by Stacy
Here’s my selection for Perfect Picture Book Friday:
Apple Pie ABC
Author/Illustrator Alison Murray
First published in 2010 in Great Britain
Disney Hyperion, 2011
Fiction
Suitable for ages: 2-6
Theme/Topic: Alphabet, Food Cravings
Opening Spread: Apple Pie
Brief Synopsis: (from jacket flap) When an apple pie arrives piping hot on the kitchen table, a little pup does everything he can think of to get his paws on it. He ogles it. He pines for it. But will his ABC antics land him a slice?
Resources: Bake a pie. Study the ABC. If you have a dog, you are probably well versed in how animals will ogle, pine and be very determined to get food. You could watch your pets around “people” food.
Why I Like This: I found this during (what has become) my annual February study of ABC books. This was a delightful surprise. As it begins like dozens of ABC books with an apple, this one is very different. The author/illustrator uses fun verbs to get us through the alphabet and to take this fun pooch on his adventure to get a piece of this pie.
The simple storyline keeps a kiddo’s attention. Warning: Reading this before bedtime may make you want pie!
For more PPBF books, visit Susanna Leonard Hill’s Blog.
by Stacy
Here’s my Perfect Picture Book Friday choice:
Augie to Zebra An Alphabet Book!
Kate Endle & Caspar Babypants
Sasquatch Books, 2012
Fiction
Suitable for: Ages 3 and up
Themes/Topcs: Alphabet, Names
Opening Line: Augie Awards the Ape
Synopsis: (from jacket) The Beautiful Alphabet of Names: This colorful and rhythmic alphabet book illustrates the diversity of people and names. Meet Hiroshi, Sisika, Gabby, and Pasquale! Collage artist Kate Endle and musician Caspar Babypants come together again to compose a beautifully happy trip from Augie to Zebra and all the letters in between.
Link to Resources: The book contains a “Can you find these other items that start with each letter?” on the final page. You can return to each page to identify all the objects. Listen to free songs for this and other books here. Since I’m posting this at the end of the 2014 Winter Olympics, another activity would be to find Olympic competitor names to complete the alphabet. I’m guessing the alphabet can be found among the international athletes.
Why I like this book: Over the last week, I’ve read dozens of ABC books — from simple to complex lists to full blown stories. This one stood out for its simple text and lovely collage illustrations. If you enjoy paper collage work, check out Kate Endle’s website and etsy shop. I was not disappointed.
For more PPBF selections, visit Susanna Leonard Hill’s blog.
