Poppleton in Winter

Rylant, Cynthia. Poppleton in Winter. Illustrated by Mark Teague. Scholastic, Inc., 2001. 48 pages. $15.00. ISBN 9780590848374. 

Summary:

Poppleton has many small adventures close to home. He is a pig who is also a good friend; gently humorous stories of friendship are what characterize this series. In this volume of wintry tales, Poppleton curates a beautiful collection of icicles on his eaves; decides to sculpt a bust of his good friend, Cherry Sue; and has a full-moon sleigh ride with all of his friends. Each chapter presents a conflict that is always resolved with humor and goodwill.

Curriculum Connections:

This series of early readers will appeal to fans of humor who will recognize the silliness in Poppleton’s dilemma’s and choices. This particular text could serve as a writing prompt: young writers could reflect on their favorite winter activities or special activities during the snowy season. This series, with the other early reader series by Rylant, Henry and Mudge and Mr. Putter and Tabby, makes for an engaging author study.

Personal Reflections:

This was the first Poppleton book I read to my three year-old son and we were both hooked! He especially delighted in examining the hardcover edition’s endpapers, where readers can look at Poppleton’s town from above. In each Poppleton story, a careful observer can spy Poppleton and all of his friends from this vantage point---even the tiny mouse, Hudson.

Awards:

Age/Interest Range:

PreK-8

Genre/Themes:

Early Reader, Friendship, Humor, Winter

Read-Alikes:

Mr. Putter and Tabby and Henry and Mudge series (Rylant), the Fox series (Marshall).