Extra Yarn by Mac Bennett, illustrated by Jon Klassen. 2012. 40 pages. New York, NY: Balzer + Bray. 9780061953385. Caldecott Honor Book- 2013.
Annotation: Annabelle lives in a bleak, black and white
world. But when she finds a box with an unending supply of colorful yarn, she lovingly
knits sweaters for everything.
Reaction: In a metaphor about
happiness and self-expression, Extra Yarn tells the story of how one person can
spread happiness to many, and that happiness can't be bought and sold. The
illustrations in Extra Yarn are simple and clean, and use black and white- and
splashes of color- in a dramatic way, reminiscent of the picture books of Bill
Peet. The houses, animals, and trees covered in yarn sweaters are creative and
original, giving a sense of warm comfort in an otherwise bleak world.
Primary early literacy skill enhanced: Narrative
Skills. As Annabelle begins knitting, we are introduced to different animals
and villagers, who end up getting different items of clothes. Children will
anticipate what will happen next, even when a few curb-balls are thrown in.
Recommended ages: Preschool and up.
Format: Picture
Book.
Themes: Knitting,
Fairy Tales, Fantasy situations, Spreading Hope
Author website: www.macbarnett.com

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