A Weekend with Wendell

Bibliographic Information: Henkes, K. (1986). A Weekend with Wendell. Grennwillow Books.
Annotation: Sophie does not enjoy Wendell’s visits because of his assertiveness. But, towards the end of the weekend Sophie learned to be assertive herself and she finds out that Wendell is fun after all.
Genre: Realistic Animal Fiction.
Grade: one thru 3
Who would like this: I think students having difficulties getting along with other students would enjoy this book also students who are fans of Kevin Henkes.
Rating/Response: 4 – I think that this can provide a valid lesson for students within the classroom. I also enjoyed the characters in this book. Great read for readers who want a quick read with a lesson involved, a great thing about Kevin’s books in general.
Question: Why don’t you always get along with people?

Owen

Bibliographic Information: Henkes, K. (1993). Owen. New York, New York: Greenwillow Books.

Brief Annotation: Owen loves his fuzzy, yellow blanket. He takes it with him everywhere, but his parents think it's time for his blanket to go. He could not go to school without it! What will Owen do? Will his parents find a solution they can all agree on?

Genre: Animal fiction

Grade Level: preK-2

Readers who will like this: Readers who like talking animal stories. Readers who have items that they can't get rid of.

Response/Rating (1-4): 4. This book is adorable. The common issue of trying to get rid of a comfort item is solved in this cute book about Owen.

One question you would ask before a read aloud: Have you ever had an item such as a blanket, doll, or toy that's been your favorite had for a long time? Did you bring it with you everywhere? Did you ever have to get rid of it?