Mo Willems

 

 

Willems, Mo. The Pigeon Wants a Puppy! New York, NY: Hyperion Books for Children, 2008.

ISBN 9781423109600

 

Summary of Plot:

The Pigeon declares that he REALLY wants a puppy, at least since last Tuesday. He talks about how he will give the puppy plenty of sunshine and water. The pigeon goes on to discuss how much he loves puppies and demands to have one at that very moment. Finally a puppy shows up and it seems maybe the pigeon did not want a puppy after all. He had not realized how big it was. He had not imagined that the teeth, claws, and slobber would be so overwhelming. The pigeon’s dream of having a puppy quickly changes and he decides to set his sights on a pet walrus.

 

Critical Analysis:

Mo Willems uses simple illustrations and minimal text as he relays a range of emotions from his pigeon character. By using dialogue that is reminiscent of many children, young readers can easily relate to the pigeon. These phrases and the personality of the pigeon entice readers to read along with the story with emotion and expression.

 

The Pigeon Wants a Puppy  is a great read aloud choice because the dialogue involves the listener. The pigeon asks questions such as “Do you even want me to be happy?” and listeners will surely give all their attention to the reader. Humor is another reason that would make this book a great read aloud. The pigeon’s personality is hilarious and children will be laughing out loud.

 

There are several books in the pigeon book series and children will surely want to check out more after they see the antics of this funny little pigeon.

 

Reviews and Awards:

 

Willems's hilariously expressive illustrations and engaging text are cinematic in their interplay. Maybe kids won't appreciate the genius behind it the way adults will, but that won't stop them from asking for this book again and again.—Kathleen Kelly MacMillan in School Library Journal

Caldecott Medal winning author

Connections:

*Discuss reading with emotion and expression. Have students take turns reading aloud pages they have selected using emotion and expression.

*Do a Mo Willems author study.

*Write the pigeon a letter explaining what he should know in order to be ready for a puppy.