Fab 4-Picture Books

Chapter 4 Picture books: Beyond Words and Illustrations

According to “The Joy of Children’s Literature” written by Denise Johnson, picture books are not just there to entertain children. In fact picture books have many more uses and are not just intended for young readers. Authors and illustrators work together in creating picture books where the pictures and the words work together to create meaning as well as entertain readers. Several studies show that “reading is a meaning making process that is supported by children’s ability to respond to visual cues.” Other types of picture books have a different purpose. Some work to teach lessons or morals to young readers, while others focus on specific concepts. In the beginning of a picture book, it is the cover that serves as a “window into the book”. It is inside of the book where the illustrations begin working with the words, depicting action, expression and even disposition. It is because of this interdependence that picture books have multiple uses and can ultimately be used at any grade level.

This great text written by Denise Johnson provides many teaching connections in multiple subject areas. “ Picture books can provide background knowledge as well as deepen and extend knowledge about a diverse range of people, places, events, concepts and experiences within any content area” (Johnson, 108) For example picture books can also be helpful when teaching nonfiction and historical contexts. A lot of these types of picture books are designed for an older audience. They can help students reach a better understanding about a topic. In addition, picture books designed for younger readers can help with teaching sequencing, re-telling and predicting.

Ling and Ting

By: Grace Lin

Ling and Ting are two identical oriental twins who everyone thinks are the same because of their identical physical characteristics. However throughout the book Ling and Ting prove that just because they are identical twins, they are not the same person. In fact they are almost exactly opposite.

The Princess and the Pea

By: Rachel Isadora

This African fairytale tells the story of a prince in search of his princess. However no

matter where he travels in Africa, he still can’t find his princess. There was something about the
different princesses that just wasn’t right. Then one stormy night there is a knock on the palace door and when the palace visitor claims to be a princess the prince determines just what to do to find out if this is true.

Ellington is not a Street

By: Ntozake Shange

This book is both a literature and illustrative tribute to the African American community of Ntozake

Shange. Through this book Ntozake reflects on the innovative men and women from her
childhood. It is a great tribute to not only these men and women but also the time period as a
whole. A time where people triumphed despite tremendous adversities.