Evaluating Picture Books - Assignment and List

Directions: Select two (2) picture books from the list provided below:

One (1) from the Upper Elementary list and one (1) from the Lower Elementary list. Answer the following questions about each book. You will have two entries in this submission: one for the upper elementary picture book and one for the lower elementary picture book. For each book provide answers to the questions listed below. Use the categories (Content, Illustrations, etc.) to identify the questions you are answering and number your responses to match the questions you are answering.
Content:

1. When and where does the story take place? How has the artist portrayed this?

2. Are the characters delineated and developed through text and illustrations?

3. How is the theme developed through text and illustrations?

Illustrations:

4. In what ways do the illustrations help create the meaning of the text?

5. Do the illustrations extend the text in any way? Do they provide clues to the action of the story? Explain your answer.

6. Are the pictures accurate and consistent with the text? Explain your answer.

Medium and Style of Illustrations:

7. What medium has the illustrator chosen to use? How is it appropriate for the mood of the story?

8. How would you describe the style of the illustrations? Is the style appropriate for the story? Explain your answer.

9. How has the illustrator used line, shape, and color to extend the meaning of the story?

Format:

10. Does the size of the book seem appropriate to the content? Explain your answer.

11. Doe the cover design and end papers convey the spirit of the book? Explain your answer.

12. Does the jacket design express the theme of the book? Explain your answer.