"Who gave Mr. Beckett
a bump on his noggin?
What did the lion
get the lamb
for her birthday?"
Yes, there are twenty questions! The first sets the tone: count them and readers have an answer. The second sets them back a bit, offering a perfect opportunity for careful thought, much discussion, and a story or two. That will open the floodgates as each new spread offers questions to ponder, reconsider, and most of all, enjoy!
Each question is new, and totally independent of every other question asked. Christian Robinson fills the spreads with mixed media images that are boldly colored, and offers a world to explore. Many are funny, while others invite further emotional connections. Inspiring creativity at every turn, it would be interesting to have readers respond both orally and in writing, depending on their ages and abilities to express themselves. Each question prompts kids to think outside the box and with independence in their respsonses. I love that, for the most part, there are no 'right' answers.
Inventive? You bet. Brilliant? I would say so. Unexpected? Oh, yes! Mac Barnett is a wonder, and this collaboration with Christian Robinson, also wonderful, makes for a book to be read a lot. Be sure to savor it each time. The artwork doesn't help with answers, but it does provide excellent and appealing context for each of the twenty questions.
Full of humor while giving kids pause to think deeply and consider their responses, you will not go wrong getting this book for your kids, your classrooms, and your school libraries.
"Which of these children is dreaming of peaches?" Your turn ...
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