The Pigeon Finds A Hot Dog!

Bibliography:
Willems, Mo. 2004. The Pigeon Finds A Hot Dog! Ill. by Mo Willems. Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0-7868-1869-7

Plot Summary:
A pigeon finds a hot dog and is looking forward to eating it when a duckling comes along. The duck has never had one before and asks many questions about it. The pigeon gets frustrated because he now feels guilty if he eats it and doesn't give it to the duckling. They contemplate what to do and decide to share it, half and half. They are both satisfied.

Critical Analysis:
The unique writing style of this book, instantly draws the reader in starting from the title page. It has almost a graphic novel style of writing, with word bubbles and definite sizing of text to place emphasis. It is written in conversation format, between the pigeon and duckling, with only a few words per page. Occasionally, there are no words on a page, just pictures.

The illustrations are simple and comical. Willems uses slight variations in facial features to portray the pigeon's initial excitement and delight in finding a delicious hot dog to his frustration and irritation when the duckling embarks on his treasure, as well as the duckling satisfaction when he gets his way. The cartoons are mainly soft, light and warm colors indicating calm, contentment, and contemplation. The occasional use of red and black clearly shows the infuriation of the pigeon when he feels forced to do the right thing instead of what he wants to do.

Overall, I enjoyed the book and after just this book I would confidently recommend Mo Willems children's books to anyone. It is a great way to teach morals to children and get them interested in reading using that is simple and entertaining.

Review Excerpt(s):
Publisher's Weekly: "Readers of all ages won't be able to resist miming the sly conversation..."
Susan Hepler, PhD, Children's Literature: "It's another triumph for Mo Willems and a generous serving of humor for hungry young readers"

Connections:
*This book can open a discussion about what is right and wrong.
*Children can contribute to a discussion about sharing with friends, classmates, and siblings.
*Discussions about doing the right thing even when we don't want to.
*You can lead children in role playing in a situation when sharing is necessary.