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.
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| Super Reader Bookmark |
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.
