Friday, September 28, 2012

Perfect Picture Book Fridays: The Secret Room


Here we are again, for another Perfect Picture Book Friday, Susanna Hill's brainchild. For information about the series, and how to participate, click here.


As I have mentioned before, my focus will be on Historic Fiction and Non-Fiction picture books, so, next in line is:








Title:  The Secret Room
Author: Uri Shulevitz
Publisher: Farrar Straus Giroux
Copyright Date: 1993

Ages: 7-12

Themes: Wisdom, Middle East Culture, Honesty, Humility

Synopsis (from book jacket):

While traveling through the desert, a king meets a man.  "Why is your head gray, and your beard black?" the king asks.  This question, and the man's clever answer, begins journey that leads him to a handsome reward and the answer to an even more puzzling question found within a secret room.
This wry, thoughtful story illustrated with jewel-tone tempera painting is sure to be a folktale favorite.

I like it because:

Any picture book with a link to history is fascinating to me!  This one not only tells a clever tale, but the jewel-tone tempera paintings lend to the Middle Eastern feel. The author/illustrator has won a Caldecott Medals for his previous works, and readers have no trouble seeing why.  I will be reviewing more of his books in future posts.

Some helpful links:


Middle East Culture:

http://k12east.mrdonn.org/MiddleEast.html

The Desert:

 http://www.atozteacherstuff.com/Themes/Deserts/

Wise or Foolish:

 http://www.sermons4kids.com/wise_or_foolish_group_activities.htm


Here's a Bonus:


A "How-to" book by Uri Shulevitz Himself!!


Writing With Pictures: How to Write and Illustrate Children's Books





I am enjoying this journey through the author/illustrator's world.  Definitely full of illustrations and examples for anyone interested in pursuing children's book writing and illustrating!


14 comments:

  1. Having just attended a SCBWI conference, this looks like a stand-out book. And I love the other book you recommended!

    ~Debbie

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    1. Thanks, Debbie...I love to read tips and insights from established authors. It's inspiring! And, I look forward someday to joining you at SCBWI...

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  2. This sounds great, Jarm! Another Uri Shulevitz - can't go wrong there! :) - and I love folk tales, and picture books for the slightly older young reader, so all around a great choice in my book! Thanks for sharing this one!

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    1. You are welcome, Susanna....I'm definitely concentrating on books for older children. Three cheers for PPBFs!

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  3. Jarm, this book looks like a gem. I love stories about the middle east. The tips and insights add to the book's appeal. I can imagine the illustrations are beautiful. Kids need to be exposed to more of these important authors.

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    1. I couldn't agree with you more, Patricia! I do love his illustrations. Thanks for stopping by...

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  4. This is a wonderful book, Jarm! And I appreciate the resource and activity list. :) I've always loved folktales...and it looks like the illustrations are fantastic. Thank you for sharing this with us!

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    1. You are welcome, Vivian. I'm not sure if I enjoy Uri's story or illustrations more...they are both winners!

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  5. Thanks for this, Jarm. Until your posts, I'd not been aware of Uri Shulevitz -- PPBF is such a great way to expand one's horizons!

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    1. You are right, Beth, and I'm so glad I've decided to join you! Thanks for stopping by...

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  6. Beautiful story Jarm, thankyou. Love the vibrant colourful illustrations. Anything folklore or cultural theme is right up my ally!

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    1. You are welcome...yes, those are among my favorite stories! Thanks for your comments...I hope to post some others of the same genre later on.

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I would love to have you comment...thanks!

Journey into the Promised Land

Journey into the Promised Land
From Egypt to Israel