Eve Bunting brings us the gift of social issues presented in
take-your-breath-away language. Although she has written chapter
books and some fun picture books, the bulk of her work is the issue
picture book. One favorite is The Wall in which two very real
characters pay homage to Vietnam vets. Fly Away Home brings
homelessness to a level kids can understand--yet Bunting never
oversimplifies (the bird is often kids' first understanding of
symbolism). Smoky Night (gorgeously illustrated by David Diaz)
tackles prejudice in the inner city and rioting. I could go on and
on about her brilliant work, but I promise you that you really only
need a few Buntings and you're set for life for the thoughtful and
meaningful read aloud. With no manipulation, she'll illustrate your
every teaching point.
Judy
P.S. Don't overlook Ducky just because the cover appears babyish.
She explains how reading a newspaper article about this real event
inspired her book. There's one lesson.

Share This Post | Report This Post

Next Post >>

Posts on this thread, including this one