Module Fifteen: Most Popular Authors - Andrew Clements

Clements, Andrew. 2002. A WEEK IN THE WOODS. New York: Simon and Schuster Books for Younger Readers.

*Plot Summary

New student Mark survives a week in the woods with his teachers and classmates and proves to himself and others that he can be happy in his new home.

*Impressions

Mark is a believable and dynamic character who makes mistakes and learns from them. Although wealthy and intelligent, the feelings he experiences (frustration, insecurity) and situations he faces (moving, protecting a friend) are easily relatable for young readers. As a character, Mark is revealed through his interactions with other characters, in particular the adults in the novel. In the adult characters, readers will find well-rounded, flawed people; for example, Mr. Maxwell, Mark’s teacher, is well-intentioned but makes his share of mistakes as the plot unfolds. The plot itself contains some suspense, like the ending of chapter one where readers begin to wonder what will eventually go wrong in the woods. The story includes an exciting climax and resolution with a bit of a surprise. Furthermore, the ending of the book is positive but believable (no “happily ever after”). The conflict between Mark and his teacher definitely moves the plot along as well.

The setting of the book is quite important since it changes when Mark and his family move and he learns to adapt to a place. The wilderness setting of the “week in the woods” is also crucial because the climax and resolution occur there. Additionally, Mark’s appreciation for his new surroundings seems to coincide with his adjustment to his new school and his willingness to fit in. The style of the book is straight-forward with a great deal of narration; some chapters contain an abundance of detail. The dialogue between characters is believable. A third-person narrator tells the story, but from chapter to chapter, readers are able to find out the perspectives of Mark and Mr. Maxwell. This style definitely adds to the sense of conflict and the plot. Although the book has a more serious tone than a humorous one, the story isn’t overly emotional or negative.

Overall, I highly recommend this book to older elementary readers. Boys who enjoy the outdoors might especially enjoy the story; however, girls and boys will find elements of the story to relate to.

*Review Excerpts

"The novel includes a helpful map of the state park. Like many of Clements's titles, this one will be a popular choice, particularly with fans of Gary Paulsen and Jean Craighead George."
School Library Journal

"Clements' compassionate character studies are realistic and hopeful, and the characters' subtle conflicts and eventual transformations will linger with readers long after the book is finished."
BookList

(Image from www.simonandschuster.net)

Module Fourteen: Most Popular Authors - Dan Gutman

Gutman, Dan. 2006. THE HOMEWORK MACHINE. New York: Simon and Schuster Books for Younger Readers.

*Plot Summary

Four students unexpectedly become partners in crime and eventually even friends as they protect the secret of the homework machine.

*Impressions

The four fifth grade protagonists represent variety in family background, social status, and talent. Likewise, the characters take turns narrating the story, so a variety of viewpoints are represented in the book. With four people telling the story (two girls and two boys), most readers are likely to relate to the story. The characters are revealed through their versions of events and their interactions with one another, as well as their interactions with adults like teacher Miss Rasmussen and Police Chief Fish. The plot unfolds logically but must be pieced together using the narration of each character. The plot is made even more interesting because it involves a secret, relationships, and some elements of mystery. The resolution is both positive and plausible.

The setting is a modern day school near the Grand Canyon; its geographic location is an important part of the storyline. Because the story takes place in a school, many young readers will relate to the setting. The novel has a conversational tone with each character representing a unique voice and perspective. Just as the narration is varied so is the style including humorous, mysterious, and serious situations. The themes of the novel include friendship, cheating versus honesty, use of technology, death, and social status.

Overall, this novel is a great read. It is ideal for discussions about characters and point of view. With four diverse protagonists and several themes, I think many different upper elementary students would find the book satisfying.

*Review Excerpts

"The story is told entirely through short excerpts from police interviews. This device shows the developing relationships through the kids' own observations. There are touches of humor in the way the four classmates talk about themselves and one another. Ominous hints about the legal trouble maintain tension throughout the story, but its exact nature isn't revealed until near the end. A dramatic and thought-provoking story with a strong message about honesty and friendship."
School Library Journal

"This fast-paced, entertaining book has something for everyone: convincing characters deftly portrayed through their own words; points of discussion on ethics and student computer use; and every child's dream machine. Booktalkers will find this a natural, particularly for those hard-to-tempt readers whose preferred method of computer disposal involves a catapult and the Grand Canyon."
BookList *Starred Review

(Image from sequoiatimes.wordpress.com)

Module Thirteen: Most Popular Authors - Peg Kehret

Kehret, Peg. 2002. THE STRANGER NEXT DOOR. New York: Puffin Books.

*Plot Summary

Alex hopes to befriend his new neighbor Rocky as they deal with mysterious crimes occurring in their neighborhood.

*Impressions

The characters portrayed in the novel are both believable and likeable. Kehret reveals the characters using narration and lots of dialogue. In particular, protagonist Alex is revealed by his interactions with other characters, including his parents, his brother, bullies at school, and his new neighbor Rocky. Driving the plot is a great deal suspense and mystery. Events unfold in a way that keeps readers interested and wanting to know more. The climax of the story is exciting and the outcome is positive and realistic. A modern day school and a new housing development are the settings of the novel. The location of the housing development is an important part of the plot.

Kehret’s style is fast-paced, mysterious, and suspenseful. Realistic dialogue is used throughout the book. Furthermore, the novel begins with a prologue where the author introduces Pete the Cat as the other writer of the book. The addition of Pete the Cat as a writer and character adds some humor and a new perspective to the story. Finally, themes in the story include moving, bullying, deception, and environmental issues.

Overall, I found this book to be a great mystery with likeable characters. Since the protagonist is a boy, this is one that older elementary boys might especially enjoy.

*Review Excerpts

"A quick, exciting read to entice reluctant readers."
School Library Journal

"Kehret packs a lot of action and tension in this easy-to-handle mystery, leavening it nicely with Pete's entertaining swaggering and sleuthing."
BookList

(Image from www.powells.com)

Module Twelve: Graphic Novels for Younger Readers

Holm, Jennifer L. and Matthew Holm. 2006. BABYMOUSE: ROCK STAR. New York: Random House.

*Plot Summary


Although Babymouse imagines herself as a famous musician, in reality she is working on mastering the flute in the school band.

*Impressions


The main character of Babymouse is imaginative and ambitious but also totally likeable. Her imperfections make her interesting. Babymouse is revealed to readers through her dialogue and her desires as depicted in her wild daydreams of stardom. Felicia is an antagonist who puts Babymouse to the test. Dialogue and illustrations move the plot. The plot is made more interesting by Babymouse’s wild imagination and funny asides conveyed by illustrations and captions. The settings consist of school, home, and various exciting locations Babymouse imagines. The black and pink illustrations also establish the setting and definitely add to the plot by showing contrast between reality and dreams.



The style of the graphic novel is light-hearted and humorous. Likewise, the drawings are simple and add to the humor and overall feeling conveyed by the story. Readers will have fun re-reading the graphic novel and finding details they may have missed the first time through. Finally, themes include competition, dreams, and working toward a goal.



Overall, this graphic novel is a fun read for middle to upper elementary students. Due to the abundance of pink and a female protagonist, it will appeal mostly to girls. However, the novel would also be good material for discussing detail and for making inferences.

*Review Excerpts

"Babymouse is spunky, ambitious, and, at times, a total dweeb. ..The illustrations, both pink-toned and black and white, are clever and uncluttered, making them easy to follow for a young audience. They do a fine job of showing the emotions of the endearing young mouse and her friends."
School Library Journal


(Image from www.lookingglassreview.com)

Module Eleven: Series Books

DiTerlizzi, Tony and Holly Black. 2001. THE SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES: THE FIELD GUIDE. New York: Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers.

*Plot Summary

The three Grace children and their mother move into an old family home and discover the home may already be occupied by fantastic creatures.

*Impressions

The Grace family children are believable, likeable, and unique. Each sibling has qualities which will help young readers relate to him or her. Similarly, the situation the family finds itself in will also be familiar to some young readers; the father and mother have split up and now Mom and children have moved. In addition to the family members, the novel also includes the mysterious playful/ evil creatures of the family home. The plot is driven by the problem of who or what is already residing in the estate when the Grace family moves in. Strange occurrences and elements of mystery move the plot quickly. Likewise, the children’s curiosity and Jared’s wish to clear his name keep the action moving. In the end, the book is only the beginning of a longer saga. The Spiderwick Estate, a large, run down home, is the setting and plays a large role in the plot. Both text (narration and dialogue) and illustrations work together to establish the setting. This creepy, mysterious house and its inhabitants definitely add to the plot.

Lots of dialogue and a fast-paced plot make this novel a quick read. A note to the readers from the author, a note to the authors from the Grace children, and a map of the Spiderwick Estate all establish the mood of a mysterious setting and add credibility to this fantasy tale. Suspense is built from the beginning and continues to the end of the book- making readers want to continue the series. Finally, the themes of the book include family, trust, and fantasy.

Overall, this book promises an entertaining series. It is an entertaining read with a mysterious plot and good characters.

*Review Excerpts

"Appealing characters, well-measured suspense and an inviting package will lure readers on to The Seeing Stone (-85937-6), due the same month. Youngsters may well find themselves glancing over their shoulders as they eagerly follow the events."
Publishers Weekly

(Image from www.fantasticfiction.co.uk)

Module Ten: Big Winners - Chapter Books

Riordan, Rick. THE LIGHTNING THIEF. 2005. New York: Scholastic Inc.

*Plot Summary

With the help of a few new friends, Percy attempts to rescue his mother, save the world, and find out his true identity.

*Impressions

Percy is an immediately likable character; readers will feel sympathy for his position in his school and for his relationship with his stepfather, Gabe. As narrator, Percy’s voice rings true and makes the story believable. The many characters in this book (whether good, evil, or undecided) possess characteristics which make them interesting. The exciting plot is logical in format and is driven by events, dialogue, and a large cast of characters. The events take place in the modern world, but are pure fantasy. The United States serves as the setting for story. Riordan does a wonderful job of blending reality and fantasy. Because this world is also new to Percy, readers have the benefit of his questions and explanations about the fantastic events and characters he meets. Percy’s descriptions make it easier for readers to visualize the action in the book.

Although the book is high fantasy, the style of the book is “down to earth” and easy to follow. Percy offers a consistent point of view which also helps readers understand the fantasy world as well. Humor is also used in the novel which is a nice addition to the action packed plot. Finally, the themes of the book include self-awareness, family, trust, and friendship.

Overall, I think this is a great book with wonderful characters. Older elementary and middle school students may get hooked on this first book and drawn into this very popular series.

*Review Excerpts

"A clever concept drives Riordan's highly charged children's book debut (the first in a series): the Greek Gods still rule, though now from a Mt. Olympus on the 600th floor of the Empire State Building, and their offspring, demigods, live among human beings."
Publishers Weekly

"Percy is an appealing, but reluctant hero, the modernized gods are hilarious, and the parallels to Harry Potter are frequent and obvious. Because Riordan is faithful to the original myths, librarians should be prepared for a rush of readers wanting the classic stories."
BookList

(Image from bookdweeb.wordpress.com)

Module Nine: Nonfiction

Bausum, Anne. 2006. FREEDOM RIDERS: JOHN LEWIS AND JIM ZWERG ON THE FRONT LINES OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT. Washington, D.C.: National Geographic.

*Summary

The lives of two men who were involved in the Civil Rights Movement is compared and described.

*Impressions

This nonfiction book gets high marks for accuracy. It is a Sibert Honor Book and includes forwards written by both men who are the subject of the book. Photographs with captions and a timeline also make the book a useful tool for teaching about the Civil Right Movement. The book includes a resource guide, research notes, bibliography and citations, an index, and photo credits. All the information is easily accessible thanks to the organization of the book.

Overall, the design of the book is attractive and easy to read. The older black and white photos are presented in a creative layout with captions following in blue text. Also, the large font size makes the nonfiction work inviting and unintimidating. Chapter titles and quotations add interest; similarly, the photographs with matching captions will help readers understand the content of the book. Although this book contains a great deal of information, Bausum successfully keeps the tone similar to that of a story which makes the it appropriate for younger readers. The contrast drawn between the lives of each man shows different ways of life in America without bogging down readers with too many details.

To conclude, I would highly recommend this book to students and teachers alike. It can be read in full or used as a reference and companion to social studies curriculum or a historical fiction work.

*Review Excerpts

"The incredible courage and determination of young people, black, white, male and female, who risked great personal danger and even death as they participated in the freedom rides during the Civil Rights Movement are the focus of this remarkable book. A definite first purchase."
School Library Journal

"In another excellent work of nonfiction, the author of the acclaimed With Courage and Cloth (2004), covers a civil rights topic less frequently addressed than Brown v. Board of Education or the 1963 March on Washington. Eschewing a general overview of the 1961 Freedom Rides for specific, personal histories of real participants in the dangerous bus integration protests, Bausum focuses on two college students from strikingly different backgrounds: Jim Zwerg, a white Wisconsin native who became involved during an exchange visit to Nashville, and John Lewis, a black seminarian and student leader of the nonviolence movement."
BookList *Starred Review

(Image from http://www.madisonpubliclibrary.org/)

Module Eight: Dogs are Popular!

Avi. 2001. THE GOOD DOG. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks.

*Plot Summary

McKinley, a dog who lives with his human family, must choose between continuing current lifestyle or leaving home to live in the wild with Lupin, a wolf.

*Impressions

McKinley is the protagonist of the story. His thoughts and actions move the plot along and make for an exciting story. Using McKinley, Avi lets us into the minds of dogs. Readers learn of the many different demeanors of the dogs in town and how they regard humans, including their owners. The plot is fast-paced and keeps readers intrigued from chapter to chapter. Simple but descriptive narration coupled with plenty of dialogue (both between humans and dogs) also adds to the effectiveness of the plot. The setting is both in town and in the nearby wilderness. This setting is essential to the plot and lends itself to McKinley’s ultimate problem and decision.

The style of the novel is straight-forward and full of action. Serious in tone, this novel portrays a story of truly difficult choices. Avi gives readers enough details to buy into the story, but keeps from giving too many. Finally, the themes of the novel include perseverance, friendship, decisions, and adventure.

Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book. I think students, especially those who love dogs and/or adventure stories, will especially enjoy reading it. Teachers or librarians might use this book as the subject of a literature circle.

*Review Excerpts

"The action moves along at a crackling pace, reaching a crescendo in a dramatic moonlight confrontation. The dog's-eye point of view allows for some creative touches, including insights into animal behavior and the vocabulary McKinley uses for various human objects ("eating sticks" for utensils; "a block of staring papers" for book; "glow box" for television), but most compelling of all is the transformation of McKinley's happy-go-lucky character into a truly majestic leader. "
Publishers Weekly

"A story with a decidedly canine point of view that will delight dog lovers."
School Library Journal

(Image from www.fantasticfiction.co.uk)

Module Seven: Picture Books in Verse and Poetry

Bateman, Teresa. 2004. APRIL FOOLISHNESS. Ill. by Nadine Bernard Westcott. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman & Company.

*Plot Summary

Grandpa tries unsuccessfully to avoid falling for an April Fool’s joke, but Grandma along with the grandchildren gets the last laugh.

*Impressions

The characters in this book consist of Grandpa, Grandma, the children, and, of course, the farm animals. The animals on the farm are important to the plot because they are the source of all of the potential problems that could occur if what the children say is true. Grandma is a spirited, fun-loving character who plays a role in the surprise offered at the end of the story. Readers will have fun identifying with the jokers and victim of the jokes played. Moving the plot along is each claim made by the children, and the illustrations add to the humor by portraying what could be happening on the farm. The plot contains a clear climax and humorous resolution. Although the plot is fun, it is also believable. The farm setting is important to the story because the problem involves the farm and animals; the farm setting also makes the story interesting.

Rhyme and rhythm define the style of the text and make the story great for reading aloud. Repeated words and phrases also add to the fun. There is also an air of drama as the children attempt to pull a fast one on their grandfather. The story also contains lots of dialogue. Adding to the light-hearted feel of the book are the humorous illustrations which show the farm animals sunbathing and listen to an iPod. The cartoonish colorful pictures also add details which support the plot and aren’t stated in the text. Finally, the themes of the story include humor, family, and holiday traditions.

To conclude, this is a fun book to share in the classroom or in the library. Students will enjoy the rhyming text and the fun of the illustrations.

*Review Excerpts

"The book's double-edged joke (Grandpa won't be fooled, and so he's more foolish) and the fact that kids love the idea of adult-sanctioned mischievousness makes this a surefire giggle-inducer."
Publishers Weekly

"Cartoon artwork closely follows the action as the disarray grows, drawing readers into Grandpa's imagination and disbelief. Bold watercolors, punctuated by ink detail, frame the animals' frolic as described in the rhyming verse. Wake up a storytime about farm life or save this one for April foolishness."
School Library Journal

(Image from www.hobbydirectory.com)

Module Six: History (Fictional Picture Books)

Hesse, Karen. 2004. THE CATS IN KRASINSKI SQUARE. Ill. by Wendy Watson. New York: Scholastic Press.

*Plot Summary

A young girl, with the help of many cats left behind by Jews in Nazi occupied Poland, distracts the Gestapo and gets food behind the wall of the Ghetto.

*Impressions

The narrator is a young girl who loves cats and cares for her friend behind the wall. The portrayal of the girl is realistic and sympathetic. The cats in the story also play an important role because they represent the families who were no longer living free in Warsaw. Although the situation in the book is a complicated one, Hesse explains the plot with simple details and basic facts. These details help readers understand the seriousness of the time in history; the problem in the story is authentic. The time and place of the story are established successfully without overwhelming readers with too much information. Similarly, the illustrations are simple but still show the city and the style of dress.

The narration of the story is almost poetic using repeated phrases and sparse dialogue. The book has lots of white space with few words on the page. Although the illustrations are simple, they are effective. Shapes, instead of details, of faces and buildings are shown. The illustrations also move the action along and add to the climax. Themes of the book include perseverance, family, and kindness.

To conclude, I really enjoyed this book. The illustrations and story are both beautiful. Teachers can incorporate this into a social studies unit or read it to introduce a historical novel.

*Review Excerpts

"Author and artist take a complex situation and make its most important aspects comprehensible to a child. Older readers will most appreciate the bravery and intelligence of this impressive heroine."
Publishers Weekly

"It's an empowering story about the bravery and impact of young people, and Hesse's clear, spare poetry, from the girl's viewpoint, refers to the hardships suffered without didacticism. In bold, black lines and washes of smoky gray and ochre, Watson's arresting images echo the pared-down language as well as the hope that shines like the glints of sunlight on Krasinski Square. An author's note references the true events and heartbreaking history that inspired this stirring, expertly crafted story."
BookList *Starred Review

(Image from lookingglassreview.com)

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)

Module Four: Folktales and Fairytales Revisited

Calmenson, Stephanie. 2001. THE FROG PRINCIPAL. Ill. by Denise Brunkus. New York: Scholastic Press.

*Plot Summary

Mr. Bundy, the dedicated principal, is accidentally turned into a frog and finds a way to continue his work before returning back to normal.

*Impressions

Calmenson’s tale is filled with likeable characters. Mr. Bundy is a caring, loyal school principal who is devoted to his adoring faculty and students. The colorful illustrations also add interest and a sense of fun to the characters. Readers can easily identify the problem, climax, and resolution of this story; Brunkus’ illustrations help accentuate the problem and solution. The setting of this updated folktale is a modern school which is essential to the plot. Readers see many different parts of the school as Mr. Bundy, the frog, goes about his business as the frog principal.

This tale is upbeat and simple; the use of onomatopoeia makes the story more interesting and enjoyable. The illustrations and plot are straightforward and portray a humorous, light problem with no evil or bad characters. Illustrations are bright and include lots of green, like Mr. Bundy’s suit on the first page. Brunkus uses watercolor to create colorful, realistic images. Finally, the theme of the story includes loyalty.

Overall, this is a fun read that would be excellent to share aloud in the classroom or library. Students will enjoy the addition of this story to a folktale/fairytale unit.

*Review Excerpts

"Calmenson's version of "The Frog Prince" takes many liberties with the original tale, adding quirky humor and delightful situations. Brunkus's watercolor and colored-pencil illustrations accentuate the hilarity of this spoof on the traditional fairy tale. Read aloud or alone, this book is sure to get its share of chuckles."
School Library Journal

(Image from www.mppl.org)

Module Three: Picture Books for the Younger Set - PreK to 2nd Grade

Willems, Mo. 2004. KNUFFLE BUNNY: A CAUTIONARY TALE BY MO WILLEMS. New York: Hyperion Books for Children.

*Plot Summary

Trixie goes on a trip to the Laundromat with her father and leaves behind her prized possession, Knuffle Bunny. Trixie along with her mommy and daddy are determined to locate the stuffed rabbit.

*Impressions

In young Trixie, Willems has a believable character; her reaction to losing Knuffle Bunny is on target. Likewise, adult readers may quickly identify with Trixie’s parents, like Dad not understanding Trixie’s message and Mom instantly noticing Knuffle Bunny is missing. The characters are revealed through simple narration, limited dialogue, and great illustrations. The facial expressions and body language of the characters is expertly portrayed in the pictures. The plot of the book revolves around the big problem – Trixie has lost Knuffle Bunny. Many children can relate to the misplacement or loss of their “lovey.” Illustrations and Trixie’s baby dialogue move the plot along, and the story comes to a happy conclusion as Knuffle Bunny is found and Trixie speaks her first word. The setting also plays a role in the story; the photographs show an urban setting. Details in the photos show that Brooklyn is the specific place, and children who may be unfamiliar with a Laundromat will appreciate the pictures.

The style of the book is simple, featuring a large font and few words on each page. The dialogue though sparse is effective to telling the story. A combination of drawn characters in color and black and white photographs is unique and adds interest. These illustrations definitely add detail and help tell the story. Readers learn more about the characters’ feelings, the loss of Knuffle Bunny, and the search thanks to the illustrations. Furthermore, Willems’ illustrations convey humor and show progression of the conflict. Finally, the themes include working together, family, and losing things we love. Although these themes are present, they do not take away from the fun, simple story.

To conclude, this is an excellent book. The photographs and text combine for a wonderful story that makes me smile everytime I read it.

*Review Excerpts

"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."
Publishers Weekly

"Even children who can already talk a blue streak will come away satisfied that their own strong emotions have been mirrored and legitimized, and readers of all ages will recognize the agonizing frustration of a little girl who knows far more than she can articulate."
BookList *Starred Review

(Image from ala.org)

Module Two: Classic Picture Books and Authors

Zolotow, Charlotte. 1969. THE HATING BOOK. Ill. by Ben Shecter. New York: HarperCollins Children’s Books.

*Plot Summary

A misunderstanding between friends leads one friend to proclaim hatred for another until she finally listens to her mother’s advice.

*Impressions

Many child readers will easily identify with the main character in this story. She is hurt by her friend’s ignoring her. The narrator claims she doesn’t care although clearly she does as she notices each way that her friend mistreats her. The plot which depicts a familiar situation – being hurt by a friend – is revealed through action, dialogue, and thoughts. Readers are quickly pulled into the middle of the conflict and find a clear and positive resolution at the conclusion of the story. The illustrations also complement the text. The setting of the story is a general location, and the illustrations show the passage of time from fall to winter.

The story is told with rhyme and repeated phrases (“Oh I hated my friend…”). The word attention-getting word “hate” is used in the title and repeatedly throughout the book. This adds to the emotion of the story and shows the narrator’s frustration with her friend. The illustrations in the book feature realistic drawings and warm toned colors which help create the mood of the story. Also the pictures help convey the tension between the two girls by portraying the protagonist’s facial expressions. Finally, the themes of the story include friendship, misunderstanding, and forgiveness. Although these themes are present, they are not overpowering to the story.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Counselors, librarians, teachers, and parents might us it to open a discussion about resolving conflict with friends.

*Review Excerpts

"When a girl's friend ignores her completely, all bad feelings get out of hand, in this gentle look at friendship."
Publishers Weekly

(Image from infibeam.com)

Module One: The Big Winners - Picture Books

Beaumont, Karen. 2005. I AIN’T GONNA PAINT NO MORE! Ill. by David Catrow. New York: Harcourt, Inc.

*Plot Summary

An unruly, creative child defies his mother and gives in to the temptation to paint and paint and paint.

*Impressions

The narrator is a spirited, defiant, and wild child. Catrow’s illustrations give readers great insight into the young boy’s escapades as he continues to paint despite his mother’s warnings. The action of the plot moves along logically as the child cannot resist painting another body part. Illustrations add to the action as the pages of the book progressively fill with paint and the narrator loses control. Readers are entertained and left to wonder where it will end. Also adding to the plot is the arrangement of the text and illustrations; readers must turn the page to see the ending of the sentence and some pictures continue from one page spread to the next. The setting of the story is the home of the mother and son. A contrast is shown between the messy painted parts of the house and the clean rooms. The painted parts feature bright colors and the clean parts feature black and white.

The story features rhyme, rhythm, and repeated sentences. Adding to the style of the book are the zany, exaggerated illustrations. The colors enhance the mood and convey the out of control feeling as the boy continues to paint his body. Also, the illustrations add detail to the story that is not told through narration, such as when the boys sees his mother. Finally, Beaumont’s humorous book communicates themes like self-control, temptation, and humor.

Overall, this is an entertaining book that is certain to have children smiling and chanting along.

*Review Excerpts

"Given the plot's premise, Catrow's humorously hyperbolic art fittingly takes center stage here, growing increasingly flamboyant and electric as the boy embellishes more and more of his anatomy—and his playful pooch becomes equally well decorated."
Publishers Weekly

"With rhymes that invite audience participation and scenes that draw the eye, this is a strong storytime choice. Based on the song 'It Ain't Gonna Rain No More,' the rhythmic text can be read or sung with equal effectiveness."
School Library Journal

(Image from bookfaircompany.com)