Monday, February 29, 2016

Austin, Lost in America (A Geography Adventure) by Jef Czekaj –ESSENTIAL

Czekaj, Jef Austin, Lost in America (A Geography Adventure)  Balzer and Bray (Harper Collins), 2015. $17.99 PICTURE BOOK

This is the story of Austin the dog, who wasn’t adopted at a pet shop and instead escapes. He decides to seek his new home in one of the States. Traveling to all 50 states, he learns interesting things, scary or funny facts that make him keep looking, and learns new things. Will he ever find where he belongs? A Map with states and capitols is included in the front and back covers of the book. Features large, bright, adorable illustrations.

Where has this book been all my life! This blows any other picture books about the States out of the water. I have despaired finding just the right book for this topic for younger grade teachers (There are many and I don't like any of them), and here it finally is. Because of the story format learning is so fun and fabulous that even students readers will want to read this on their own. The artwork is darling and engaging. The book is funny, interesting and would be a top notch introduction to United States for young readers.

EL(K-3) –ESSENTIAL Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary School Librarian & Author.

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