BUTTON UP! WRINKLED RHYMES by Alice Schertle Pictures by Petra Mathers

Bibliography

Shertle, Alice. 2009. BUTTON UP! Ill. By Petra Mathers.  New York:  Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. ISBN 978-0-15-205050-4

Plot Summary

BUTTON UP! will make a delightful addition to any poetry collection. Author, Alice Shertle introduces her reader to fifteen critters whom are wearing what might be their favorite article of clothing. The reader will read the point of view of each fifteen articles of clothing all the way from Emily’s frilly undies to Bertie’s shoelaces. Readers will probably recognize at least one thing you or someone you know treasures.

Critical Analysis

Schertle’s text’ is perfectly complemented by illustrator Petra Mathers. Mathers's signature-style mice, bears, and alligators give the voices of each article of clothing. Perfectly illustrated spreads of art suit each character in their favorite article of clothing.

Review Excerpts

". . . these creatures have personality, exuberance and high style that perfectly match the verses. Loads of fun."--Kirkus, starred review

 "From delicately comical to downright funny, the art perfectly reflects the contagiously rhythmic, playful verse. Made for sharing, and worth learning by heart, too."--Horn Book, starred review

 ". . . these poems will give readers a new perspective on getting dressed . . . Playful spreads and spot art suit the small, snappy verses beautifully. This whimsical little volume will make a delightful addition to poetry collections."--School Library Journal, starred review

 "The whimsical illustrations pair perfectly with the wittiness of the text, and the whole is a clever and original poetic treat."--Booklist, starred review

 “. . . enjoyable sound effects . . . Tone varies from sturdy support of ‘Bob’s Bicycle Helmet’ . . . to the playfulness of ‘Wanda’s Swimsuit . . . the extraordinary precision of Mather’s [sic] delicate brush strokes result in collagelike textures and crisp solidity . . . sure to tickle youngsters.”--The Bulletin

Connections

During read aloud time demonstrate to students an individualized expressive reading voice for each character in the book.

Use this book to introduce how to write from another point of view. Provide students with an item from home and ask them to write a story or poem from that particular item's point of view.

(Book images from www.amazon.com)