Day 13: Storytelling without Words -- Cole's Best Picture book

     In the world of children's literature, there are several books that are so wonderfully illustrated that there are no words to be written.  The pictures tell the story and somehow, every "reader"  hears the same voices, hard the same words and feels the same way.  Librarians and teachers are taught  that books like these are wonderful to share but never for story time.  Additionally, these books are perfect for the reluctant readers to become comfortable with books and hopefully begin a journey to becoming lifelong readers.   There may be some truth to the "common wisdom' of the professions,  it has been my experience that these types of  books are great for class or library story hours.  It provides a different spin on telling a story as well as engaging the audience with questions, comments that bring about teachable moments. 

    Henry Cole is well known in children's literature circles.  His work has spanned decades and delights children of all ages. His black and white drawings seem so simple yet they are so dynamic and detailed.  His most popular book to date is Unspoken:  A Story From the Underground Railroad.    The silence, stillness and secretive nature of this story comes out clearly.  Going through the pages,  the reader must stop to study the full picture and contemplate what is going on in the story.  From the very first page,  when our heroine witness the Confederate Soldiers on horseback to the very last page where the little girl is tucked in bed, with a favorite doll, looking out her bedroom window.  In the night sky, there is the trace of the Drinking gourd, also knowns as the North Star to Freedom.  Readers fallow  with deep interest on the heroine's actions  and wonder if they would have been able to help someone become free, even if it meant risking their own life.   

    Since this book has been published, I have shared this story for what seems like a million times.  It is undoubtably a classic and favorite that will hold a place on the bookshelves for. years to come.   Reactions from this book during story times have been priceless and memorable.  As stated before,  using a wordless picture book is not a good idea for story time. except for times when it is perfect.  Children and adults as well, respond to the art work with surprisingly interesting observations.   During a recent story time where Unspoken was featured, a child asked if the adults at the farmhouse would have been okay with the little girl helping a runaway slave. After discussing it for a while, this particular group of children can to the conclusion that yes, they would have been okay with it because children learn best from their environment.   What a powerful statement to come from such young voices
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    This title is requested quite often from libraries, especially during Black History Month.  However, this book is perfect for any month, weak or day of the year.   If it is not on the book shelf this month,  most definitely make the effort to check it out sometimes during the year.  Of course,  if readers are anything like me,  checking out the book is not enough.  It's much better to have a copy on hand, at home.