Twenty Questions by Mac
Barnett, illustrated by Christian Robinson. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick Press,
2023. $18. ISBN 9781536215137
BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) – ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
The title is quite literal in
this case. The author asks twenty questions while the illustrator provides an
image for each question individually or for a pair of related questions. The last spread
includes three questions. In a couple of cases, the questions can be concretely
answered by reading the clues in the picture, but most often, the questions can
be answered only by using one’s imagination. In fact, many of the questions would
be best answered by a full story of their own. Teachers could use the spreads as
an inspiring story prompt or opportunities for students to talk with a neighbor
about what they think and why.
The genius of Barnett and Robinson, each
in their own sphere, is familiar by now and so cute and engaging here! Give this
book to a young person who is learning to read but has a million stories
already in their head. They can practice some decoding while also getting plenty
of space and encouragement to contribute their own ideas as they answer the
questions as fully as they wish. Or cuddle up with your favorite child and
enjoy where their fanciful answers take you.
--Reviewer: P.K. Foster, MLS,
elementary school teacher-librarian
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