Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Module #1—Intro to Children's Lit-Henry & the Buccaneer Bunnies

Henry and the Buccaneer Bunnies
by Carolyn Crimi
  • Book Summary: Henry, the son of the “bad” pirate Captain, Barnacle Black Ear, was snubbed for his reading, as he would rather read the looted books than perform pirate duties.  When a storm wrecked their ship and the pirates were marooned on a deserted island, Henry saves the day by assisting the pirates in survival techniques.  They live happily ever after visiting the nearby Easter Island Library in their newly-constructed palm-frond boat.
  • APA ReferenceCrimi, C., &; Manders, J. (2005). Henry & the buccaneer bunnies. Cambridge, Mass.: Candlewick Press.
  • My Impressions: I enjoyed this book as it helps put a fun light on reading for young and impressionable readers.  Even though it is listed in the reading list as “Books adults like that are not necessarily good books,” I find the illustrations and animal associations helpful to drawing youngsters into the significance of what the author wishes to impart—learning from what is read can be fun all at once.  The above reviewer rates the plot as “weak”, but this book is meant for K-2 students and I feel it’s at a good level for their understanding.
  • Professional Review: Lisa S. Schindler of Bethpage Public Library, NY finished her  School Library Journal book review by stating, “Although the plot is weak, the illustrations are fresh and comical, and send a clear message about the importance of reading.”
Schindler, L. (2005, November 1). December 2005 holiday book reviews. [Review of the book, Henry & the buccaneer bunnies, by C. Crimi]. School Library Journal. Retrieved from http://www.libraryjournal.com/.
  • Library Uses:  I wish I could have used this book for my summer reading program years ago, when I had a pirate/treasure theme, (I think it was “Treasure Your Library.)  I gave books/treasure away at the end to each participant—the kids loved it!  I would have compared this pirate treasure to Henry’s rich treasure he got from reading.

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