Title: Nope, A Tale of First Flight
Author & Illustrator: Drew Sheneman
Publisher: Viking, 2017
Ages: 3-5
Themes: baby birds, first flight, trying new things, courage
Opening:
Synopsis:
Nope tells the nearly wordless story of a baby bird who isn’t so sure it’s a good idea to leave the nest, and Don’t Eat That! is about a misguided bear looking for a post-hibernation snack. (Goodreads)
Why I like this Book:
Imagine all the terrifying things you face when you are a baby bird peering out of the nest contemplating your first flight. Wouldn’t your response to Mama Bird be, “Nope?” The cartoonish Mama and baby bluebirds and the lead up to and moment of baby’s first solo flight are full of childish exaggeration and fear and Mama’s sneaky wisdom. Sure to be a winner for the young set. Basically two words and some fab, bright suspenseful illustrations.
Resources/Activities:
Question for young readers: What was your big scary solo flight?
Find more “Perfect Picture Book Friday” reviews at Susanna Leonard Hill’s blog HERE.
In my 20's, with only my guitar and a rucksack, I wandered the continents, immersing myself in the lives of some wonderful people, projects and stories, which changed the way I view my responsibility to others and this earth. Right now I'm a European transplant in the US who writes books for children and young adults. Stories can help us not only navigate our world but can connect us to others, and allow us to inspire and help each other. I believe that equity and empathy should be at the core of our all actions, words, and stories.
I am also a school librarian and I get a kick out of book-matchmaking! And I use the pronouns she/her.
I have that book in the pile I’ve signed out from the library! Wordless books are great to read with my students, to help them learn to “read” the pictures.
Yes, they are great for developing these skills.
What an absolutely beautiful book. I love that the words are spare because the illustrations tell it all. It also gives kids the opportunity to imagine the story. This would make a great gift book!
I think it has broad appeal, Pat.
I love this book. Bought it the moment I say it.
Yes, one to add to your collection for sure.
Great choice, Joanna! Adding it to my must-read list. And I love your suggested activity…what a wonderful question for parents or teachers to ask kids. 🙂
Thanks, Vivian, it also helps them start to understand metaphor.
Love the title!
Much better than no!
Gorgeous illustrations, wow! The title sure is an attention grabber. 🙂
I love the birds’ expressions.