Thank you, Mr. Falker, Polacco / Realistic Fiction

Title: Thank you, Mr. Falker

Author/Illustrator: Patricia Polacco
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Ages: 3rd+

Summary:
This story is about a young girl as she grows up through school. She cannot read and she learns tricks to get out of reading in class so no one can tease her. However, her classmates relentlessly tease her and make fun of her. She is bullied so much she begins to believe that she is stupid and unable to learn anything. Then a new teacher comes to school and with his help little Trisha is able to learn how to read after all. 

Illustrations:
Polacco illustrates this book with beautifully realistic drawings throughout the story. These images really bring life and emotion to the story. Her use of color and forms create dramatic and moving images that help readers connect strongly with the characters. 

In the classroom: 
A book like this carries a heavy message. It is important for students o read stories that encourage them and move them. This emotional story about a little girl learning to read in the face of so much confusion and criticism is important. Students will identify with the little girl and learn lessons about bullying, learning, and determination. They will see how hard work and compassionate help can help you accomplish any goal.