Word Play and Picture Books

We are continuing to define, identify, and explain word play and literary techniques in 2012 picture books.  I am sharing 2012 picture books to continue to introduce as many as I can for our Mock Caldecott 2013 Club.  Here are some I've shared in the last week or so:

Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis

For simile, symbolism, and repetition (great for mood also):

 
We also talked about the strong text to text connections we saw with The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes, Bully by Patricia Polacco, and Wonder by R.J. Palacio.  This is a sad book, but the kids loved the illustrations and felt strong regret for the way the narrator treated Maya. We had a great discussion about why the author decided to end it that way and if people should be given second chances.

E. B. Lewis:

Jacqueline Woodson:

Nighttime Ninja by Barbara DaCosta, illustrated by Ed Young

For alliteration and metaphor (great for prediction, also):

My students really enjoyed Nighttime Ninja  and liked the surprise ending.  We read A Strange Place to Call Home earlier, also illustrated by Ed Young, so they felt like experts on his paper collages!



  Chopsticks by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Scott Magoon

  We used this one for puns and personification.  The kids got a kick out of the puns.

Amy Krouse Rosenthal and thoughts on kindness:



Creepy Carrots by Aaron Reynolds, illustrated by Peter Brown

We used this for alliteration - we also discussed mood.  They thought the ending was funny. 

Peter Brown discusses his inspiration for Creepy Carrots:

Chloe and the Lion by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Adam Rex

We used Chloe and the Lion for allusion.  Students love metafiction in picture books, and this is a great example.

My kids got a big kick out of watching these guys!

Speaking of metafiction, I came across this video explaining it:



Since the Nerdy Book Club 2012 Nominees came out, and we now have less than two weeks to make sure we've read as many as possible, I'm sharing them as quickly as I can!  I want my students to help me vote!  What are your favorites??