Thursday, January 31, 2019

Whittington by Alan Armstrong illustrated by S.D. Schindler*

-Award winning book-Newbery Honor Book
I read this book aloud to my sons.
A cat named Whittington arrives in Bernie's barn, looking for a home.  Lady, the Muscovy duck who rules the barn, decides to permit him to stay (after setting up some boundaries and deals).  As time progresses, Whittington shares his family history and also stories about a beloved historical figure, Dick Whittington. 
Bernie's grandchildren live with him and his wife.  The children soon routinely visit the barn and talk with the animals.  Eight year old Ben reveals his struggle to learn to read.  Through his sister Abby's encouragement,  through Whittington's inspiring stories and through the animals' support, Ben faces his dyslexia and gains confidence.

Mr. Armstrong weaves two story lines together-Medieval England and the  modern days at a "catch all" barn. 

The author lists all of the resources he consulted in order to write this book accurately and with credence.
Points to discuss/warning: dyslexia/learning disabilities, bullies/cruelty, Dick Whittington really checks out Mary, the woman he loves, at one part in the story-her features/body

*Highly recommend.
-Borrowed from the library.

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