Books About Reading

Module 1: Introduction to Children's Literature
August 31-September 6, 2009

The Plot Chickens
by: Mary Jane and Herm Auch
Kindergarten-Grade 2

Summary:

This imaginative, humorous, and fun book dares the reader to follow his or her dreams and never give up. It features the plucky chicken Henrietta who loves to read, and decides one day that she would like to become an author and write her own books. She finds a book on writing basics at her local library and sets out to become published. Although several people try to dissuade her from her goals, she perseveres and proves that anyone can achieve anything if they only set their minds to it.

My Impressions:

I absolutely loved this book. I found myself laughing aloud several times at the antics of Henrietta and her aunts. I love the message that it sends to its readers. Not only does this book teach the basics of great story writing, but it also encourages reading, utilizing the library, and pursuing your aspirations even when everyone else tells you to give up.

Reviews:

From School Library Journal:
Kindergarten-Grade 2- "...The illustrations, a combination of oil paints and digital technology, are bold and colorful. The pictures are busy, with Henrietta at her typewriter while her friends cavort around her. There are imagined scenes in cloud shapes, word balloons, and jokes aplenty. A droll chicken with a repeating line adds to the humor. This offering works on two levels. It's a funny picture book that could be used as a manual on writing.—Ieva Bates, Ann Arbor District Library, MI"

Lesson Plans:

Create a story writing contest where the winners get to have their stories inexpensively bound or 'published.' These stories could then be read aloud at an awards ceremony or story time. The Plot Chickens book should be read to students in preparation for the contest since it discusses important aspects of how to actually write an interesting story.


Auch, Mary Jane & Herm Auch. The Plot Chickens. New York: Holiday House, 2009.

Bates, Ieva. "Preschool to Grade 4". School Library Journal. August 30, 2009 .