Frances Perretti Dr.

Burk ENGL 414 19 September 2013 Caldecott Exercise Book Title: Leo the Lightning Bug Author: Eric Drachman Illustrator: James Muscarello Illustrations Pictures enable children to explore the world within their own imagination and make connections to characters and events they see depicted in books. When you help children connect with characters and events, you make the book more real to them. I think this story was successful in doing just that. The illustrations help narrate the story wonderfully. The colors and style definitely enhance the mood for each section of the story. Leos mothers character is light up by her tail constantly making her warm and inviting, his house is also pleasing in color scheme. The When Leo is sad the illustrations became dark and cold. The characters facial expressions are also very distinct and dynamic. The setting, mood and plot could be conveyed by looking at the pictures alone. Even though the drawings are stationary the charters movements are still being conveyed to the reader. The story includes a variety of techniques to convey mood and tone as well as character and plot. Text The text of this book is appropriate for children, but I think anyone below a fourth grade reading level might struggle with several words if they were to read this story alone. But the book does include an audio recording disk with a recording of the book prepared by the author. The text is enhanced by alliteration and rhyme. The text is also physically depicted to reflect the context of how it is being said. The story has a believable timeline and progression. Though the theme of practice makes perfect has been done often, this story did not feel recycled to me.

The picture and text worked well to draw me in and not seem overdone. It is a common theme in childrens books but Leos story felt authentic.

Final Thoughts Children will identify with Leo and grasp the importance of believing in themselves as they follow Leos journey to make his very own light. His charter is relatable to any child who feels somehow inadequate, which many young children often do. Adults often use the phrase when you are bigger when telling a child they are not allowed to take part in something. Leos physically small size, and struggle with his smallness, is something any child can relate to. Even the children who are the tallest or biggest in their class are still told they too small by adults. I liked that book promoted the process of natural human responses to being hurt. After the other lightning bugs tease Leo he got very upset and went to be alone, and after that he got mad, and almost gave up on his goal. He did not just blow off his hurt feelings, and move on right away like some characters seem to do. He actually showed his vulnerability and insecurities. With some realistic determination, motherly support, and a little luck, Leo eventually lights up in the night. But he realized he needed to practice. This is a very significant message for a child to hear. It is great to read about heroes and magical adventures, but some stories are wonderful because they are so real. I would definitely read this book in my future classroom.