Book Review #102

The Pigeon HAS to Go to School!

Author: Mo Willems
Illustrator: Mo Willems
Publisher: Hyperion Books for Children
ISBN: 978-1368046459 

Reading Level: 3-6 years old & up
 
Main Character: The Pigeon

Plot: The Pigeon is nervous about going to school and tries to convince the reader that he doesn’t need to go. He presents various excuses and displays his apprehension through humorous and exaggerated arguments        

Settings: The story primarily takes place in a variety of settings including the Pigeon's home and the imagined school environment.

Genre/Theme/Style: Children’s Picture Book / Humor / Real-Life Situations/ Back to School/Anxiety

I Gave This Book 4 Roars!  🦁🦁🦁🦁

Why 4 Roars? Mo Willems' book is engaging and funny, capturing the anxieties and excitement of starting school. The humor and relatable situation make it enjoyable for both children and adults. I love the illustrations. They are part of the humor. It's hard not to laugh at Pigeon! (But seriously, don't let the Pigeon drive the school bus!)

Critical Analysis: Mo Willems' creative illustrations and engaging dialogue provide a relatable and much needed entertaining experience for young readers headed back to school. A great opportunity to talk about the fear of the upcoming school year with kids. 

The Pigeon’s humorous objections and eventual acceptance offer a gentle introduction to the concept of school, helping to ease the dread of children about starting school.

Willems’ ability to personify the Pigeon with a childlike range of emotions and exaggerated reactions makes the book both fun and educational.

Connections: This book connects well with children who are facing starting school or any new experience. 

It can be used as a tool for parents and educators to discuss the feelings and anxieties associated with new situations. Additionally, it ties into broader themes of change and adaptation, making it a useful resource for addressing transitions in a child's life.

Be Safe! 

Happy Learning!