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Reading Rockets' children's literature expert, Maria Salvadore, brings you into her world as she explores the best ways to use kids' books both inside — and outside — of the classroom.

Is it a duck or a rabbit?

March 16, 2009

Years ago I was in a first grade classroom introducing new words to a small group. The word we were examining was "ditch."

I remember a little boy, Paul, recognized the word and was eager to share. I also remember the ooohs of the other kids when Paul replaced the "d" sound for a "b." (We wound up sounding out the word and coming up with a synonym for a trench, by the way.)

I was reminded of Paul when I recently came across a book entitled Duck! Rabbit! (Chronicle) by Amy Rosenthal and Tom Licktenheld.

It could be a book that helps develop visual discrimination or respect for different ways of seeing things or it could even suggest an optical illusion. Regardless, the book is fun and perhaps shows the potential delight in developing whatever.

In this seemingly simple book, two distinct voices see the same image quite differently for a rollicking experience. Take a look at the Duck! Rabbit! book trailer and you'll get the picture, literally.

Then get a copy of the book from your library or bookstore and tell me what YOU and the kids in your life see.

A book like this makes recognizing the difference between letters and sights all around more fun than, well, a herd of rabbits or a raft of ducks!

 

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About Maria

Maria Salvadore
Washington, DC
Maria is an adjunct faculty member at the University of Maryland, reviewer for School Library Journal and Capitol Choices, and former member of the American Library Association's Notable Children's Book Committee.
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