Module 1 Picture Books-Book 1

1.BIB
LIOGRAPHY

Willems,Mo.2008.
The Pigeon Wants A Puppy.
New York,NY: Hyperion Books.
ISBN 9781423109600

2.Plot Summary
In this lively picture book,Mo Willems brings back the character of The Pigeon, a headstong and whimsical creature.The Pigeon starts with an introduction. Then, much like a petulant child,he continues to demand a puppy. From the beginning it is clear that he has confused puppy care with houseplant care. He gets his wish with hilarious results.

3. Critical Analysis
Willems's writing is whimsical and sharp-witted. The Pigeon draws the reader in by addressing him directly with escalating demands for a puppy. The pigeon declares in a gesture of self-importance, "I am a puppy-lovin' pigeon." The sheer absurdity of the statements build with a climactic flourish that will entrance children.

Willems uses bold,simple lines that create a sense of energy and movement. His witty, minimalist line drawings of the iconic pigeon and the uncluttered, clean composition of each page with its neutral or muted background , work with the rythym of the words to build momentum and anticipation. The sharp,strong typeface of the text adds to the artistry of the book by further complementing the spare drawings and emphasizing the silly emotional state of the bird with each change in font size. Much like Daffy Duck ,his better known but equally self-deluded avian counterpart,the pigeon is an unforgettable quirky character who will continue to delight children with his obviously ridiculous ways.

4.Review Excerpts
Starred review in Library School Journal : "Willems's hilariously expressive illustrations and engaging text are cinematic in their interplay. Maybe kids won't appreciate the genius behind it the way adults will, but that won't stop them from asking for this book again and again."

5.CONNECTIONS
Discuss why getting a puppy wouldn't be such a good idea. Why is pigeon's wish silly?

Gather other picture books about puppies such as the Bark,George by Jules Feiffer. Ask children to identify typical dog and other animal sounds.Feiffer's witty book about a puppy who does everything but bark will delight pre-schoolers who enjoy The Pigeon books.

Older"puppy-lovin' " readers of The Pigeon Wants a Puppy will enjoy The Perfect Puppy for Me by Jane O'Connor and Jessie Hart(illustrator).

Other books by Mo Willems:
Knuffle Bunny.ISBN-13: 978-0786818709
Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus.ISBN-13: 978-0786819881