pickInterrupting Chicken and the Elephant of Surprise by David Ezra Stein (2018). The story follows Little Chicken as he discovers “the element of surprise“ in stories, but misinterprets it as “the elephant of surprise.“ He argues that every story needs an elephant. The bright pictures add to the appeal, with exaggerated reactions and elephants appearing in odd places. Aside from the humor, the book provides a fun introduction to literary themes.
I can use this book to teach about story elements. I can engage students in exploring the idea of surprise in writing.
'Don't you feel sorry for the elephant, Papa? All alone, waiting for someone to find him. Read another story and we'll find that poor elephant.'
so-soThis book is a picture book that was published in 2010 and it belongs in the humorous fiction genre. It was also a Caldecott Honor book. This story follows a little red chicken who constantly interrupts her Papa's bedtime stories, eager to save the characters from danger before the story ends.
