Saturday, May 4, 2013

Review: Extra Yarn




Extra Yarn by Mac Bennett, illustrated by Jon Klassen. 2012. 40 pages. New York, NY: Balzer + Bray. 9780061953385. Caldecott Honor Book- 2013. Format reviewed: Hardcover.

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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