MILLIONS OF CATS by Wanda Gag (genre 1 book 3)

What are a very old man and a very old woman to do to cure their loneliness? Why get a cat of course!

This classic story follows the old man as he sets out to get a cat for his wife. What would be a simple trek to find just one cat turns into mayhem. As all the cats are proclaimed the prettiest, they cannot be left behind. Upon arriving home to his wife, a solution has to be found in lieu of keeping millions of cats!

This picture book was awarded the Newbery Honor Award in 1929. Black and white illustrations lead the reader along the path with the old man as he journeys. A predictable refrain greats the reader as the multitude of millions gather on the page.

Review Excerpts:
"Gag's woodcut art snowballs lyrically through the book, stealing your eye and telling it just where to go..." -Horn Book

"Considered by many to have ushered in the age of the modern picture book, this Newberry Honor winner is characterized by innovative design and a strong storyteller's cadence." - School Library Journal

Connections:
*Readers and listeners can repeat the refrain together to encourage participation.

*It can be discussed with listeners the logistics of the couple keeping millions of cats.

*Another discussion option is the subject of making choices. Have the listeners ever wanted one of everything, such as an ice cream flavor but only been able to choose one? What would have happened if they had been able to have every flavor of ice cream?

Bibliography:
Gag, Wanda. 1956, Millions of Cats.  New York NY: G. P. Putnam's Sons. ISBN 0399233256.

A BALL FOR DAISY by Chris Raschka (genre 1 book 1)

A Ball for Daisy is a wordless picture book by award winning author Chris Raschka. The illustrations tell the story of a dog named Daisy and her much loved red ball. One day the ball is lost while playing in the park with another dog and Daisy must deal with the grief of losing her favorite toy.

The simplistic, yet colorful illustrations in this book tell the story without the need for words. The color scheme and painted lines will appeal to a child. As the pages progress you can feel Daisy's love for her ball and her loss when it is gone. a wordless picture book such as this enables a child to independently "read" the book and discern for themselves what is happening encouraging visual literacy. A child will be able to identify with Daisy losing her ball and find a satisfying resolution that no matter how terrible it was to lose something you love, the feeling will not last forever. In the resolution the book also hints at what a friend might do if they hurt another's toy.

Review excerpts:
"A story that is noteworthy for both its artistry and its child appeal." -Horn Book

"Rarely, perhaps never, has so steep an emotional arc been drawn with such utter, winning simplicity." -Kirkus Reviews

Connections:
*Wordless picture books such as this are great to start discussions with a child on topics such as dealing with loss.

*Analyzing the pictures in a book with a child can help them learn to infer meaning and to draw conclusions about what might happen next.

*Also by Chris Raschka, Yo! Yes?, a Caldecott Honor Book.  

Bibliography:
Raschka, Chris. 2011. A Ball for Daisy. New York, NY: Scwartz & Wade. ISBN 9780375958618

CAT COUNT by Betsy Lewin (genre 1 book 2)

Cat Count by Betsy Lewin is illustrated with a chaotic chorus of cats. As each page is turned, rhyming language introduces the number of cats and their antics from one to ten. The numeral is included in addition to the words to reinforcing simple counting skills. After five, addition is added inviting the reader to add the previous cats together. The counting then continues up to ten and a final count of fifty-five. But even those with no interest in math will be surprised by the ending as the fat cat, who was originally counted as only one, has new arrivals resulting in "too many cats!"

Lewin is renowned for her painterly illustration techniques like the ones in Click, Clack, Moo; Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin. Here her cat characters are drawn with crazy personality to spare. The lines convey the personality of the cats as they play, jive, and yowl. The color which was added in this addition of the book helps to make each cat its own feline. Kids will enjoy studying the cats and their antics.

Review Excerpts:
"The bouncy rhyme makes a fine and funny read-aloud, and both cat-lovers and compulsive young counters will linger happily over the ever-more-populous pictures." -Kirkus 

"The loose, pen-and-ink and watercolor cartoons perfectly match the lighthearted tone of the text." - School Library Journal

"Cat lovers and children just learning to count will be entranced by this colorful, energetic book." -Booklist

Connections:
*Beginning counters can count the cats from one to ten.

*Adults can point out the words and corresponding numeral on each page to reinforce language and math literacy.

*Counting the cats becomes a lesson in addition for older children using the reinforcing numerals on each page.

Bibliography:
Lewin, Betsy. 2003. Cat Count. New York NY: Henry Holt and Company. ISBN 0805067477

THE THREE CABRITOS by Eric Kimmel (genre 2 book 1)

The "Three Billy Goats Gruff" are transported to the Texas-Mexico border in this original retelling of the traditional folktale.

The three musical cabritos (or young goats) decide to attend a fiesta across the bridge. As each takes a turn approaching the bridge, they are stopped by the mythical Chupacabra who proclaims that he is going to eat them up. Each brother barters for his life and outwits the hungry creature with a musical twist to rid the bridge of the Chupacabra forever.

Author Eric Kimmel weaves a story with a humorous tone that lends itself to reading aloud. Repetitive lines such as "Buenos dias, cabrito" and "Gracias, Senor Chupacabra" lend themselves to creating a voice for each character. This helps draw in young readers. The use of the Spanish language will make a connection with those familiar with the language. Audience participation can be incorporated by inviting listeners to speak along with the Chupacabra as he finishes each interaction by saying succinctly "That's Enough. You can go." This simple statement can add tone and action and will help them become a part of the story.

The illustrations by Stephen Gilpin are drawn by hand in graphite and colored in on the computer. The three cabritos are varied in size, as in the original tale, but are drawn here grinning with laid back confidence in varied colors of overalls. The potentially frightening Chupacabra is drawn to resemble a frowning blue fluff ball with tiny claws and feet. This delightful variation on the traditional folktale will will be a hit with readers of all ages!

Review Excerpts:
"There's something about Mr. Kimmel that can turn folktales, both classic and original into readaloud pleasures." -School Library Journal

"The story moves briskly, but the fat, blue chupacabra is far from frightening..." - Booklist

Connections:
*Intermingled Spanish language, along with the included glossary, make this a good story to help connect with bilingual audiences.

*Pair with other titles with a southwestern theme such as Amadilly Chilli by Helen Ketteman.

Bibliography:
Kimmel, Eric. 2007. The Three Cabritos. Ill. by Stephen Hilpin. New York: Marshall Cavendish Children. ISBN 9780761453437

THE LION & THE MOUSE by Jerry Pinkney (genre 2 book 3)

This 2010 Caldecott Award winner brings to life Aesop's fable The Lion and the Mouse with the stunningly simplistic illustrations that tell the story without any words. Pinkney started this project by first creating the illustrations to tell the story. What he discovered at the end was that no text was required. His illustrations were all ready telling the story for him.

Children will delight in studying the details on every page. Starting with the cover, every brush stroke flows with expression and emotion.While the lion and the mouse are the primary characters, each page unfolds as teaming with life on the African Serengeti. The lack of text allows for a vast array of discussion from young readers. Upon each reading a new detail or question can be found. This amount of depth allows this title to be one that can be used for a variety of ages and for many years to come.

Review excerpts:
"Pinkney has added a widening sense of family and community, where acts of kindness, even the smallest, will have a butterfly effect." -Kirkus

"Thanks to the close-ups, pull-aways, paneled insets, and double-page spreads, the reader is compelled into the eternal drama of the transactions between the strong and the meek." - Horn Book

Connections:
*Have readers go on a picture book safari by studying the cover and pages of the book and discussing what you find.

*Discuss why the mouse helped the lion. Discussions can include topics such as doing the right thing and the tiny mouse being able to help the lion and how that can translate into a moral for life.

Bibliography:
Pinkney, Jerry. 2009. The Lion & the Mouse. New York,NY: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 9780316013567

THE THREE LITTLE PIGS by James Marshall (genre 2 book 2)

In this version of the traditional folktale three pigs go out into the world to seek their fortunes but an encounter with a wolf will change their lives forever.

Each individual pig builds his own house. The first two pigs are warned of the poor quality of their building materials but they refuse to listen. When the wolf comes knocking, there is little to keep him outside. On approaching the third little pig's house, the wolf is stumped  by the brick construction and proceeds to try to talk the pig out of his safe haven.

James Marshall expands on this traditional tale of  the three little pigs by extending the final battle between the third pig and the wolf. Each continues to try and outsmart the other until the pig is almost caught. In the end the wolf is outsmarted and the pig doesn't go hungry.

Repetitious phrasing will be familiar for those who have heard the story before while drawing in those who have not. Marshall's cartoon-like illustrations fill the story with detail. From the book's cover, where the pigs appear to be bowing on stage, to the big bad wolf holding a pink balloon, each illustration helps to add to the depth of the text.

[spoiler]
While this tale is often touted as being violent, Marshall does not shy away from allowing the wolf to eat the first two little pigs. But the allusion to the pigs' successful stage play on the exterior cover gives a nod to the pigs telling their own tale. The conclusion helps support this theory since the third little pig succeeds in serving up the wolf for supper, inside a closed stew pot of course!

Review Excerpts:
"Familiar fare, infused with jaunty cartoon illustrations that add a generous helping of sly humor." - School Library Journal

"For pure, lighthearted fun with the essential tale intact, James
Marshall’s pigs take the cake." - Horn Book

Connections:
*Have listeners repeat the repetitious phrases to help include them in the storytelling.

*Use problem solving and critical thinking to discuss what children might have done if they were the third little pig.

*Older children can come up with their own version of this classic tale.

Marshall, James. 1989. The Three Little Pigs. New York, NY: Dial Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 9780803705944

WE ARE AMERICA by Walter Dean Myers (genre 3 book 1)

Who is America? We Are America: A Tribute From the Heart by Walter Dean Myers and illustrated by his son, Christopher Myers is a thought provoking text. With the iconic Statue of Liberty on the cover, the award winning pair weave poetry and art to create a book not about America's icons but about the people who create her. Inspired by 9/11 and quotations from many historical documents, both Myers wanted to create a book together exuding patriotism.

Each page includes Walter Dean Myers' free-verse poetry on the ideals, events, and people that have impacted American history. "We were willing to die to forge our dream..." expresses the emotion that many Americans have committed to in the ongoing fight for their ideals. Many of these verses can be open to interpretation and allow for discussion of historical topics such as the protestation of taxes by Britain or the Civil War. Christopher Myers' painterly art creates a montage of images of famous and ordinary Americans. The striking brush strokes evoke emotion and thought with images of unknown protesters, known figures such as Mark Twain, and historical events like the Battle of Wounded Knee. Further provocation is provided by the addition of quotations on each page from a variety of historical persons or documents. These include excerpts from the Declaration of Independence, past presidents, the Treaty of Paris and many others. At the back of the book the quotes are given context to help further discussion. Art notes are also included to help shed light on the source of inspiration for illustrations.

On the surface the book is a patriotic read of history. Older readers will find that with more study and discussion the depth to the story of America is one worth exploring. All who open the pages will be touched and moved on their own level.

Review Excerpts:

"Widely inclusive and full of passion and pride..." -Booklist

"Stunning." -Kirkus

"A thought-provoking and largely accomplished work for students of American history." -School Library Journal

Connections:

*Special section discussing the origin of each quote and the theme behind each illustration can lead to multiple discussions regarding each page.

*This book can be a starting point for discussions about poetry, art, history or a culmination of all three.

Bibliography:

Myers, Walter Dean. 2011. We Are America: A Tribute From the Heart. Ill. by Christopher Myers. New York: Collins. ISBN: 9780060523091

CREATURE CARNIVAL By Marilyn Singer (genre 3 book 2)

"Come along, children of all ages. 

See fabled beasts not found in cages. 

Spend your parents' hard-earned wages. 

It's Creature Carnival time."

This delightful book of poetry by Marilyn Singer explores a vast assortment of fabled creatures such as the Mermaid, the Cheshire Cat, and Godzilla. Combined with the ink illustrations of Gris Grimly, a fascinating world of the weird and absurd has been created to draw in readers of all ages. 

As a companion book to Monster Museum, this duo of author & illustrator combine poetic verse and wacky illustrations to define the tales for each creature. Beauty doesn't mind that her Beast's growl makes her father wince and the Satyrs do and excellent job square dancing. The rhythmical poetry in Creature Carnival lends itself well to reading aloud; and the cartoon-like illustrations are just macabre enough to fascinate without being gruesome. 

The "Featured Creatures" glossary at the back of the book gives a brief description of each character. The Minotaur's genealogy is exposed and Greek mythology is said to be "full of bull." The Coyote is said to have hailed from Native American tales but others such as the Mermaid are given a more superficial origin. Either way, the characters will draw in children and adults alike and possibly inspire further research and reading. 

Review Excerpts:
"This attention-getting menagerie will have readers and listeners sitting on the edges-and probably falling right out-of their seats..." -Kirkus

"Not since Jack Prelutsky and Arnold Lobel teamed up in Nightmares (1976) and The Headless Horseman Rides Tonight (1980, both Greenwillow) has there been a better collection of poems celebrating the weird. Creature Carnival is worth any admission price." -School Library Journal


Connections:
*Creature glossary at the back of the book can be used to inspire future reading. You can provide other books that contain the different creatures or send the kids off on a scavenger hunt to find them themselves.

*Readers can be encouraged to research a different creature of lore and write their own a poem for it; or they can draw their own creature and put his characteristics to rhyme.


Bibliography:
Singer, Marilyn. 2004. Creature Carnival. Ill. by Gris Grimly.  New York: Hyperion. ISBN 9780786818778.

DIAMOND WILLOW By Helen Frost (genre 3 book 3)

Trying to come up with the words to describe Diamond Willow, a novel in verse was challenging. In reading it, the words flowed almost effortlessly. The main character is twelve but the narrative reads in a way that is simple enough for a nine year old to read and captivating enough to hold an adults attention. The writing style creates a simple read, however, there is nothing simple about this book.

Printz Honor Book author Helen Frost writes the story of Willow, a girl trying to find herself in the midst of interior Alaska. Most pages are illustrated with a variety of diamond shaped verse which mirror the markings found on a diamond willow branch.  When the bark is stripped away and the wood polished, diamond shapes are revealed creating beauty from what began as a scar. The narrative evolves in a similar fashion as Willow's thoughts unfold. 

The individual poems on each page contain highlighted words within them. As a reader follows the page the bold text jumps out and creates a poem within the poem. Interspersed within pages of diamond shaped poems are additional pages of narrative from other character's points-of-view. These are animals that are given voices in this novel as souls of Willow's ancestors who keep watch over her. The animals create a unique imagery within the story. Such as Willows great-great-great grandmother as a Spruce Hen who watches over her when she gets stranded in a blizzard; and Diamond, Willow's twin sister who came back to the family as a puppy. This book will appeal to many readers with its coming of age story, strong adventure theme, and animal characters.  


Review excerpts:
"This story in easy-to-read verse blends exciting survival adventure with a contemporary girl's discovery of family roots and secrets." -Booklist

"This complex and elegant novel will resonate with readers who savor powerful drama and multifaceted characters." -School Library Journal


Connections:
*Children can be asked to write a diamond shaped poem of their own. For an extra challenge ask them to put a hidden message inside of it.

* The structure of different types of poetry can also be discussed. Students could even create their own rules and try to follow them. 

* A person's relationship with an animal can be discussed in relation to friendship. How is it different than a friendship with another person?

*Death could also be a topic of discussion. Have any readers ever felt like someone who had died was still with them?   


Bibliography:
Frost, Helen. 2008. Diamond Willow. New York: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux. ISBN 9780374317768.

QUEST FOR THE TREE KANGAROO (genre 4 book 1)

Is it a bear with a long tail? Or a monkey with a bear's head? It has a pouch which means it is a marsupial, correct?

It is called a Matschie's ("MATCH-eez") tree kangaroo and it is so rare and unstudied that it almost seems a make-believe creature. Sy Montgomery (author) and Nic Bishop (photographer) join an expedition led by Lisa Dabek to help document and bring awareness to this amazing animal. The whole of this book was written to journal their experiences and to bring to light the need to conserve this amazingly rare animal.

Sy Montgomery wrote this book in a conversational manner which makes it easy to understand. Many details have been included about the study process of the researchers, Lisa Dabek's work specifically, and the various creatures that inhabit the world of the tree kangaroo. Explanation is also included about the various roles of members of the exhibition and their backgrounds which encourages readers with different strengths to seek out their own way to make a contribution. There is enough information included for older students to use it as a resource but not so much data to make the reading heavy or dry. Even adults will enjoy reading about the experience on their own or with a younger reader.

The photography in the book is amazing! Nic Bishop was able to take so many varied shots of seldom seen animals. The exquisite details make the animals and the forest leap off of the page. Montgomery also includes an narrative about how Bishop was able to plan and pack for an expedition like this one and get such amazing photos. Bishop's photography, such as the lush green lichen and ferns, makes the reader understand the nature of the conditions the members of the expedition team experienced. When combined with Montgomery's text such as his quote from a member's announcement of being "SpongeBob WetPants" it brings the story to life and makes it relevant to the reader.

Another notable part of this book is the attention to the human element. Bishop's photographs of the native trekkers who assisted and became a part of the team are personal. These natives have made conservation of the tree kangaroo part of their culture. Having their efforts documented by Bishop and Montgomery is insightful and beautiful. The sum total of the book is valuable on so many levels. It is certainly a book worth investigating.


Review Excerpts:
"Another beautifully illustrated entry in the Scientists in the Field series." -Booklist

"The book's fascinating glimpses into a little-explored region will hold the attention of anyone interested in unusual creatures and the efforts to study them." -School Library Journal


Connections:
*Have students choose one of the animals introduced in the book and do further research. Another options is to discuss how to make a plan to study the animal as they did in preparation for the expedition in the book.

*Children could keep a journal of their week and then turn it into a story-type book.

* The sections titled Lisa's Advice for Kids and Tree Kangaroos Near You give options for further discussion and discovery such as researching other endangered species or occupations that could effect conservation.


Montgomery, Sy. 2006. Quest For The Tree Kangaroo. Ill. by Nic Bishop. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN: 9780618496419

DOGS by Seymour Simon (genre 4 book 2)

The nonfiction section reserved for dogs is one of the most commonly sought out areas in the library. Dogs by Seymour Simon is a great addition to this much loved genre. Children are often curious about the world around them and Simon has made a career out of encouraging this curiosity.

This introductory book to dogs in written in a conversational manner. There are no clearly defined chapters or sections, which encourages a child to read through the whole book. Broad topics are touched on such as how historically different breeds of dogs evolved, as well as behavior and physical characteristics of each. Another important topic included is the responsibilities of dog owners. While not really a book filled with data, it does give many interesting facts. For example, racing dogs such as the greyhound can run over forty miles an hour while the fastest human distance runner can only run fifteen miles an hour.

The book is illustrated with color photos of a variety of dogs. Some are close-ups giving a sense of familiarity while others show dogs in action running,  playing and swimming. While the breeds are mentioned, there are no titles under most pictures identifying which breed the dogs might be. The front and back inside cover does list different groupings of dogs such as terriers and herding dogs. Within those lists a few dogs are given a red arrow from the breed name to a corresponding photo. The combination of adorable pictures with conversational text, and sprinkled with interesting facts will help hold readers attention.


Review Excepts:
"Simon writes crisply for a young audience, who will eagerly turn the pages to see the next endearing color photograph." -Booklist

"Readers will thoroughly enjoy every word and every photograph..." -School Library Journal 


Connections:
*This book can be paired with Why Do Puppies Do That? also by Seymour Simon.

*Children can talk or write about what they need to do to take care of a dog.

*Younger listeners can color a dog coloring page. Older readers can draw their own dog (real or imaginary) and name them. They can then share their dog and why they named him what they did.


Simon, Seymour. 2004. Dogs. New York: Harper Collins. ISBN: 9780060289423

LINCOLN TELLS A JOKE (genre 4 book 3)

One of the most frequently mentioned names in history, Lincoln is a figure whom many only know of his role in politics.  Lincoln tells a Joke: How Laughter Saved the President by Kathleen Krull and Paul Brewer uses humor to connect with a wide age range of readers. This connection will foster an interest in learning more about Lincoln and the history that surrounds him. 

This picture book biography is an excellent introduction to the man as a personality. Commonly known facts are presented such as his birth in a log cabin, his vocation as a lawyer, and his wife Mary Todd. However, it is the addition of the humor that infused Lincoln's life, shared within this book, that brings the pages to life.  

The acrylic illustrations by Stacey Innerst are done in a non-literal fashion. The resulting stylized images resound in a contemporary fashion. However, the historical feel is still maintained within the book such as with the creation of a parchment like texture. The addition of Lincoln's well known quotes such as "Four score and seven years ago..." as part of the illustrations create interest and reinforce the importance of literacy in his life. This adds to the text creating interest for the reader.  The resulting whole of this work is informational and entertaining. It will draw readers in and leave them thirsting for more knowledge.

Review excerpts:
"A positive portrait that humanizes the lionized man for whom it was a love of laughter that kept him going." -Booklist

"Krull is an expert at teasing out the fun, quirky sides of her subjects and sharing them in a way that is both genuine and engaging." -School Library Journal

Connections:
*Discuss how people can use humor to make a difficult subject easier or to make fun of someone while trying to hide it in a joke.

*Have students find other facts about Lincoln. Alternately, they can take a fact given in the book and do further research on it. 

Krull, Kathleen. Brewer, Paul. Lincoln Tells a Joke. Ill. by Stacy Innerst. Boston: Harcourt Children's Books. 2010. ISBN  9780152066390

THE GAME OF SILENCE (genre 5 book 1)

In this Scott O'Dell Award winning book nine year old Omakayas comes of age as the world is changing for her tribe. Set in 1847 Erdrich uses native language to transport the reader to another time and place. However, the book is written in a clear and clean manner allowing for easy reading. Young readers can also easily relate to a child's day of playing, fishing, and being told what to do by adults.

Pencil illustrations by author Louise Erdrich help to bring the story to life. They also help introduce the elements of nature, culture, and crafts of Ojibwe tribe. These rich details provide insight into the time period and the history in which this novel is set. The author's notes and glossary are included on the Ojibwe Language along with a pronunciation guide. This is the second book in the trilogy by Erdrich and based on her research of her own heritage. This series will be much read and loved.


Review excerpts:
"In this heartrending novel the sense of what was lost is overwhelming." -Booklist

"Erdrich's captivating tale of four seasons portrays a deep appreciation of our environment, our history, and our Native American sisters and brothers." -School Library Journal


Connections:
*The seasons are a strong theme throughout this book. A variety of discussions can ensue from this such as the traditions of the culture described by the book or the seasonal traditions of our own cultures. It can also be discussed how the seasons can be a metaphor for the phases of life; birth, growth, and death.

*Book two in the trilogy, readers can be encouraged to go back and read The Birch House and then follow up by reading The Porcupine Year by Erdrich.


Erdrich, Louise. 2006. The Game of Silence. New York: Harper Collins. ISBN 9780064410298

PENNY FROM HEAVEN (genre 5 book 3)

Barbara Ann Falucci is called Penny after her father's favorite Bing Crosby song "Pennies from Heaven." Penny's world is that of many kids at eleven; summer dreams limited by her mom, a friend who keeps getting into trouble, and oddly endearing relatives. Her diverse family is divided by her father's death and words have been left unspoken. When Penny is injured in an accident, the old family wounds are reopened and she must try to repair her world.

This historical novel about an Italian American family in the 1950's is beautifully written by Jennifer L. Holm. Penny's relationships with her family of characters is enthralling such as her eccentric uncle who lives in his car and her hilarious cousin Frankie.  The authenticity of the time period is built upon Holm's own family history on whom the book is based. Children from divided families will connect with the theme of a child's desire to find her place. Other readers will also be drawn in by the enduring love of family and the desire to heal.


Review excerpts:
"Penny's present-tense narration is both earthy and observant, and her commentary on her families' eccentricities sparkles." -Kirkus Reviews

"Penny and her world are clearly drawn and eminently believable." - School Library Journal


Connections:
*Have students discuss how Penny's life is different than modern society, such as her wringer washing machine and listening to sports on the radio.

*Readers can research Italian American families of the 1950's and what was happening at that time in America.


Holm, Jennifer. 2006. Penny From Heaven. New York: Random House Children's Books.  ISBN 0375936874