No matter your age, a good picture book should have the ability to make you smile, laugh or cry. Picture books are the first introduction most of us have to the world of books, and the worlds to which they transport us. Sharing picture books is an important bonding experience for parents and children. While the emphasis is, of course, on building literacy skills for children, it is important that the books are entertaining, for everyone. I have been trying to decide what to do with my blog this year, and have decided that I should be more regular with my postings. I will be starting picture book Friday, and highlighting a new or old picture book will entertain readers of all ages. Let’s get started!
Weasels, by Elys Dolan: There is something very important that you don’t know about weasels. They are plotting world domination! Dolan takes us into Weasel headquarters where the Weasels have run into mechanical trouble in their scheming. As they struggle to fix their machine wackiness ensues as other options are explored. Will the weasels be able to fix the machine and take over the world? Read and find out!
Dolan’s illustrations are colorful and detailed. Adults and kids alike will enjoy pouring over large pages full of silly weasely antics. There are speech bubbles on every page, along with the narrating text, which makes this a better one-on-one reading candidate than sharing with a large group. The text works well with the graphics, and Dolan knows when to let the picture take center stage and let the her young readers simply enjoy and study the scenes. Adults will enjoy the antics of the weasels, my favorite being the one who thinks his big drill will solve everything.
Overall Assessment: Fun, silly and delightful from start to finish.
Ages: 5-8
Backbends and Bookends 