Module 1: Henry and the Buccaneer Bunnies

   Module 1: Henry and the Buccaneer Bunnies




Book Summary:

          In this story, Henry is the son of fierce pirate, Barnacle Black Ear.  Henry does not fit in with the crew of pirates.  His dad does not understand how Henry can spend his days reading, rather than plundering and doing pirate things.  As a twist of fate, Henry predicts that a terrible storm is brewing.  Soon the shipwrecked pirates learn to appreciate Henry and his book knowledge when he saves the marooned pirate crew from starvation and teaches them how to survive. 

Reference:

Crimi, C. (2005).  Henry and the buccaneer bunnies. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press. ISBN- 9780763624491

    

Impressions: 

I enjoyed reading this book because of the colorful, comical illustrations and the message the author portrays in the story. Crimi reveals her message in a comical light by using pirate bunnies to explain why people should read.  Whether a pirate reads for enjoyment or to gain information, books are a valuable treasure in life. I like that the bookworm Henry saves the fierce pirates and teaches them a thing or two about survival.  I think young children will especially enjoy this pirate tale because of the action and comical illustrations. This a great story to introduce the importance of reading to primary aged children.   

   

Reviews:

From School Library Journal

K-Gr 2-Henry is not a typical buccaneer bunny. Instead of performing his proper pirating duties, he would rather read the books that he took from other ships. His father, the captain, is not proud of his son and the rest of the crew makes fun of him. When they are shipwrecked on a deserted island, however, it is Henry and his "book smarts" that save the day. Although the plot is weak, the illustrations are fresh and comical, and send a clear message about the importance of reading.-List/S. Schindler. Bethpage Public Library', NY

Schindler, L. (2005). [Review of Henry and the Buccaneer Bunnies, by Carolyn Crimi]. School Library Journal, 51(11), 89.  Available from EBSCOhost http://libproxy.library.unt.edu:2200/ehost/detail/detail?vid=10&sid=4275bda1-abf3-4429-afca-c6c28bca05d0%40sessionmgr104&hid=118&bdata=JnNjb3BlPXNpdGU%3d#AN=18797556&db=lls

In the Library:

I would use this book in the library to introduce students, especially the younger students to reading and the library.  I would start by reading the book. Then make a web about why people read books.  I would make a list of different topics or genres that interest students.  After the discussion, I would take the students on a tour of the library pointing out the various sections of the library that included the genres that students were interested in reading.