Z is for Moose

Bingham, Kelly. 2012. Z IS FOR MOOSE. Ill. by Paul O. Zelinsky. New York: HarperCollins. ISBN 9780060799847 [Suggested Grade Levels PreK – 2]

REVIEW

As our story starts we find Zebra lining up the stars of the book. And it begins as expected: “A is for Apple.” Isn’t it always? When an overly anxious Moose decides he can’t wait for the M page, shenanigans ensue. Zebra tries his best to convince Moose to wait his turn but waiting is hard. When the M page finally arrives, featuring not Moose, but Mouse, Moose has a bit of a meltdown. Fortunately Zebra devises a compromise that restores the alphabet and his friend’s happiness.

Friendly illustrations are filled with small details as Moose tries to hijack the pages of other letters. Readers can find Moose in the most unexpected places. The colorful borders of each page are shortly abandoned by the intrusion of Moose as his eagerness builds. Moose’s hooves reach into the page, adding antlers onto annoyed snakes, while Moose’s dialog bubbles serve to clue in the reader to his wide range of emotions.

 

A fun and unique addition to the alphabet genre, this book will have students laughing out loud.

CONNECTIONS

This is not your typical alphabet book, but can be used to show how sometimes the unexpected can be fun. Create your own alphabet book using compromises similar to the one Zebra made at the conclusion. 

Z IS FOR MOOSE is also a great way to discuss how emotions can get the best of us, especially when we experience situations like waiting, disappointment and anger.

RELATED BOOKS

Check out the wide array of alphabet books available in your collection such as:

Fleming, Denise. ALPHABET UNDER CONSTRUCTION. ISBN 9780805068481

Zuckerman, Andrew. CREATURE ABC. ISBN 9780811869782

By Marianne Crandall Follis