MARCH 2001 updated June 2007
10. Themes are often of universal appeal. 9. Talented artists and illustrators are using picture books as public galleries. 8. Many issues dealt with require a maturity level beyond that of young children. 7. The short and appealing format makes picture books easy to incorporate into whole language or literature-based curricula.
The Top 10 Reasons Why Teachers and Librarians Should Provide Picture Books for Older Readers:
A RIVER RAN WILD By Lynne Cherry
FLY AWAY HOME
by Eve Bunting
6. Students with learning difficulties or those learning English as a second language will be able to make the visual/verbal connections necessary for successful reading and learning. 5. Picture books can serve as models for fine writing and excellent illustration. 4. Picture books can be used to
introduce concepts and sophisticated ideas.
WE ARE ALL IN THE DUMPS WITH JACK AND GUY By Maurice Sendak
3. Students accustomed to learning visually through television and computers will adapt naturally to the picture book format.
2. The language in picture books is succinct and rich—a terrific way to increase vocabulary. 1. Those lucky students who learn to love picture books will receive a lifetime gift and will be forever thankful.
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REFERENCES
Whitehurst, Lucinda S. Middle Grade Picture Books. School Library Journal, October 2000, 46(10):38+ www.poky.srv.net/~gale/older.html Flack, Jerry. Sophisticated Picture Books for the Middle Grades. Teaching PreK-8, May 1994, 24(8): 54+
1995 Picture Book of the Year
Australian Children’s Book Council