books that Shaped the Century").
Since this book deals with multiples of things and the problems that ensue from those multiples, readers also might enjoy: Caps for Sale: A Tale of a Peddler, Some Monkeys and Their Monkey Business by Esphyr Slobodkina.
One great idea that has come from this book is Cat Herding Day (courtesy http://childrensbookalmanac.com/2010/12/millions-of-cats/.) Celebrated on December 15, this would be a great classroom activity when reading this great picture book.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead
A Sick Day for Amos McGee
Philip C. Stead
Stead, Philip C., Illustrator Erin E. Stead. 2010. A Sick Day for Amos McGee. New York: Roaring Book Press. ISBN: 9781596434028.
What if animals could talk? Well, in A Sick Day for Amos McGee a Caldecott winner by Philip Stead, we find out what they would say if they could. Amos McGee is an elderly zookeeper who always makes time to visit his animal friends before he starts work. His dependability is taken for granted and when Amos takes ill his animal friends become concerned and leave the zoo to pay him a get well visit. The animals spend the day with him doing a version of their favorite activities and all end up spending the night in Amos’ house.
The main character Amos McGee is a likeable and affable old zookeeper. The illustrations paint him as the quintessential grandfather type. A type of character that adults and children can understand and believe. He could almost be described as a Mr. Rogers like character, easy going and even tempered. The other characters in this picture book are the zoo animals: the elephant, rhino, owl, penguin, and tortoise. Anthropomorphizing the animals make them seem more real and gives them a sense of personality exhibiting the human emotions of sadness, happiness, and critical thinking.
The theme of this picture book is very subtle. It conveys sympathy and acts of selflessness from all the characters. It is meaningful as it conveys a sense of peacefulness for everyone involved. How the characters behave inwardly and outwardly is a good way for children to see how they should treat others. The theme is also very noticeable through the illustrations.
The illustrations are very detail oriented especially in the facial areas of the characters. One can see emotions plainly on both Amos’ and the animals faces. One could almost read the book without the words and tell the story themselves. Using very subtle colors and a technique called woodblock printing, the illustrations are not what one expects to see in a modern picture book, but this is the charm of this book. Simplicity is sometimes better to understand when reading a story. Using white as a background for the illustrations there is no interference to take the reader away from the story being told.
The strengths in this picture lie in the anthropomorphism of the animals. Children like animals and even better if they don’t act like animals. Giving each animal a very human characteristic makes them more believable to the reader. The weaknesses lie in the pace of the story. As an adult I felt kind of lost, waiting for something to happen. The story is meant to be slow and I feel a child might get bored with the waiting.
Being an award winning picture book the online reviews are glowing:
• The artwork in this quiet tale of good deeds rewarded uses woodblock-printing techniques, soft flat colors, and occasional bits of red. Illustrations are positioned on the white space to move the tale along and underscore the bonds of friendship and loyalty. Whether read individually or shared, this gentle story will resonate with youngsters. —Mary Jean Smith, Southside Elementary School, Lebanon, TN (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC.
A good way to tell this story for story time or bedtime would be with animal puppets. Either with a partner or volunteers, bringing the story alive to an audience would enhance it that much more. An already powerful story will resonate long after the story is done with the puppets making a debut for every reading of this beautiful picture book.
Philip C. Stead
Stead, Philip C., Illustrator Erin E. Stead. 2010. A Sick Day for Amos McGee. New York: Roaring Book Press. ISBN: 9781596434028.
What if animals could talk? Well, in A Sick Day for Amos McGee a Caldecott winner by Philip Stead, we find out what they would say if they could. Amos McGee is an elderly zookeeper who always makes time to visit his animal friends before he starts work. His dependability is taken for granted and when Amos takes ill his animal friends become concerned and leave the zoo to pay him a get well visit. The animals spend the day with him doing a version of their favorite activities and all end up spending the night in Amos’ house.
The main character Amos McGee is a likeable and affable old zookeeper. The illustrations paint him as the quintessential grandfather type. A type of character that adults and children can understand and believe. He could almost be described as a Mr. Rogers like character, easy going and even tempered. The other characters in this picture book are the zoo animals: the elephant, rhino, owl, penguin, and tortoise. Anthropomorphizing the animals make them seem more real and gives them a sense of personality exhibiting the human emotions of sadness, happiness, and critical thinking.
The theme of this picture book is very subtle. It conveys sympathy and acts of selflessness from all the characters. It is meaningful as it conveys a sense of peacefulness for everyone involved. How the characters behave inwardly and outwardly is a good way for children to see how they should treat others. The theme is also very noticeable through the illustrations.
The illustrations are very detail oriented especially in the facial areas of the characters. One can see emotions plainly on both Amos’ and the animals faces. One could almost read the book without the words and tell the story themselves. Using very subtle colors and a technique called woodblock printing, the illustrations are not what one expects to see in a modern picture book, but this is the charm of this book. Simplicity is sometimes better to understand when reading a story. Using white as a background for the illustrations there is no interference to take the reader away from the story being told.
The strengths in this picture lie in the anthropomorphism of the animals. Children like animals and even better if they don’t act like animals. Giving each animal a very human characteristic makes them more believable to the reader. The weaknesses lie in the pace of the story. As an adult I felt kind of lost, waiting for something to happen. The story is meant to be slow and I feel a child might get bored with the waiting.
Being an award winning picture book the online reviews are glowing:
• The artwork in this quiet tale of good deeds rewarded uses woodblock-printing techniques, soft flat colors, and occasional bits of red. Illustrations are positioned on the white space to move the tale along and underscore the bonds of friendship and loyalty. Whether read individually or shared, this gentle story will resonate with youngsters. —Mary Jean Smith, Southside Elementary School, Lebanon, TN (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC.
A good way to tell this story for story time or bedtime would be with animal puppets. Either with a partner or volunteers, bringing the story alive to an audience would enhance it that much more. An already powerful story will resonate long after the story is done with the puppets making a debut for every reading of this beautiful picture book.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Knuffle Bunny by Mo Willems
Knuffle Bunny
Mo Willems
Willems, Mo. 2004. Knuffle Bunny. New York: Hyperion Books. ISBN: 0786818700.
For any person who has ever loved and lost a best friend this book will tug at the heartstrings. Perfect for children and adults alike this picture book tells the story of Trixie and her stuffed animal Knuffle Bunny. On a trip to the Laundromat with her father, Trixie loses Knuffle Bunny. Trixie is unable to communicate her frustration at losing Knuffle Bunny, which leads Trixie’s father to misunderstand her outburst. When Trixie’s mother and father realize the loss, the race is on to get back to the Laundromat to reunite the two. A happy ending and Trixie speaking her first words, “Knuffle Bunny” create a perfect ending filled with love and family unity.
The theme of this picture book centers around security. Often children (and sometimes adults) will have an emotional attachment to a stuffed animal or toy that gives them a sense of security. Losing that security can be traumatic made even more so if you cannot communicate your distress. In Trixie’s case she was too young to have established a vocabulary to coherently make her needs clear. It is only with the mother’s help that the loss of Knuffle Bunny is rectified. Children will be able to sense the urgency by the different styles and fonts of type in the picture book. Using different types of fonts will also assist if read out loud, where the reader will sense the change in tone and (hopefully) inflect appropriately.
The illustrations are also a very heavy indicator where the action is centered in this book. Using two types of artistic mediums to illustrate this book leads to the characters being the focus of the novel. Photographs done in sepia with large color pictures drawn into them draw the reader’s eyes to the characters and focus on them as the center of the book. This type of illustration is great for children as it is not too busy and the action is noticeable. It is good that one does not have to hunt for what they are being shown, it is obvious and the facial expressions of the characters tell the whole story.
Overall, this “cautionary tale” by Caldecott Honoree Mo Willems touches on very real experiences that a child can relate to and understand. As the old saying goes, it is better to have loved and lost, then never to have loved at all.
These reviews from Book Index with Reviews speak to the powerful narrative and creativity that Willems puts into his work:
•Publishers Weekly, 08/16/2004
“Any child who has ever had a favorite toy will identify with the toddler star of this tale. The plot is simple: Trixie loses bunny, finds bunny and then exuberantly says her first words—"Knuffle Bunny!!!" The fun comes from the details. In an innovative style that employs dappled black-and-white photographs of Brooklyn as backdrop to wickedly funny color cartoons, Willems (Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! ) creates an entertaining story for parents and children alike.”
•Kirkus Reviews, 08/01/2004
“Willems is a master of body language; Trixie's despair and her daddy's frazzlement as expressive as her joy ("KNUFFLE BUNNY!") and his triumph at the excavation of the errant bunny from the washing machine. The natural audience for this offering is a little older than its main character: they will easily identify with Trixie's grief and at the same time feel superior to her hapless parent—and rejoice wholeheartedly at the happy reunion.”
Personally, I think this book is a great example of a fun bed time story. It has all the literary requirements for a good book: action, emotion, resolution, and a happy ending. What more could one ask for before bed every night.
Mo Willems
Willems, Mo. 2004. Knuffle Bunny. New York: Hyperion Books. ISBN: 0786818700.
For any person who has ever loved and lost a best friend this book will tug at the heartstrings. Perfect for children and adults alike this picture book tells the story of Trixie and her stuffed animal Knuffle Bunny. On a trip to the Laundromat with her father, Trixie loses Knuffle Bunny. Trixie is unable to communicate her frustration at losing Knuffle Bunny, which leads Trixie’s father to misunderstand her outburst. When Trixie’s mother and father realize the loss, the race is on to get back to the Laundromat to reunite the two. A happy ending and Trixie speaking her first words, “Knuffle Bunny” create a perfect ending filled with love and family unity.
The theme of this picture book centers around security. Often children (and sometimes adults) will have an emotional attachment to a stuffed animal or toy that gives them a sense of security. Losing that security can be traumatic made even more so if you cannot communicate your distress. In Trixie’s case she was too young to have established a vocabulary to coherently make her needs clear. It is only with the mother’s help that the loss of Knuffle Bunny is rectified. Children will be able to sense the urgency by the different styles and fonts of type in the picture book. Using different types of fonts will also assist if read out loud, where the reader will sense the change in tone and (hopefully) inflect appropriately.
The illustrations are also a very heavy indicator where the action is centered in this book. Using two types of artistic mediums to illustrate this book leads to the characters being the focus of the novel. Photographs done in sepia with large color pictures drawn into them draw the reader’s eyes to the characters and focus on them as the center of the book. This type of illustration is great for children as it is not too busy and the action is noticeable. It is good that one does not have to hunt for what they are being shown, it is obvious and the facial expressions of the characters tell the whole story.
Overall, this “cautionary tale” by Caldecott Honoree Mo Willems touches on very real experiences that a child can relate to and understand. As the old saying goes, it is better to have loved and lost, then never to have loved at all.
These reviews from Book Index with Reviews speak to the powerful narrative and creativity that Willems puts into his work:
•Publishers Weekly, 08/16/2004
“Any child who has ever had a favorite toy will identify with the toddler star of this tale. The plot is simple: Trixie loses bunny, finds bunny and then exuberantly says her first words—"Knuffle Bunny!!!" The fun comes from the details. In an innovative style that employs dappled black-and-white photographs of Brooklyn as backdrop to wickedly funny color cartoons, Willems (Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! ) creates an entertaining story for parents and children alike.”
•Kirkus Reviews, 08/01/2004
“Willems is a master of body language; Trixie's despair and her daddy's frazzlement as expressive as her joy ("KNUFFLE BUNNY!") and his triumph at the excavation of the errant bunny from the washing machine. The natural audience for this offering is a little older than its main character: they will easily identify with Trixie's grief and at the same time feel superior to her hapless parent—and rejoice wholeheartedly at the happy reunion.”
Personally, I think this book is a great example of a fun bed time story. It has all the literary requirements for a good book: action, emotion, resolution, and a happy ending. What more could one ask for before bed every night.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Why I'm here
This blog will serve two purposes. The first will be to provide reviews about children's book for my Literature for Children and Young Adults class, second is the hope that someone out there will read the reviews and find a new book for themselves or a child in their life.
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