Module Five: Picture Books for Older Readers - 3rd Grade +

Schaefer, Lola M. 2004. ARROWHAWK. Ill. by Gabi Swiatkowska. New York: Henry Holt and Company.

*Plot Summary

A hawk is hit by an arrow and suffers other injuries before receiving the aid and eventually returning successfully to the wild.

*Impressions

This story revolves around the injury, survival, and recovery of Arrowhawk, a hawk hit by an arrow. The animal is revealed to us through narration and description for its actions. For examples, readers can conclude Arrowhawk is strong and determined as the text states, “Ignoring his pain, he cleaned his wounds…” The illustrations give readers a deeper understanding of Arrowhawk’s character, showing the bird before, during, and after getting hit by the arrow. The plot moves along through narration and illustrations which portray details about Arrowhawk’s ordeal. Since Arrowhawk is hit early in the story, the problem becomes his survival. The resolution of the story is hopeful. The natural setting of the book is portrayed in the illustrations. Swiatkowska also uses light and dark to create mood and variety and to move the plot along.

The style of the book involves descriptions without the benefit of dialogue. Schaefer’s word choice makes the description interesting and helps the story flow. Full page illustrations in subdued colors do not distract from the text. These realistic paintings add details and help explain longer narration as well as adding understanding of Arrowhawk’s feelings and pain. Finally, the themes of the book are survival and respect/awareness for living creatures.

To conclude, I enjoyed reading this book and was amazed by the story. Science teachers might enjoy sharing this book as well.

*Review Excerpts

"Gorgeous paintings fill the pages, lending mood, light, and information while avoiding depictions of gory wounds or prey. An afterword includes a photograph of the red-tailed that inspired the book; describes his capture, treatment, and release; and discusses hawks and other raptors and how they are faring in their attempts to cohabitate with humans. Unusual in its narration from the wild animal's point of view, this is an important and dramatic tale that should be widely shared with children."
School Library Journal

(Image from us.macmillan.com)