Paula
Broyles’ Book Critique
I am writing a critique on the book: 14
Cows for America. It was written by
Carmen Agra Deedy and illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez. It was published by Peachtree/Atlanta in
2002. This non-fiction book grabs the
reader’s attention right off with captivating illustrations and text. The setting of the book is in Kenya,
Africa. The story focuses on a true gift
given to America from the African people after one of the worst disasters our
country has ever seen. The book does a
very good job using explanations throughout the text to ease the understanding
of the vocabulary choice. I think a
glossary would be helpful for young readers.
The pictures are very authentic and make you feel like you are in Kenya
with the characters of the story. It is
a true treasure and I believe pays attention to the cultural differences in
Kenya and America. I could see using
this book with elementary age children through highschoolers. In order to get the true significance of the
book make sure your read the epilogue at the end of book.
Loved reading this book with you, because of its rich illustrations. People should be aware that the illustrations in the book are the type that look like the motion is happening--many of the pictures occur from the perspective of the young man returning to his village--the arms of his mother look like they are about to hug "me" the reader, too!
ReplyDeleteI would like to add a connection--the book connects with September 11th events. It deals with a heavy topic in an appropriate way, so it might be nice to use around that type of year. Is this a topic that comes up in your classroom? Would you be willing to discuss it with young children? Because this book would be appropriate to help both young children and H.S. aged children to view an event? One could also use the book to connect with other world events--such as a tornado, tsunami, or earthquake in another country. We can discuss why we give and why we mourn for these people, even when they are so far away.