|
Dear Tabby by Carolyn Crimi,
illustrated by David Roberts
Ideas: One reading will tell you that Tabby is an expert on relationships -- and on getting the most out of life. Ask students: What topic are you an expert on? Perhaps they might like to share their wisdom by writing a fictitious letter (to themselves) and a helpful response.
Organization: This epistolary book models proper letter format. Project a few of the letters and ask, Which part is missing? (The date).
Voice: Ask students to compare the voices of the different critters. How would they describe Guy Groundhog's voice? Tabby's?
Word Choice: Carolyn Crimi is a master of word play and students will delight at her use of "cat-astrophe" as well as the name of streets (78 Drivingmecrazy Drive) and character names (Louella U. Stinque). No doubt their own writing will reflect their appreciation of Crimi's wit.
Sentence Fluency: Discuss the fluency of each animal author. You'll find that Tabby is very fluent while Betty could use some help.
Conventions: Pauline Parrot provides a perfect example of run-on sentences. Discuss the effect of run-ons on the reader - and on Tabby.
Enjoy!
| 
