On Hand: I Stink by Kate McMullen (2002) or any other picture books that demonstrate clear voice, both to the ear and to the eye (in the font). (See the list below for more recommendations on books that play with font.)
Mini-Lesson: Read I Stink with much expression. After reading, show students that the author not only wrote with a fun, rowdy, He-Man voice, she also showed voice in the font. Allow students to make observations of the print. Ask, "What did the author and the book designer do with the print?" (Possible responses: "At times it's bold," "It stretches," "It bounces up and down.") Ask, "Why do you think they made these choices?" Encourage students to read the words in unusual fonts with you and to use their voices in these very distinct ways.
Extension: Suggest that students play with their own print to emphasize their voices.
The following books demonstrate voice in both the language and in the font design. What a concrete way to help our youngest learners grow in their understanding of voice!
A Visitor for Bear by Bonny Becker (2008).
Big Bad Bunny by Franny Billingsley (2008).
Henry and the Buckaneer Bunnies by Carolyn Crimi (2005).
Holly's Red Boots by Francesca Chessa (2008).
How to Be a Good Dog by Gail Page (2006).
for primary teachers
