Wait a Minute Mr. Postman-monthly challenge

By Janie Reinart

I can't believe that 2016 marked the 30 year anniversary of the book, The Jolly Postman by Janet and Allan Ahlberg. This darling interactive book has removable letters from different fairy tale characters in addition to the story text. My youngest daughter remembers this book fondly. Can you guess what your challenge is? Get your pen ready to write a story using the epistolary formant.

By Troy Cummings

This adoption story is told through letters by the dog, himself. Arfy is homeless and approaches everyone on Butternut Street. The surprise ending is very satisfying.

Dear People at Yellow House, 

Woof! Can I be your dog? I am potty trained and have my own squeaky bone.

Also: I love to play! I see you have a cat, but I am willing to work with you.

Whoooooos a good dog? I am !!!

Sincerely,

Arfy

P.S. I know every house on Butternut Street, but I asked you first.

By Josh Funk

George and Blaise are pen pals, and they write letters to each other about everything. There’s just one thing that the two friends don’t know: George is a human, while Blaise is a dragon! What will happen when they finally meet?

Hello, students!
Our poetry and pen pal projects 
   this year are combined.
Upon your desks you'll see the pen pals
   that you've been assigned.
Please make sure the letters that you 
   write are all in rhyme.
Now open up your envelopes because
   it's pen pal time!

By Irene Latham

After she comes across a postcard, Agnes, a giant Pacific octopus, strikes up a correspondence with various other creatures below―and above―the waves. Readers will delight in this unlikely introduction to the octopus life cycle.

One day in the deep dark beneath the pier, an octopus found a large jar. She knew it would make the perfect home. But something was blocking her way. 

Dear Nobody,
Mom said I'm not allowed to call you a monster, even though that's what you are.So I'm writing it instead. MONSTER. Things were great until you came along.
Your nothing,
Andrew
                        

By Adam Rex

Ox is in love! A simple ox professes his love for the glamorous gazelle who thinks she doesn't like him. Or does she?

Dear Gazelle, 

For some time now I have wanted to write a letter to say how much I admire you. You are so graceful and fine. Even when you are running from tigers you are like a ballerina who is running from tigers. 

I think that what I am trying to say is that I love you.

XO,

OX

So no matter if you are writing to a pet or a princess--see where the story leads you. I'm sure the Jolly Postman would be happy to deliver the mail. Happy writing. Be sure to mention your favorite story told in letters in the comments.