Tuesday, February 28, 2017

ReFoReMo Day 2: Matthew Winner Obsesses Over Words

By Matthew C. Winner

A story told entirely in a dialect of bug. A bear who identifies as a bunny. A concussed knight who struggles to recall the details of his own tale.

I am obsessed with language, and the way an author chooses to tell his or her story can make or break the whole thing for me. I think little of the choice to rhyme the text or not. It doesn’t matter to me if the main character tells the story or if the entire text is recounted through an all-knowing narrator. I don’t give word count a second thought. What matters most to me are the words so carefully selected to speak forth the story.

Here is a set of ten books that, for different reasons, each appeal to me for the language used to employ the story.


1. Cat Knit by Jacob Grant


Cat loves Girl. Girl brings home Yarn. Cat and Yarn become fast friends. Girl plays with Yarn. Yarn returns changed (into a sweater).

 READ FOR: Sparse, matter-of-fact text gives insight to Cat’s perception of events.

2. Ooko by Esme Shapiro

A fox named Ooko seeks to be loved by a Debbie (Ooko’s word for all humans), but finds they might not be what he’s looking for after all.

 READ FOR: The voice of the confident and naive narrator making names for all he observes.


3. Bunnybear by Andrea J. Loney; pictures by Carmen Saldaana

A bear identifies as a bunny and, after facing rejection from his peers, seeks company among other bunnies.

 READ FOR:  The wordsmithing on character names (Bunnybear, Grizzlybun) and how much weight the name can carry.


4. Worm Loves Worm by J. J. Austrian; illustrated by Mike Curato

Worm loves worm, and so they decide they should be married. Their friends are worried about details, but details are only that when you love another.

 READ FOR:  The slight change in the book’s chorus and how it gives insight into the change experienced by the supporting cast.


5. They All Saw a Cat by Brendan Wenzel

A cat is observed by all whom it passes, each offering up a new perspective on the same subject.

 READ FOR: The deceptively simple text and consistent, repeated structure of each stanza.

6. The Airport Book by Lisa Brown


A family travels to and through an airport on their way to a new destination.

 READ FOR:  The descriptive, straight-forward language sets a tone that while the experience may be new, there are no surprises and nothing to be afraid of.


7. The Day I Became a Bird by Ingrid Chabbert; illustrated by Raul Nieto Guridi


A lovesick boy constructs a bird costume to impress the object of his affection.

 READ FOR:  The sweet, heart-spoken language, both innocent and sincere, that hides nothing before the reader.


8. The Forgetful Knight by Michelle Robinson and Fred Blunt


An unreliable narrator struggles to recount the story of a knight who set out to challenge a dragon.

 READ FOR:  The fast-moving, metered text that asks a lot of questions and responds with often unpredictable answers.


9. Don't Cross the Line! by Isabel Minhos Martins; illustrated by Bernardo Carvalho

By order of the general, a guard is tasked with not allowing any member of an ensemble cast to cross over the gutter of the book to the other side.

READ FOR: The dialogue of the crowd and the ways in which each unique voice contributes to the story.

10. Du Iz Tak? by Carson Ellis

A group of bugs build a fort in the leaves of a growing flower, witnessing time pass and all of their labor returning to the earth.

READ FOR:  The story is told entirely through the dialogue of the characters, who, in turn, only speak in a bug language. How readers are able to understand the story is a testament to language itself.


Matthew is giving away a 30 minute Skype session on a topic of your choosing. Brainstorm story ideas. Critique a manuscript. Develop a personalized recommended reading list to support your ReFoReMo experience. You name it. To be eligible for the drawing at the conclusion of ReFoReMo, please comment on this post and strive to read mentor texts regularly.


Matthew Winner is an elementary library media specialist in Elkridge, Maryland. He is the co-founder and content director of All The Wonders, a children’s literature website and more, and host of the All The Wonders podcast. Matthew is the author of Asha Went Walking, a webcomic illustrated by Lorian Tu-Dean. Connect with Matthew on Twitter at @MatthewWinner or online at MatthewCWinner.com.




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223 comments:

  1. Debbie AllmandFebruary 28, 2017 at 1:30 AM

    Lovely choices of books for me to read. Thanks for you thought provoking post. I look forward now to studying language on a more thoughtful level. Thanks again.

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  2. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 2:21 AM

    I've heard it said that one of the most creative things human beings do is to invent and play with language. I just read "Iz Du Tak?" And it instantly became one of my all time favorites. I love the gibberish. I'll never again be able to look at a ladder (or think about one) without giggling and saying "ribble!" It inspires me to start gibbling my worglops too.

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  3. Jennifer BroedelFebruary 28, 2017 at 2:23 AM

    This post is a neat reminder to really appreciate the very words chosen to make each book unique. I'll keep this concept in mind as I continue my ReFoReMo research, and as I fine-tune my own manuscripts for submission. It was a pleasure meeting you at the SCBWI conference this year, and I'm always excited to meet a fellow Marylander. I keep telling myself to write a MD book...

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  4. JustanotherbipedFebruary 28, 2017 at 2:29 AM

    I'm very excited by these selections and can't wait to research some new material. Thank you!

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  5. Linda H.February 28, 2017 at 3:41 AM

    Nice choices. And there are 2 I hadn't even heard of so I need to go out and find them.

    Thanks

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  6. Katelyn AronsonFebruary 28, 2017 at 5:51 AM

    Thanks Matthew! I so agree that words should be wielded well! It's not because it's a "picture" book that we can shirk on the text. Au contraire! Picture books are illustrated poems, after all.

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    1. Matthew C. WinnerMarch 2, 2017 at 11:33 AM

      Ah! The wonder that is the picture book. It is truly an art form!

      Delete
  7. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 6:05 AM

    It's true, every word counts! Thank you, Matthew!

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  8. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 6:29 AM

    What an amazing, fabulous prize! And post! Thank you, Matthew!

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  9. Linda MitchellFebruary 28, 2017 at 6:49 AM

    Fantastic post! I am a middle school librarian....these books are good for older kids too when teaching.

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  10. Michael KargFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:06 AM

    Thanks for your carefully chosen words, Matthew!

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  11. Mel SchuitFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:08 AM

    As always, Matthew hits the nail on the head! Great recommendations!

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  12. LizFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:25 AM

    Great thoughts on these texts. I think it's easy to get so caught up in trying to tell our story that sometimes we forget to slow down and savor each word.

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  13. Barbara CairnsFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:26 AM

    Loved this post with its short blurbs on which books to look for to find specific things in the craft of writing. Thank you, Matthew.

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  14. Elizabeth CurryFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:39 AM

    Thank you for the post! Great reminder on the importance of the words we choose.

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  15. Allison AlleyFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:45 AM

    Excellent book choices (some of which are new to me)! Your post is an important reminder of how beautiful our language can be. Thanks for sharing with us!

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    1. Matthew C. WinnerMarch 3, 2017 at 11:26 AM

      My favorite books are the one's who don't take language for granted

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  16. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:54 AM

    Thank you Matthew. A lot to review.

    Sue D'Agosti

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  17. Leah SchankeFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:55 AM

    A thought-provoking and inspiring post.This brings us wordsmiths to a whole new level. Thank you!

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  18. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:56 AM

    What?! Talk to Matthew Winner about books?! How fun would that be?!

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  19. Sherry HowardFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:57 AM

    What a fascinating range of books. I can't wait to find them all. And Matthew Winner is wonderful, just gotta say!

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  20. Juli CavenyFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:07 AM

    A wonderful choice of books today, Matthew! I already love so many of these and will strive to find the others that I have not read yet! Great post. Thanks for sharing your time, knowledge and love of books!

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  21. Rita LorraineFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:07 AM

    Love this list of books, especially Cat Knit. I just hope I can find these in my library. Thanks Matthew!

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  22. Lourdes HeuerFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:11 AM

    Yes! I love that Cat thinks Yarn is a "guest." Or oh. The crushing blow of "Rup furt" in Du Iz Tak?, followed by the spread with the bird, so much larger in proportion. Those details are everything.

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  23. ChristineFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:17 AM

    A great list - just the right words are everything.

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  24. Anita JonesFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:28 AM

    I love this list of books....looking forward to reading these with the outlined descriptions you've provided! Thanks Matthew!

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  25. FGM KalavritinosFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:40 AM

    Words are the colors we use as artists. The books mentioned here combine those words in amazing ways!

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  26. Tina ChoFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:40 AM

    I'm looking forward to reading this list of books, most all are new to me.

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  27. Rebecca CFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:44 AM

    Can't wait to read some of these recommendations! Thanks very much!

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  28. Andrea MackFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:46 AM

    These are great selections! We have such a variety of words available to tell our stories -- this reminds me how fun it is to experiment and play!

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  29. saputnamFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:51 AM

    Great post, Matthew! Thank you for giving us a peek at why these picture books work by looking at the language used in each one

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  30. Manju HowardFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:55 AM

    Thanks for sharing, Matthew! I need to add "The Forgetful Knight" and "Don't Cross the Line!" to my list.

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  31. RobinFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:00 AM

    Wat great variety of Querky voices! Thank you.

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  32. Kathy HalseyFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:10 AM

    Hi, Matthew. As a former school librarian, I am intrigued by your list. Language play is what I love best, too, about books and what I strive for in my own writing. I must admit, there are a few books today that are new to me. TY.

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  33. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:11 AM

    I read THEY ALL SAW A CAT twice and one of the thoughts I came away with all ther research that went into to that book maybe not so much for the words but for the illustrations. which we all know carry and tells so much of the rest of the story. thank you for your list.

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  34. Joana PastroFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:15 AM

    The right words can make a story shine. Thanks for your insights!

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  35. Robin Brett WechslerFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:15 AM

    This is a great list of books, Matthew, and I love your thoughtful comments about each one and what they uniquely have to offer. (Separately, I'm a huge fan of the All the Wonders podcasts so thank you for those too!)

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  36. KFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:19 AM

    Matthew - I love this list and the insightful analysis of each one. This reminds me very much of your approach to books on ALL THE WONDERS, digging deeper into the text and finding exactly that which makes it sing. Thank you.

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  37. Virginia Law ManningFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:22 AM

    Wow! I'm humbled by this post, realizing how much I can still learn. Matthew, your post shows me how confidently you read picture books, able to take away what makes them great. I'm going to keep my eye out for future conferences where you are speaking! BTW--I live in Eastern PA and our chapter is offering a PAL discount for our spring retreat at the Highlights Foundation this year and I believe PAL members have the opportunity to sell their books. If you attend, I'd love to talk to you there!

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  38. Val McCammonFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:27 AM

    Great reading suggestions and how to watch specific language choices make an enormous difference. Thanks, Matthew!

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  39. Sue HeavenrichFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:27 AM

    Love, love, love Cat Knit... still trying to puzzle out the bug language -as an entomologist you think I'd understand it. But what fun.

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  40. BoldWriterFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:31 AM

    You are spot on in assessment in these books Matthew. Made me happy to read this post and realize I got out of them what was intended from the author and illustrator. Two of the books I have not read yet and as soon as they come in from the library, I will. Thank you for sharing this with us.

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  41. Cindy CFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:33 AM

    Bravo Matthew! These are great comps for writers at all levels. And some of my favorite titles! Thank you,
    Cindy

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  42. Jane BaskwillFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:33 AM

    Thank you for the great insight on what to watch for in these very unique picture books. I often think what a simple idea but then in the unpacking realize how brilliant the idea is and how challenging to get it just right!

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  43. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:35 AM

    Thanks for the reminder that the way the author says something and the words they choose matter as much as what they are saying.

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  44. luzdelmesFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:40 AM

    Hello Matthew, I appreciate the insights. It made mre think how important words are to make each book unique.

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  45. MK ReskFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:42 AM

    This is a wonderful post, Matthew. Thanks so much for sharing a few new-to-me picture books that play so wonderfully with words and perspective.

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  46. Jenna FeldmanFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:49 AM

    Thank you for the list of wonderful books (some new, some already beloved) and for the succinct explanation of why the writing is compelling.
    -jenna feldman

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  47. Dee EnglishFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:56 AM

    This list made me smile. Thank you for your recommendation to focus on words.

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  48. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:01 AM

    Many new titles to explore. Love your podcast!

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  49. Cathy L MurphyFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:08 AM

    Thanks for sharing these books and your great insight, Matthew.

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  50. Heather StigallFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:10 AM

    Fantastic mentor text suggestions! Thanks for sharing your insight into using the "just right" words to fit the tone and message of the story.

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  51. Mary WarthFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:15 AM

    Thanks for the great reading suggestions! I also appreciate the focus on language.

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  52. AngelaFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:17 AM

    I've read a few of these, but can't wait to re-read with the "read for" focus in mind. Thank you for the list!

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  53. RitaFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:18 AM

    Matthew, I always enjoy your recommendations. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts on these titles, a few of which I plan to read today!

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  54. Sherri Jones RiversFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:18 AM

    So much fun and so clever. I remember his webinar was OUTSTANDING.

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  55. Debra DaughertyFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:19 AM

    Wonderful book choices. I'm excited to check them out. Thanks, Matthew, for sharing.

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  56. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:24 AM

    Thanks for the great advice! Worm Loves Worm is now one of my new favorites. These are great recommendations. Also, looks like we are neighbors. I live in Columbia. :-) I couldn't find Ooko or Don't Cross the Line in the HoCo Library system. Any suggestions on other places to look?

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  57. Ms. G.February 28, 2017 at 10:25 AM

    I wasn't able to get a copy of "Don't Cross the Line" but clearly I can't let my library not owning a copy stand it my way!

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  58. ptnozellFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:30 AM

    Love your focus on language and voice, Michael. Can't wait to read, and in many cases, reread, your book selections and think about the language & voices that caught your attention.

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  59. Shari Della PennaFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:42 AM

    Thanks for your insight into the importance of word choices and the fun in writing (and reading) them.

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  60. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:43 AM

    Great selection of books! Thanks for sharing.

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  61. Lori AFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:51 AM

    Awesome list! Can't wait to read those that are new to me. Thanks, Matthew!

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  62. Lauren BarbieriFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:54 AM

    Thank you for the great reading list and concise commentary on a strength of each story!

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  63. Lauri FortinoFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:54 AM

    Matthew has such wonderful insight into what makes a great picture book. We can definitely learn a lot from him.

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  64. Dee KnabbFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:57 AM

    Your recommendations rock, Matthew. I also noticed some of these titles are written from an unexpected POV, a good opportunity to think out of the box. Thanks

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  65. Lily LaMotteFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:00 AM

    I'm looking forward to reading these books. I love Worm Loves Worm.

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  66. GabiFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:03 AM

    I adore They All Saw a Cat. Can't wait to read the others! Thank you!

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  67. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:06 AM

    Matthew, love your one sentence synopsis of each book. But didn't know you had your own. Is it available yet? I couldn't find it on amazon, library, or goodreads.

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  68. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:10 AM

    I'm looking forward to checking out these books and thinking more about words. "Words are the best toys" - Me

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  69. David McMullinFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:13 AM

    Thanks, Matthew. Several of these, you describe as having simple, straight forward language. Good to know that we don't have to get too fancy.

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  70. Creel FamilyFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:15 AM

    Thank you for pinpointing what to look for in these adorable books. I'm a huge fan of your podcast so I'm not surprised at your amazing insight :) thanks for sharing!

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  71. Melissa StollerFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:18 AM

    Matthew - Thanks for these excellent mentor texts! It was great to hear you speak at SCBWINY17 as well!

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  72. Shanah SalterFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:18 AM

    Love Bunnybear and They All Saw A Cat! Great post.

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  73. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:27 AM

    Thank you for your analysis of these mentor texts. You were spot on with your observation of They All Saw a Cat. Great book choices. Thanks again Matthew!

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  74. Laura ClementFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:30 AM

    What a great list! Some of my recent favorite. They All Saw a Cat is magic. Thanks so much for this post!

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  75. Christyne MorrellFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:33 AM

    Thank you for your selection of mentor texts! Even though I'd read them all, your breakdown of what to read for helped me see them with new eyes.

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  76. JEN GarrettFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:34 AM

    Wonderful post, wonderful selection, and wonderfully deep ways to analyze them! Off to the library I go!

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  77. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:35 AM

    Exciting new mentor texts to read. Thanks for the analysis on each of them

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  78. Mary WorleyFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:38 AM

    Thanks for this list and insights. Two books I had missed, so I'm happy. Also, love your podcasts. They never fail to uplift and inspire.

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  79. TraceyFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:48 AM

    Thank you for the mentor text suggestions, Matthew. Looking forward to reading them. Like you, word count doesn't matter much to me. It's the selection of words.

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  80. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:48 AM

    This is another amazing list of mentor texts. I love how simple text can have so many layers. Thank you!

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  81. Maria BostianFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:54 AM

    Great choices of mentor texts. Thanks for easing us into Day 2.

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  82. Beverley BairdFebruary 28, 2017 at 11:55 AM

    Wonderful mentor texts, wonderful advice. Thank you!

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  83. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2017 at 12:06 PM

    I love language too, and I am looking forward to reading your recommendations.

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  84. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 12:06 PM

    Thank you for pointing out what specifically to look for in your selections. Being a very visual person, I especially enjoyed how the illustrations carried the story in They All See A Cat. The ending illustration reminded me of Eric Carle's Mixed Up Chameleon.

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  85. Lori GravleyFebruary 28, 2017 at 12:16 PM

    I too love words and many of the books you've listed, but some are new to me. I can't wait to ead them. Thank you for all you do for children, for books, and for those of us who love children's books.

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  86. Kirsti CallFebruary 28, 2017 at 12:21 PM

    I love these books, Matthew! Thank you for grouping them together. It's always interesting to see what ideas come when I read 10 stellar mentor texts at once!

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  87. Claire BobrowFebruary 28, 2017 at 12:31 PM

    There's nothing better than having someone bring great books to our attention. Half of these selections were unfamiliar to me. Thanks, Matthew!

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  88. Sharon CoffeyFebruary 28, 2017 at 12:43 PM

    Thank you for sharing the titles that sing with language. They all are great examples but for very different reasons. Thanks for sharing a plethora of mentoring texts to learn from.

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  89. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2017 at 12:50 PM

    Thank you for your wonderful insight into these books!

    Alice Fulgione

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  90. Lori D.February 28, 2017 at 12:59 PM

    Such great choices and wonderful direction on what to "read for" in each. I also love what you said about writing: "words so carefully selected to speak forth the story."

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  91. Karin Fisher-GoltonFebruary 28, 2017 at 1:01 PM

    Thanks, Matthew! It strikes me that, as in Du Iz Tak?, Ooko invents language too, but drawing from English. Children are so brilliant with language. I also love books that let them stretch and play with their ideas about language.

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  92. Cathy Ballou MealeyFebruary 28, 2017 at 1:12 PM

    Adding to my library list again - hooray! Thank you Matthew.

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  93. Rebecca KoehnFebruary 28, 2017 at 1:21 PM

    Was just listening to an All The Wonders podcast before lunch. Such knowledge and insight! Thank you Matthew for being willing to share!

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  94. Susie SawyerFebruary 28, 2017 at 1:25 PM

    What a fantastic selection! I'm thoroughly enjoying these choices. Thank you, Matthew, for your insight into each of these special books!

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  95. McMarshallFebruary 28, 2017 at 1:33 PM

    Matthew, thanks for highlighting the wording and voice in these books, a few I get to read for the first time. I love your approach to picture books.

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  96. dafFebruary 28, 2017 at 1:41 PM

    Each word is so important! And we have so few to work with. Thanks for the insight into the PBs.

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  97. Pauline TsoFebruary 28, 2017 at 1:42 PM

    I'm going to the library this week! Thank you, Matthew!

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  98. Charlotte DixonFebruary 28, 2017 at 1:50 PM

    Thank you, Matthew, for the selection of books with amazing words to study as mentor texts.

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  99. ann mageeFebruary 28, 2017 at 2:05 PM

    Thanks, Matthew, for the reading suggestions and for the reminder of the importance of word choice. Just what I needed to hear!

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  100. Megan CasonFebruary 28, 2017 at 2:10 PM

    Matthew, these were great choices! I enjoyed reading them!

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  101. Kim ChaffeeFebruary 28, 2017 at 2:11 PM

    Thank you for the reading list... some great titles I have yet to read!

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  102. Nicole SharkeyFebruary 28, 2017 at 2:12 PM

    Thanks for the inspiring post! I want to both read and revise! Right now!

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  103. Pam ZollmanFebruary 28, 2017 at 2:14 PM

    What a great post, Matthew! Thank you! I've only read a couple of the 10 you recommend: Du Iz Tak? And BunnyBear. And I love both of them (the bug language one has become an all-time favorite of my grandgirls). I'm going to see what the library has and can get for me.

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  104. Anne AppertFebruary 28, 2017 at 2:26 PM

    Will definitely be thinking of all of these things as I work on my current manuscript. Thanks for the great list of books and what to look for with each story.

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  105. AliFebruary 28, 2017 at 2:57 PM

    All I have to say is Du Iz Tak? Wow! So fun and interesting. I'm language obsessed too and I am going to love studying these books!

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  106. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 3:01 PM

    Very thoughtful post! I look forward to reading all of these selections! Thank you for your insights!

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  107. Karen ConditFebruary 28, 2017 at 3:25 PM

    Thanks for the book list. My library had the all! They all say to me—sometimes less is better!

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  108. AnonymousFebruary 28, 2017 at 3:26 PM

    There are so many great book choices on your list. They have variety and unique characteristics! Thank you, Matthew!

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  109. HeatherFebruary 28, 2017 at 3:34 PM

    Thanks, Matthew! Love All the Wonders!

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  110. KFebruary 28, 2017 at 3:34 PM

    Fan of All the Wonders and of your text choices for this post. Thanks for sharing your insight!

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  111. Vivian KirkfieldFebruary 28, 2017 at 4:12 PM

    A perfect post, Matthew! I love how you chose one main element for us to look for. And now I've got 5 more books that are must-reads (I've already read the other 5). Thank you so much!!!!

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  112. Sara GentryFebruary 28, 2017 at 4:18 PM

    Wonderful post. Writing picture books has made me more selective in the words I use anywhere. Thank you.

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  113. Christine M. IrvinFebruary 28, 2017 at 4:40 PM

    Looks like a great set of books to read. I'm checking them out at my library today!

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  114. Joanne SherFebruary 28, 2017 at 5:02 PM

    Such great stuff - with LOTS of ideas to help my stories be better! Thanks :)

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  115. Judy SobanskiFebruary 28, 2017 at 5:33 PM

    Love the recommendations and the highlights of each author's use of language!

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  116. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 6:00 PM

    Thank you for this list--and the teasers that make me want to read them all right now! I'm already brainstorming ideas, and I haven't even read them yet!

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  117. Melissa RutiglianoFebruary 28, 2017 at 6:23 PM

    I'd like to thank Matthew for introducing me to Worm Loves Worm. That one blew me away. What a perfectly worded and constructed timely picture book, because what the world needs now is love, even from 2 Worms. I immediately recommended this book to all my friends w children. It's such an important story to share.
    In addition, I really like how you flat out state that what matters is the words-the language. The speak of the book. Doesn't matter if it rhymes, what the word count is, who tells the story, etc. as long as the story is told right. So valid.

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  118. Anna M LewisFebruary 28, 2017 at 6:43 PM

    Great examples matching voice/words with characters.

    Full circle day: I also stumbled across a wonderful interview with Andrea J. Loney.

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  119. Jen RaudenbushFebruary 28, 2017 at 6:48 PM

    I CANNOT wait to get my hands on these books. Thank you, Matthew, for the stellar list!

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  120. MARohrFebruary 28, 2017 at 6:58 PM

    Thanks for the great suggestions, looking forward to reading the ones I haven't already read!

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  121. Karin LarsonFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:09 PM

    Excellent post and mentor text reading reasons. Thank you!

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  122. susanbruck.comFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:09 PM

    Thanks for the recommendations! I've tracked down some and loved them--Worm Loves Worm, They All Saw a Cat and Du Iz Tak especially so far--can't wait to read the rest!

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  123. DeaFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:13 PM

    Aaahhh All the Wonders! Please tell Blake I said hello. ;) I, too, am obsessed with language and words. My son and I have a list of underappreciated and underutilized words. He's 20 now, we started years ago.

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  124. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:21 PM

    Great post, Matthew. Thanks for the list of mentor texts and your perspective on what makes the language work in each book. I can't wait to read them.

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  125. RickFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:36 PM

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  126. Ginger WeddleFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:39 PM

    Thank you Matthew! I love your "Read For" analysis and insights! Wonderful post!!!

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  127. rimnaFebruary 28, 2017 at 7:51 PM

    Every word counts, how true and I love your insights to how these authors used language. Thanks Matthew.

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  128. Angela HawkinsFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:00 PM

    Fantastic Mentor texts! Thanks Matthew!

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  129. BrendaFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:07 PM

    Lots of new books to read! Thanks!

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  130. Jennifer Cole JuddFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:18 PM

    Love this list! And love how your "reasons to read" sing just as much as the PBs you are describing. Thank you for reminding us to choose rich language and luminous words. I can't wait to read (and reread) your selections, Matthew!

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  131. Lexi DonahueFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:31 PM

    Thank you! I've been thinking about what is essential to my story and word count and this post reminded me that the right word choice is more important.

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  132. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:44 PM

    Such a simple concept, yet one that makes all the difference. Thanks for the mentor texts to study and the reminder, "It's all about the word choice!"

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  133. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 8:53 PM

    So many fantastic choices, Matthew! I loved Shel Silverstein's Lafcadio as a child for it's wonderful language, and the meta language love when Lafcadio muses on the word "marshmallow."

    Another favorite for its Blakian wordplay is Ounce Dice Trice - which also features drawings by one of my all-time favorites, Ben Shahn.

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  134. Susan WrobleFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:04 PM

    Great list! The Forgetful Knight is so unexpected, and perfect for read-alouds. But I truly loved Worm Loves Worm. What a perfect message for our time.

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  135. Sue PoduskaFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:16 PM

    Thanks, Matthew!

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  136. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:33 PM

    Such solid, concise notes on a great list -- thanks Matthew.

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  137. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 9:57 PM

    Matthew, thank you for your list and your reasons why you chose them:>

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  138. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:17 PM

    Thank you for your insights. It's good to read for different perspectives.

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  139. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:18 PM

    I enjoyed going through these books word by word. Thanks for sharing.

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  140. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:19 PM

    I love your attention to the importance of language, and thank you for such variety in your selections.

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  141. UnknownFebruary 28, 2017 at 10:21 PM

    Thanks for the reminder to make every word count and that a lot can be said in few words. I enjoyed your selections, most of which are new to me. Ooko made my daughter and me laugh out loud--love it!

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  142. Natalie Lynn TannerMarch 1, 2017 at 12:00 AM

    THANK YOU for the WONDERFUL examples! I CAN'T WAIT to dig in to each of these for a closer look!

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  143. suetwiggsbooksMarch 1, 2017 at 12:19 AM

    Matthew,
    I read all the books you recommended in the 12X12 webinar. I appreciated each one. i look forward to reading these as well. every word counts.

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  144. Susan DMarch 1, 2017 at 12:26 AM

    Fascinating discussion of the use of language, Matthew! Thank you for sharing and I can hardly wait to get my hands on all of these treasures.

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  145. Ashley BankheadMarch 1, 2017 at 12:46 AM

    Thanks for the great list of books, and why they resonated with you! Time to start reading.

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  146. Lynette OxleyMarch 1, 2017 at 12:59 AM

    Lisa Brown has certainly captured the busy-ness of the airport in, "The Airport Book". She even includes someone constantly chatting on the phone.

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  147. Angie QuantrellMarch 1, 2017 at 1:49 AM

    I love the suggested books! Have my stack to read at home... but reading this post at the ER while my dad is getting checked out. Thanks for the inspiration!

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  148. Sherry HowardMarch 1, 2017 at 4:42 AM

    I love the "read for" suggestions. It's nice to see what someone especially loves about the mentor texts!

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  149. Ann KelleyMarch 1, 2017 at 8:56 AM

    What a great list! I always learn something new from Matt's insights!

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  150. Cassie BentleyMarch 1, 2017 at 8:59 AM

    Ill study these books for the language. Thank you Matt!

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  151. UnknownMarch 1, 2017 at 1:58 PM

    Wow, all books I hadn't read before! Thanks!

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  152. UnknownMarch 1, 2017 at 3:40 PM

    Can't wait to get my hands on these books!

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  153. Nicki JacobsmeyerMarch 1, 2017 at 4:12 PM

    Thank you Matthew for pointing out the different uses of language!

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  154. UnknownMarch 1, 2017 at 4:13 PM

    I haven't gotten to read a couple of these yet. Anxious to get my hands on them. Thanks for the post!!

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  155. Joan SwansonMarch 1, 2017 at 4:27 PM

    Can't wait to read the ones that I haven't read yet!

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  156. Cecilia McCarthyMarch 1, 2017 at 5:39 PM

    Enjoyed these fun reads. Thanks!

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  157. UnknownMarch 1, 2017 at 9:17 PM

    Thank you, Matthew, for such a thought-provoking post. Looking forward to studying these books!

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  158. bbMarch 1, 2017 at 9:25 PM

    Thanks for the great book list- and what to look for as I read (or re-read) them!

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  159. Maria GianferrariMarch 1, 2017 at 9:34 PM

    Worm Loves Worm was one of my favorite books read last year--so spot on. I also loved They All Saw a Cat. Brendan Wenzel has been on my favorite illustrator list for quite some time. Looking forward to reading Cat Knit & Ooko. Thanks, Matthew!

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  160. Myrna FosterMarch 2, 2017 at 1:37 AM

    Thank you for the breakdown of why these work for you! I look forward to reading and rereading.

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  161. Sharon GiltrowMarch 2, 2017 at 3:20 AM

    Thank you Matthew for a great list of books to read and to learn from I love language too.

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  162. Robin KeelerMarch 2, 2017 at 6:58 AM

    A terrific list of books to study for their use of language.

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  163. MrBMarch 2, 2017 at 7:48 AM

    Many thanks. Your post is much like the books themselves, spare but focused and perceptive. Book choices require more reading on my part.

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  164. Aidan CassieMarch 2, 2017 at 8:30 AM

    A fantastic list Matthew, thank you. Can't wait to go read those that are new to me.

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  165. Therese Kay CreativeMarch 2, 2017 at 9:21 AM

    I loved these books. I'm still having a hard time connecting with Iz Du Tak? I'm going to reread that one several times I think and see if I change my mind. Is anyone else having a hard time connecting with that one?

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  166. Carole CalladineMarch 2, 2017 at 10:53 AM

    I will be going back to this one often. What text choices to tell the story? Thanks, Matthew.

    Carole Calladine

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  167. coleen patrickMarch 2, 2017 at 10:56 AM

    Excited to check out the titles that are new to me--thanks!!

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  168. Matthew C. WinnerMarch 2, 2017 at 11:35 AM

    There's an exception to every rule when making picture books. Happy writing!

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  169. AngieMarch 2, 2017 at 2:33 PM

    I also notice that all of these are high concept. The language is just icing.

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  170. Amie Valore-CaplanMarch 2, 2017 at 3:35 PM

    Thank you so much for these great recommendations and things to look for. I never tire of reading "They all saw a cat" aloud because it can be like an acting exercise--the meaning/emotion changes each time the phrase is repeated.

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  171. Elizabeth TuckerMarch 3, 2017 at 11:00 AM

    Although my sons are 15 and 22, they know they are never too old for their mother to read them a good picture book. Thank you for two new favorites, one for each of them: Bunnybear and The Airport Book. I enjoyed the entire list.

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  172. AJ IrvingMarch 3, 2017 at 11:43 AM

    Excellent list with reading tips to improve craft! Thank you, Matthew!

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  173. Jilanne HoffmannMarch 3, 2017 at 1:22 PM

    So many books, so many different things to offer the perceptive reader/writer. Thanks for noting the key elements behind your selections.

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  174. Meli GlickmanMarch 3, 2017 at 2:35 PM

    Oh the power of the words we use... The language of storytelling is an art. Thanks for the insightful comments and the helpful book recommendations!

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  175. ShereenSMarch 3, 2017 at 5:50 PM

    Can't way to use some of these as mentor texts when drafting a new story!

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  176. Mrs. DubMarch 3, 2017 at 8:54 PM

    I'm a fellow word lover (and All the Wonders fangirl). You picked perfect examples of different types of language, real and made up, that make a book magical. Thanks!

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  177. Kim BallMarch 4, 2017 at 4:25 PM

    What a wonderful list of books. I especially appreciate your pointing out what to read them for. I haven't read them all, but I'm trying to get my hands on the missing ones. Especially OOKO. I want to learn more about "Debbies." And BUNNYBEAR is on order at my library. I don't know if I can wait that long. Thanks, Matthew, for the thoughtful post that reminds us that each word is as precious as an artist's brush stroke.

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  178. UnknownMarch 4, 2017 at 5:03 PM

    Thank you for the recommendations, Matthew! I loved Du Iz Tak and took a bunch of these out from the library today! Look forward to reading them!

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  179. UnknownMarch 4, 2017 at 5:10 PM

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  180. UnknownMarch 4, 2017 at 5:13 PM

    Matthew, thank you for these insights and suggestions on how to read these books and what to look for. So very helpful to this new writer. Looking forward to reading more.

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  181. Joy MainMarch 5, 2017 at 2:45 AM

    Thank you Matthew for these great book choices. Word play and language make a story shine and sing.

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