That Book Woman

Title: That Book Woman
Author: Heather Henson
Illustrations: David Small
Published: Henson, H. (2008). That book woman. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers.
Themes: reading, books, librarian, inspiration

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Cal is not someone who enjoys reading, unlike his sister Lark. One day a book woman comes to their home and returns every few weeks to deliver books to his family. Cal can’t imagine who would want books. As time goes on Cal’s interest in this book woman heightens, and so does his interest in books.

This book is written in older English and from the point of view from someone who doesn't read/know how to read. As such, it may be a little harder for students to understand. However, I have found that if you guide them in "close reading" (such as using the handout below) it becomes easier for them to discover the main idea or lesson that the story presents.

This truly is a beautiful story of how reading can intrigue and transform a person. David Small creates some beautiful illustrations for this book and transports the reader into the Appalachian Mountains.

Classroom Ideas:
- Do a preliminary picture walk with your students before reading - they will help your students to understand the text.
 -This book talks about Pack Horse Librarians, in the spirit of this, you could have your students explore the history of librarians. There's a great wikispace site found here.
- The author uses a ton of figurative language - lots of similes and metaphors!!
- This story takes place during the Great Depression, have your students explore what it may have been like to live during this time.
- Reflection Question: the Pack Horse Librarians must have loved books a lot to travel in dangerous conditions to deliver books. Have students pick 1 or 2 of their favourite books (and why) and compile a list of your class’ recommended readings.
- Once students become more familiar with the story and storyline, this could be a great story for reader's theatre (it can be read like a dramatic monologue).