Boots and His Brothers: A Norwegian Tale

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Kimmel, Eric. 1992. Boots and His Brothers: A Norwegian Tale Retold. Ill. by Kimberly Bulcken Root. New York: Holiday House. ISBN 0823408868

PLOT SUMMARY

In Boots and His Brothers, three brothers, Peter, Paul, and Boots, set out on a journey to make their fortune. When they meet an old beggar woman, she tells the brothers of a kingdom “three days’ journey away,” where they can make their fortune. Peter and Paul are rude an ungrateful for the information and refuse the woman’s request for money. Boots is kind to the woman and in turn she gives him some valuable advice. Boots uses the advice to capture the fortune, while his brothers are met with grave consequences.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Boots and His Brothers maintains the integrity of early retellings, yet is in Kimmel’s unique voice. The story is lengthy, so it is best suited to older children. However, the story’s elements of suspense and magic will keep children interested until the very end. Although the book is based on a Norwegian folktale, Kimmel’s retelling does not include specific elements that are indicative of the Norwegian culture.

The global message of the story, good triumphs over evil, is obvious. The disrespectful brothers are punished for their bad behavior, while the kind and moral Boots is rewarded for his obedience. Children will be captivated by the beggar woman’s mysterious advice and the story’s magic motif.

Although Boots and His Brothers is an entertaining story, Bulcken Root’s illustrations do not complement Kimmel’s text. The illustrations are too dark and the details are obscured, so in many instances it is unclear what is being depicted. Therefore, children are not able to interpret the story simply by looking at the pictures. The overall style of the illustrations fits with the story, but the dark colors and lack of details make the images unappealing. Also, the size and layout of the illustrations interrupt the flow of the story. Full-page illustrations with more detail would make the story more compelling and appealing. Basically, the illustrations do not provide the necessary details to adequately represent the story.

The overall theme of Boots and His Brothers is that kindness is rewarded. This story shows children that it is beneficial to listen and follow directions.

MY THOUGHTS

Boots and His Brothers is an entertaining story with a positive message, but the unappealing illustrations do not make this an engaging read aloud. The illustrations detract from the story because it is hard to tell what is being depicted.

This is definitely not one of my favorite picture books. By definition, a picture book should have good pictures, which help tell the story. Boots and His Brothers suffers from poor illustrations, thus the overall appeal is affected.

REVIEW EXCERPTS

KIRKUS STARRED REVIEW, 1992: “Well crafted by all concerned, a fine addition.”

BOOKLIST REVIEW, 1994: “With a combination of plainness and magic, the story is well paced and dramatic, told in simple rhythmic prose.”

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, 1992: “It is this idiosyncratic artwork that will most engage the reader.”

AWARDS

N/A

CONNECTIONS

• Have a discussion about helping those in need. Ask children if they have ever done anything to help someone in need?
• Read other Norwegian tales and discuss their similarities. Some stories include:
• The Three Billy Goats Gruff by Paul Galdone
• Seven Fathers by Ashley Ramsolen
• Town Mouse, Country Mouse by Jan Brett
• Trouble with Trolls by Jan Brett
• Discuss the Norwegian culture and show children a map of Norwegian countries.

Swamp Angel

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Isaacs, Anne. 1994. Swamp Angel. Ill. by Paul O. Zelinsky. New York: Dutton Children’s Books. ISBN 0525452710

PLOT SUMMARY

Angelica Longrider was an unusual child from the day she was born, “the newborn was scarcely taller than her mother and couldn’t climb a tree without help.” She built her first log cabin when she was two years old and “by the time she was full grown, she was second to none in buckskin bravery.” So, begins the story of Swamp Angel, the larger than life character that helps those in need and isn’t afraid of anything. When the huge, black bear Thundering Tarnation begins to wreak havoc across Tennessee, Swamp Angel signs up for a hunting competition, sure that she will be the one to capture Tarnation’s hide. Despite the jeers of the male hunters, Swamp Angel sets out to hunt down Tarnation and claim the prize.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

In Swamp Angel, Anne Isaacs captures reader’s attention with her fantastical story of a giant, pioneer woman on a quest to capture a giant bear. Isaacs has created a well-developed character in Swamp Angel. She is a confident and likeable character, so readers immediately cheer for her when she sets out to capture Tarnation. Although the story moves quickly from beginning to end, Isaacs still manages to provide a detailed and authentic representation of southern, pioneer life. She references cabins, root cellars, and wagons, which set the scene of the story. The dialog of the characters is also representative of the story's southern style, as Swamp Angel says things like “Varmint…I’m much obliged for that pelt you’re carryin.’”

The story's quick pacing creates an overall feeling of excitement and suspense as readers are eager to find out if Swamp Angel will capture Tarnation. Overall, Isaacs’ unique blend of fantasy and history make for an entertaining read aloud.

Zelinsky’s illustrations beautifully compliment Isaacs’ story. His use of folk art paintings on wood veneers creates a rustic feeling and fits with the overall style of the story. The illustrations are vibrant, detailed, and perfectly capture the expressions of Swamp Angel. Zelinsky creates a stark contrast between Swamp Angel and her surroundings, her size dominates the page. Throughout the story Zelinsky alternates between full-page illustrations and smaller vignettes; however, Swamp Angel is always the central focus and her presence on the page is commanding.

The overall theme of Swamp Angel is that if we use our talents we can fulfill our dreams. This story inspires children to be proud of who they are and to embrace their differences.

My Thoughts:

I enjoyed this story immensely, as did my children. This was the first “giant” story with a female protagonist that I have ever read, so my interest was piqued from the beginning. I appreciated Swamp Angel’s confidence and I thought the sentiment of the story was positive, especially for young girls. I was captivated by Zelinsky’s illustrations; they were unique and complimented the story well. I also liked how Isaacs wrote the story in a southern dialect; this added to the humor and authenticity of the story. Overall, this story is a great read aloud with a positive message.

REVIEW EXCERPTS

KIRKUS STARRED REVIEW, 1994: “It is impossible to convey the sheer pleasure, the exaggerated loopiness, of newcomer Isaac’s wonderful story.”

BOOKLIST STARRED REVIEW, 1994: “Forget those images of angelic maidens, ethereal and demure. Angelica Longrider is the greatest woodswoman in Tennessee.”

COOPERATIVE CHILDREN’S BOOK CENTER CHOICES, 1994: “[Zelinsky’s] wry, larger-than-life depictions of the Swamp Angel and her ‘most wondrous heap of trouble’ provide the perfect complement to Anne Isaac’s delightful story.”

AWARDS

Randolph Caldecott Medal: 1995, Honor Book

New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book of the Year: 1994, Winner

ABC Children’s Booksellers Choice Award: 1995, Winner

CONNECTIONS

·         Read Paul Bunyan and discuss the similarities and differences between Paul Bunyan and Swamp Angel.

·         Show children images of the star constellations Ursa Major, “Larger Bear.” Pass out a connect-the-dots constellation worksheet, so children can see the shape of the constellation.

·         Ask children to continue Swamp Angel’s story by writing about her journey to Montana.

·         Talk about pioneers and show children pictures of pioneers and objects commonly used in pioneer days.

The Three Little Pigs

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Kellogg, Steven. 1997. The Three Little Pigs. Ill. by Steven Kellogg. New York: Morrow Junior Books. ISBN 0688087329

PLOT SUMMARY

When Serafina Sow decides to retire from her successful waffle-making business, the “Wheeled Wafflery,” she turns the business over to her three hard-working piglets. The three pigs build homes and continue taking the wafflery from “hamlet to hamlet, delighting passersby with their delicious waffles.” When the wolf, Tempesto, shows up he is not interested in waffles, but instead wants to gobble up the three pigs. Luckily, the pigs outwit Tempesto with a deliciously clever trap.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Kellogg’s unique retelling of The Three Little Pigs makes for a sticky sweet story that children of all ages are sure to enjoy.  In this version, Kellogg provides a well-crafted back story for his characters. The simplicity and humor of Kellogg's story make it easy and fun to read. Children will delight at the story's element of suspense and unique take on a classic tale.

Kellogg’s retelling modernizes the traditional three pigs tale. His personification of the pigs is representative of many American families, so American children, in particular, will identify with the Sow family. Kellogg's story of how a single mother creates a successful business and raises three children will resonate with not only children, but also their parents.  Even the big bad wolf is modernized in this version. He is no longer just a one-dimensional wolf, but rather a fast-talking street thug.

Not only does the modernization of the story set Kellogg’s retelling apart from other version, but the fact that the pigs are not selfish and all work together is unique to Kellogg’s story. In this retelling, there is a stark contrast between good and evil. The pigs are all good and lack any character flaws, while the wolf, is inherently evil. The contrast of characters encourages children to cheer for the pigs and recognize that good triumphs over evil.

Kellogg uses bright, watercolor illustrations to tell the story of The Three Little Pigs. The colorful illustrations are captivating and set a bright and cheery scene. The illustrations alternate in size, but include many details. The attention to detail adds to the story's appeal and allows children who cannot read to still understand the story, simply by examining the pictures. Kellogg's illustrations clearly depict the events of the story from beginning to end.  Children are sure to notice something new every time they read the book.

Children will relate to the modern elements in this retelling of The Three Little Pigs. The pig's lives are similar to those of typical families and the modern take on the wolf character adds a humorous touch. The way that the pigs outwit the wolf is new and adds a nice surprise to the story. This story helps children understand the importance of family and working together.

MY THOUGHTS

I enjoyed Kellogg’s retelling of The Three Little Pigs. The pig's waffle business and Kellogg’s bright illustrations make this story fun and engaging. I like how the illustrations tell the story, it makes the book appealing to children of all ages. This books is a refreshing twist on the traditional three pigs tale.

REVIEW EXCERPTS

KIRKUS REVIEW, 1997: “A talent-strewn retelling that only enhances the original.”

BOOKLIST STARRED REVIEW, 1997: “Pure pleasure for Kellogg fans.”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL “Kellogg’s usual busy, highly defined illustrations complement the humorous, clever text.”

AWARDS

Arkansas Diamond Primary Book Award: Winner, 2000

CONNECTIONS

• Create paper pig and wolf ears and snouts and encourage children to act out the story.

• Read other versions of The Three Little Pigs and discuss their similarities and differences. Some titles include:
• The Three Little Pigs by James Marshall
• The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka
• The 3 Little Dassies by Jan Brett
• The Three Little Wolves and the Big Bad Pig by Eugene Trivizas

• Ask children to write their own version of the three pigs.

• Have a waffle tasting party and allow children to place various toppings on their waffles or allow children to create a “recipe” for their own specialty waffle.

The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog! by Mo Willems

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Willems, Mo. 2004. The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!. Ill. by Mo Willems. New York: Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0786818697

PLOT SUMMARY 


Mo Willems’ beloved pigeon returns in this sequel to Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! This time, the pigeon finds a scrumptious hot dog and is all set to gobble it up when an inquisitive little duckling shows up. The pigeon is immediately suspicious of the duckling, especially when the duckling starts to ask questions, like “Is that a hot dog?” and “What do they taste like?” The pigeon is quick to inform the duckling that it is not “a hot dog” but “my hot dog.” However, the clever little duckling manages to convince the pigeon to share his hot dog and soon the pigeon realizes that he’s been duped by a very clever little duckling. 


CRITICAL ANALYSIS 

In The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!, Mo Willems flawlessly captures the emotions of our favorite pigeon. The pigeon is presented as an impatient and enthusiastic character and Willems use of hyperbole brilliantly conveys these emotions. He uses words like “oooooh!” and “yummy! yummy! yummy!” to describe a delicious hot dog and bold exclamation points further emphasize the pigeon’s enthusiasm. 

Conversely, the little duckling is presented as mild mannered, he remains calm and patient throughout the story despite the pigeon's hysterics. The contrast of the two characters is humorous and encourages children to sympathize with both the pigeon and the little duckling.

Mo Willems’ illustrations immediately grab the readers’ attention. His use of big blocks of pastel color and thick, black lines allow the reader to focus on the characters and their story rather than the background. The use of large, exaggerated text, highlighted in various colors, further emphasizes the pigeon’s excitement and frustration. Willems dedicates multiple pages to large illustrations of the pigeon yelling things like “That’s It!,” which creates both a humorous and dramatic effect. 

Willems also presents a stark contrast between the pigeon and the little duckling. The pigeon is large and imposing and his words dominate the page, while in comparison, the little duckling is small and his dialog is understated. The contrast between the pigeon and the little duckling will resonate with children that have siblings.Willems' illustrations complement the text and make this story an entertaining read, for all ages.

This book provides an opportunity to discuss sharing and what it is like to be a big brother/sister versus being a little brother/sister. Willems’ effortlessly illustrates how a simple compromise can solve a dilemma.

REVIEW EXCERPTS

LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION: “This title is a great read aloud”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL STARRED BOOK REVIEW: “Willems' deceptively simple cartoon drawings convincingly portray his protagonist's emotional dilemma…”

AWARDS

Publishers Weekly Best Children’s Books, 2004

SMART Book Award: Nominee, 2009

CONNECTIONS

Discuss sharing and compromising. Ask children if they have a little brother or sister whom they must share with.

Share some of Mo Willems’ other pigeon stories and ask children which is their favorite.

Create pigeon puppets and ask children to act out the story or make up their own pigeon story.

Discuss other possible endings to the story and whether or not the pigeon should have shared his hot dog.

If a SMART board or computer stations are available, allow children to visit www.pigeonpresents.com and play the interactive hot dog dress-up game.

Kitten's First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes

BIBLIOGRAPHY

            Henkes, Kevin. 2004. Kitten’s First Full Moon. Ill. by Kevin Henkes. New York: Greenwillow Books. ISBN 978-0060588281

PLOT SUMMARY

In Kitten’s First Full Moon, Kitten is relaxing on her front porch when she suddenly notices a little bowl of milk. The milk doesn’t look too far out of reach, but no matter how hard she tries she just can’t seem to reach the little bowl. Excited by the prospect of drinking the milk, kitten chases the bowl “down the sidewalk, through the garden, past the field, and by the pond,” never realizing that the bowl is actually the full moon.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Henkes' simple writing makes Kitten's First Full Moon a delightful story. Children will be captivated by Henkes' precocious little kitten and the story's element of suspense. Only one to two lines of text are contained on each page, which makes the story easy to read, especially to a young audience. Throughout the book Henkes echoes the phrase “poor kitten” after each of kitten’s mishaps, so children are able to interact with the story by predicting the pattern.

Henkes uses bold black and white drawings to tell the story of Kitten’s First Full Moon. The illustrations complement the text because they create a stark contrast between kitten’s environment and the full moon. The contrast helps children to understand why kitten mistakes the moon for a bowl of milk. The monochromatic color scheme also allows the reader to focus on the central elements of the story without being distracted by bright colors or objects in the background.

Henkes alternates between full page illustrations and blocks of illustrations. The full page illustrations provide close up views of kitten and her various expressions, while the blocked illustrations convey kitten’s movement throughout the story.

Children will relate to kitten’s natural curiosity and determination as she chases after the little bowl of milk. They will find her naiveté humorous and be intrigued by the lengths to which she goes to get to the “bowl of milk.” This story helps children realize that things are not always as they seem.

REVIEW EXCERPTS

BOOKLIST STARRED REVIEW: “Henkes creates another winner in this simple, charming story about a naïve little kitten…”

KIRKUS STARRED REVIEW: “Simply charming”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “An irresistible offering from the multifaceted Henkes”

AWARDS

Charlotte Zolotow Award: Winner, 2005

Randolph Caldecott Medal: Winner, 2005

New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book of the Year: Winner, 2004

CONNECTIONS

·         Talk about the moon. Discuss phases of the moon and show actual photographs of the moon.

·         Cut out several outlines of various objects and ask the children to guess the items.

·         Discuss all of the things that children wish they could do but can’t because of their size or age. Also, talk about the advantages of being young/little.

·         Talk about optical illusions. Share some pictures of optical illusions and ask the children to find the illusion. A good website to use is the National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences http://kids.niehs.nih.gov/games/illusions/index.htm