All Alone

Book Title: All Alone

Author(s): Kevin Henkes

Illustrator/Photographer/Artist: Kevin Henkes

Publisher: Greenwillow Books

Copyright Date: 1981

Genre: Picture Book – Contemporary Realistic Fiction

Brief Annotation:

Sometimes, it’s lovely to be alone. Through the eyes of a young boy, Henkes shows the reader the peaceful perks of solitude.

Your Rating (1-5) and why:

5 – This would be a great book to read-aloud when the class needs to take a breather. The writing and the illustrations are very meditative and calming. I’d love to read this after recess or right before dismissal. Leave with the feeling that yes, sometimes it’s great to play with friends,

but it’s also very important to have that time with just yourself.

Readers who will like this book:

I’d say anyone who likes to read a relaxing story would like this book. May it be a first grader to a 50 year-old. I think it would be more affective as a read-aloud for elementary school-age children – especially with the children caught up with friend time to an almost obsessive level.

Teaching Strategy from Yopp & Yopp:

Make an "I Am Poem " in response to the reading. p. 130

A nice way to reflect and connect the story to each individual student.

I am (name)

I want...

I wonder...

I hear...

I see...

I am (name)

I pretend...

I feel...

I touch...

I worry...

I cry...

I am (name)

I understand...

I say...

I dream...

I try...

I hope...

I am (name)

Question to ask about this book before a read aloud:

Do you think playing by yourself is a good thing or a bad thing?

What do you do when you’re alone? Do you go do something adventurous or relaxing?

Optional, but noted as extra effort:

1. Interest Level (age): 6 and up

2. Grade Level Equivalent (grade): 4.0-5.0

3. List Awards:

Cooperative Children’s Book Center award