When I began teaching first grade, I immediately noticed that my students seemed do LOVE Kevin Henkes books, particularly his “mouse” books. The main characters in these books include Lilly, Chrysanthemum, Owen, and Julian.
In the years since, I’ve worked with early elementary students from many backgrounds, and they all seem to be equally entranced by Henke’s writing! Even more interesting—Henkes expanded into chapter books for students from approximately 3rd-8th grades. As I was seeking my education degree, I even did a research project on Henke’s contributions to literature for different age groups.
Another author who has also successfully accomplished this is Kate DiCamillo; her offerings range from early chapter books (Mercy Watson series) to Newbery winners such as Because of Winn Dixie and Flora and Ulysses.
I decided that I would re-read a Henkes book intended for kids of each age group. Here is my first review, a book for early readers. Owen is about a young mouse who is about to start school but won’t go anywhere with his blanket. As stained as it gets, he won’t toss it aside. This reminds me of my twin cousins, now in their 30s. They actually chewed their blankets to bits, and today they are little squares they are able to hold up to their cheeks.
Why do kiddos love Henkes so much? Obviously, young students generally delight in human-like animals as protagonists. Also, characters such as Owen and Lily have, well, spunk. They are full of personality, and their issues are relatable to kids. Henkes has received a Caldecott Medal multiple times because of the small details in his drawings that young students love to find and point out.
For any kiddo who has a precious toy or blanket they may need to leave at home, this is a perfect book. (It’s too bad my sister didn’t have this book when she was young. She still sleeps with her “Blankie” at age 43!).
Next up will be The Year of Billy Miller (also by Henkes), intended for roughly a 3rd-5th grade reading group. It is a Newbery Honor book and showcases the author’s versatility.