DiCamillo,
Kate, and K. G. Campbell. Flora & Ulysses: the
illuminated adventures. Somerville, Mass: Candlewick Press, 2013.
Print.
ISBN: 076366040X
Audience: Ages 8-12, Grade 3-6
Summary:
Flora Belle Buckman loves comic books and superheroes, but she doesn’t believe
much in happy endings. When a squirrel is accidently vacuumed up by her
neighbor, Flora steps in and rescues it with amazing consequences. The squirrel
has super powers – Ulysses is strong, can fly, and writes poetry! Flora helps
protect Ulysses from his nemesis, experiences some amazing adventures, and
discovers hope for her world along the way.
Strengths: There are some laugh out loud funny parts to
this story and the amazing illustrations would appeal to comic book lovers. The
message is an endearing one of hope, and DiCamillo has created some
unforgettable characters.
Weaknesses:
At times, the book could become too quirky for some readers. The
parents’ decision to kill the squirrel could be upsetting to kids who are
animal lovers. I find it difficult to pinpoint a good reading level for this
book – while the illustrations and style would most appeal to a younger reader,
the vocabulary is often very advanced and would be most appropriate for an
older one. I think it would be an excellent read aloud or a recommendation for
an advanced younger reader.
Uses: The
characters in this book are quirky and memorable and would easily lend
themselves to a character study (CCSS ELA:RL.3 Grades K-6). The vocabulary is
advanced (CCSS ELA:L.4 Grades 3-5) and the writing style is unique (CCSS
ELA:W.3 Grades K-6). The poetry could be used to study poetic style (CCSS ELA:RL.10
Grades 1-6). An art teacher could use this as an example of illustration and
cartoon.
Read-alikes:
·
Mercy Watson – Kate DiCamillo
(From the same author, the book series about a pet pig who loves cars, trick or
treating, and especially toast.)
·
Lulu and the Brontosaurus
and
Lulu Walks the Dogs- Judith Viorst (Feisty
heroine Lulu is determined to get what she wants. Illustrated novel.)
·
Diary of a
Wimpy Kid – Jeff
Kinney (Illustrated novel series about a boy’s trials in school.)
·
Clementine- Sara
Pennypacker (Illustrated novel series about a girl who is always into some kind
of mischief.)
Awards:
Newbery Medal
Parents’ Choice Gold
Publisher’s Weekly Best Books
Texas Bluebonnet Award
Other:
Starred reviews in Kirkus, Booklist, School Library Journal, and
Publisher’s Weekly
Resources for Librarians & Teachers:
Teacher’s Guide: http://www.candlewick.com/book_files/076366040X.btg.1.pdf
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