Today's choice is from one of my favorite author/illustrators. And it's loosely related to Earth Day (which was 2 days ago) because it's about being kind to animals :) I hope you like it :)
Written & Illustrated By: Jan Brett
Putnam Juvenile, September 2012
Suitable For Ages: 3-8
Themes/Topics: consideration, kindness, animals in their natural habitat, perspective
Opening: "On a misty, moisty morning, a young turtle stood at the edge of Lilypad Pond. Her name was Mossy."
Brief Synopsis: Mossy loves her pond. She spends so much time in the damp coolness that first moss and then a garden grow on her carapace. One day, she meets a handsome turtle named Scoot who thinks she's very beautiful, but just as they are on the verge of becoming friends, Dr. Carolina and Tory spot Mossy. "She is perfect for the museum!" declares Dr. Carolina. And so Mossy is carried away from her beloved pond and her new friend. Dr Carolina gives her everything she thinks a turtle needs, but fails to understand that Mossy already had everything she needed. It is Tory who sees that Mossy is sad. So they come up with a way to keep Mossy at the museum but also give her what her heart desires.
Links To Resources: The back jacket flap of the book tells about the real incident that inspired this story for Jan Brett. The book provides a wonderful opportunity for discussion about animals in the wild vs. animals in captivity. Why might it be good to take an animal out of its natural habitat? Why might it be bad? Have you ever captured anything (perhaps a caterpillar, a frog or toad, or a garter snake?) and kept it for a while? How long did you keep it? What happened to it? Did you put it back where you found it? A New York Times Q&A with Jan Brett about Mossy. Jan Brett Coloring Pages (Mossy isn't here yet, but she may show up!) Jan Brett Activity Pages (also no Mossy yet, but lots of other fun things to choose from!)
Why I Like This Book: Well, to start with, it's a Jan Brett :) That means a good story and gorgeous art! Add to that the fact that it's about a turtle who is a walking garden and what's not to like? :) But the part I like best is how Tory realizes that Mossy isn't happy in captivity and makes sure that she is returned to her beloved pond. It's a beautiful tale about doing what's right for someone else, and realizing when you've made a mistake (even with good intentions.)
For the complete list of books with resources, please visit Perfect Picture Books.
PPBF bloggers please be sure to leave your post-specific link in the list below so we can all come visit you! I can't wait to see what you all picked!
Have a great weekend, everyone! And maybe I'll see some of you at the SCBWI conference :)
