Friday, October 25, 2013

PPBF: The Wednesday Surprise

Today's Perfect Picture Book Friday pick

The Wednesday Surprise
Written by Eve Bunting
Illustrated by Donald Carrick

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 1989,
Fiction, ages 4-8, 540L

Themes:
Reading, Confidence, Grandparents

Opening:
"I like surprises. But the one Grandma and I are planning for Dad's birthday is the best surprise of all."

Synopsis:
Every Wednesday, Grandma rides the bus across town to plan a birthday gift with seven year-old Anna. Anna's dad drives a truck, but he'll be home for his birthday on Saturday. Anna can't wait for Dad's surprise, but with all the other party preparations, it will be difficult to get enough practice before the big day.

What I Love:
A girl, a grandma, and a bag of books. This story of family and perseverance makes me smile and cry. Though over twenty years old, the story is as fresh as if it were published in the 21st Century. Donald Carrick's gorgeous watercolors enhance the detail of Eve Bunting's masterful text. Don't miss this charming story which comes to an unexpected, yet satisfying end.

Note: Sadly, this book was one of Donald Carrick's last. It was published the year he passed away.

Bonus:
Super Reader Bookmark
1. Houghton Mifflin offers a discussion guide for teachers. Here is a close reading lesson for common core standards, and an excellent synthesis activity to teach critical thinking using this book.
2. Make your own bookmarks and book bag, then head to the library, of course!
3. Whip up some bookish snacks.
4. Surprise a loved one with a pop-up birthday card or make one using Roberts Sabuda's templates.
5. Check your community center or library for opportunities to give the gift of literacy. Spend time reading with kids, challenged learners, or ***SPOILER ALERT*** ESL students.


Check out all the recommended titles for Perfect Picture Book Friday for October 25, 2013.
Thanks to Susanna Leonard Hill.
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20 comments:

  1. Stacy S. JensenOctober 25, 2013 at 4:05 AM

    We'll look for this one in our library. Thanks for highlighting it.

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    Replies
    1. Joanne RobertsOctober 25, 2013 at 10:55 AM

      It's my pleasure. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

      Delete
  2. WendyOctober 25, 2013 at 10:34 AM

    Love this book! Eve Bunting is a masterful writer of books with emotional resonance.

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    1. Joanne RobertsOctober 25, 2013 at 10:56 AM

      I've read lots of Eve's longer work and loved it all. This is one of her best picture books. Thanks for stopping by.

      Delete
  3. Beverly SnedecorOctober 25, 2013 at 10:47 AM

    This looks wonderful. I'm going to check it out ASAP... my kids always loved books where characters overcame a challenge to do something good for someone they love. It's a different kind of triumph.

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    1. Joanne RobertsOctober 25, 2013 at 10:57 AM

      I would be interested to know your kids' reaction to this story. The clever ending is usually a surprise. I hope you like it.

      Delete
  4. catherinemjohnson.comOctober 25, 2013 at 2:28 PM

    Perseverance is an almost tool to have on your belt, I'll have to read this to my kids. Great list of activities too.

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    1. Joanne RobertsOctober 25, 2013 at 4:07 PM

      Thanks! We are going to make that reading list book mark for the next quarter of AR.

      Delete
  5. AnonymousOctober 25, 2013 at 2:49 PM

    The cover makes me want to snuggle up with books right now!

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  6. AnonymousOctober 25, 2013 at 4:21 PM

    I love surprises! I guess I'll have to find the book and see what is in store for Dad! I'm guessing it has something to do with books and reading? That would be a good one. Thanks for sharing the book and all the good links!

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    1. Joanne RobertsOctober 26, 2013 at 9:51 AM

      Thanks, Rhythm. Qwincy, our lab, doesn't like surprises. He is always putting his nose in to discover secrets (particularly if they involve food.)

      Delete
  7. JoannaOctober 25, 2013 at 4:55 PM

    Eve Bunting is a fabulous writer. This sounds adorable and timeless.

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    1. Joanne RobertsOctober 26, 2013 at 9:52 AM

      Timeless, but also timely. Literacy is an ongoing crusade.

      Delete
  8. Patricia T.October 25, 2013 at 5:10 PM

    Can't go wrong with Eve Bunting. I checked out a bunch of her books last summer. Didn't read this one, though. Will have to check it out to see what happens. Love your activities.

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    1. Joanne RobertsOctober 26, 2013 at 9:53 AM

      I hate to leave everyone hanging, but I also hate to give away a plot twist. Thanks for your comments.

      Delete
  9. Jarm Del BoccioOctober 25, 2013 at 9:30 PM

    Donald's illustrations look familiar for some reason. Glad it is still in print to honor him!

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    1. Joanne RobertsOctober 26, 2013 at 9:55 AM

      Donald Carrick was very prolific. He and his wife made a great team. You may know him from the Patrick's Dinosaurs books, but my favorite of his is Moss Gown, a Bayou Cinderella.

      Delete
  10. patientdreamerOctober 29, 2013 at 1:08 PM

    Beautiful story and beautiful illustrations. So heartwarming. Thanks, Joanne.

    ReplyDelete

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