Thursday, May 22, 2008

Blog 4: Caldecott Award

Book Choice: "Olivia"
Author: Ian Falconer
Illustrator: Ian Falconer



























(1) What more can you say about "Olivia" other than it is a precious young read for children of all ages. This story is about young Olivia, a pig, who lives with her mommy, daddy, and brother, Ian. Like most children (pigs or not), Olivia has tons of energy that she must get out throughout the day. Olivia loves to do many things like sing, play dress-up, frighten her brother, and build sandcastles! The illustrations are done primarily in black and white with only Olivia's clothing being colored (red). This story is very relatable for many children who drive their parents crazy! A good message is found in the end when the mommy says to Olivia, "You know, you really wear me out. But I love you anyway." Adorable Olivia replies, "I love you anyway too." 



(2) Olivia is such a lovable character that it would be quite difficult for many to object to this series of books. In fact, Olivia has become so successful that many other titles have followed in her footsteps such as "Olivia Helps with Christmas," "Olivia...and the Missing Toy," and "Olivia Saves the Circus." The young piglet finds herself in a multitude of situations that she somehow always to charm her way out of without injury! 

(3) While this is the first "Olivia" book of the series, I personally believe it is the best. I have read several other Olivia stories bY Ian Falconer and none seem to capture the true spirit of a child like the original. Compared to other children's picture books, this one ranks towards the top!

Images courtesy of http://images.google.com

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