Panda Bear, Panda Bear, What Do You See?

Martin, Bill Jr. 2003. PANDA BEAR, PANDA BEAR, WHAT DO YOU SEE? Ill. by Eric Carle. New York: Henry Holt and Company.
Eric Carle. New York: Henry Holt and Company. ISBN 0805017585
[Suggested Grade Levels 1-3]

SUMMARY and ANALYSIS
This fun book talks about ten different endangered animals that range from the panda bear to the black panther. All the animals are shown in their natural environments. The book will end on a hopeful note that features a dreaming child seeing all the animals running free.

Bill Martin’s use of rhyme and repetition gives the book rhythm. For example the book says, “Panda bear, Panda Bear what do you see? A bald eagle flying by me.” The lilting language will delight readers. Children will catch on to the rhythm and join in the reading. The pictures consist of double page spreads that are vibrant. His use of light and dark colors and skewed proportions will catch the reader’s eye. The book provides an interesting way to learn about endangered animals. The dreaming child provides a clear message that can spark concern in older readers.

CONNECTIONS
For older children, this book can start a discussion about endangered or threatened animal species around the world. They can talk about what is being done to help the animals and think up of other ways to safeguard them.

For younger children, they can draw pictures of their favorite animals from the book. They can also write down why they do not want the animal to become extinct.

RELATED BOOKS
Other stories about endangered animals:
Dobson, David. CAN WE SAVE THEM?: ENDANGERED SPECIES OF NORTH AMERICA. ISBN 0881068225
Gibbons, Gail. GIANT PANDAS. ISBN 0823417611
Gill, Shelley. BIG BLUE. ISBN 1570913528

By Christine Cortez