We Are in a Book!



Last updated Sunday, January 8, 2017

Author: Mo Willems
Date of Publication: 2010
ISBN: 1423133080
Grade Level: Kindergarten    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Jan. 2017

Synopsis: From School Library Journal:
"Make room for another satisfying episode in the escapades of lovable Elephant (aka Gerald) and Piggie. This time the best buddies star in a witty metafictional romp replete with visual gags, such as Piggie hanging from a speech bubble and Elephant blocking the author's name on the title page. Willems revs up the fun when the friends realize that someone is watching. Who can it be? Cautious Gerald asks, “A monster?” while savvy Piggie answers, “No. It is...a reader! A reader is reading us!” Mirth ensues as the delightful creatures comprehend a newfound power: “If the reader reads out loud,” they can make the reader say words. "

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Who is in the book?
•  Have you read a story with Elephant & Piggie?
•  What is your favorite book?

Vocabulary

•  word bubbles - A rounded or irregularly shaped outline, as in a cartoon or other drawing, containing words that represent a character's speech and often featuring a tail that points toward the speaker. Also called speech bubble or speech balloon.

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Who is looking at Elephant & Piggie? (you, the reader)
•  What word does Piggie have the reader say aloud? (banana)
•  On what page does the book end?
•  How does Piggie get the reader to read more about them? (read the book again)
•  Would you like to be in a book?

Craft ideas:
•  Make your own book. Volunteers can help students by folding paper in half, fourths or accordion style. Add colorful paper for the cover. Students can draw or cut out themselves, friends &/or favorite animals for the cover & on each page. You can also include a short story & words in word bubbles describing each picture.
•  Make a bookmark.
•  Check out our January craft ideas on Pinterest! https://www.pinterest.com/readingtokids/january-2017-mystery-adventure/

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!