Author/Illustrator: Patrick McDonnell
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company, 2014
Intended Age: 3-6
Theme: Self-esteem, Anxiety
Opening Line: "This is Louie's story. Once upon a time, little Louie went skipping merrily along."
Synopsis: Louie becomes upset when jelly, peanut butter and messy crayon scrawls appear in the story.
What I like about this book: Nobody likes it when things don't go their way. But it's a fact of life that things often don't. And it isn't through the fault of planning or being prepared. Sometimes crap just happens. And Louie has to deal with this situation. This book reminds me of Pete the Cat with the added bonus of showing that Louie isn't a natural zen master. Patience, appreciation for what you have, and perseverance are skills that he (and readers!) can learn.
Resources:
- View the book trailer read on Youtube here. No spoiler alert needed for that. You can also see/hear the book read in its entirety on Youtube here (there are many versions-this is one read by a child)
- The publisher provides a five page educator's guide. As a science nerd I love the inclusion of the examination of various nut butters (chunky and smooth)!The book is also included in Hachette/Little Brown's fall activity guide.
- List what you can do when things don't go as planned- include all ideas, from anger to compromise and then discuss which ideas are the best ones for you.
- Read all of Patrick McDonnell's books (listed here). Discuss how they are alike and different.
- Examine a comic strip (preferably MUTTS!). How is the story-telling different than a book's?
Thanks again for stopping by! :)
What a perfect story for children who need to have things always go right -- life isn't like that. It's so important to learn to be flexible and go with the flow. Will have to read this to find out what Louie does. Enjoyed the video. Great book to have at home.
ReplyDeleteWe definitely could have used this book. I don't know if it's a "stage" everyone goes through but it hit hard in my house.
DeleteThis PB sounds like my nephew. He needs routine. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by, Manju. Hope he enjoys it. :)
DeleteYou had me at the title! Thanks.
ReplyDeleteIt is a perfectly imperfect world we live in. Author nailed it. :)
DeleteOh, I love the premise of this story. How to roll with the punches, as they say. Thanks for highlighting!
ReplyDeleteYes! And some days the punches land fast and furious.
DeleteI think everyone can identify with Louie! A very universal theme. LOL
ReplyDeleteI know I can use this reminder. Ommmmm.
DeleteYes, as Kella says, very universal. I also always find it funny when kids hate mess and getting messy!
ReplyDeleteSounds adorable!
ReplyDeletePerseverance is such an important skill. I really try to encourage it in my class but it comes harder for some than others. Thanks for sharing this one!
ReplyDeleteI really need to read this! Great pick! :D
ReplyDeleteI love Patrick McDonnell books. I'd heard of this book - but hadn't known about the activities. I agree, the STEM investigation into spreadability of various nut butters looks like fun.
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