Book Review - Button Up!

1. Bibliography

 Schertle, Alice. 2009. Button Up! Ill. Petra Mathers. New York: NY: Harcourt Children's Books. ISBN: 978-0-15-205050-4.

2. Plot Summary

This collection of fifteen stand alone poems relates to articles of clothing.  Animals and their belongings joyfully illustrate each item presented.  A pig wears galoshes, a rabbit wears a swimsuit, and an ostrich wears a turtle neck sweater - what a sight! Young children will enjoy each of the relatable, funny rhymes.

3. Critical Analysis 

The topic of clothing items is something that children can relate to.  They all must learn to dress themselves, button shirts, put on socks, and tie shoes.  These short poems are presented from the perspective of the clothing, which is a fun concept for young audiences. The organization and design of this collection is a great balance of poetry and illustrations. There are no reference aids for use with this book,the poems are light and enjoyable, so this is not needed. Kids are sure to laugh at the poem entitled "Emily's Undies". The milestone of moving from diapers to underwear is something our kids are typically excited about.  "She doesn't wear diapers,/ not even to bed./ Now she wears undies/ with ruffles instead." Additionally, opportunities to expand children's  vocabulary are presented.  Some children are not familiar with galoshes, wool sweaters, or hand-me-downs.  

The irregular rhythms and unpredictable end rhymes make reading the poems aloud enjoyable. These "wrinkled" rhymes are written in couplets and quatrians with occasional internal rhyme.  Alliteration and repetition add to the appeal as well.  "We are the jammies that Joshua wears,/ not jammies for pengiuns,/ not jammies for bears."   The charming illustrations pair nicely with each poem, perfectly detailing each item.  When Bertie's shoelaces are shown trailing behind as he walks casually along a street, adults and kids both can relate to what they see in the picture. Harvey (the pig) has galoshes - four of course - that are two different pairs.  This whimsical illustration makes the picture colorful and fun.  This is a clever and original presentation of a fun poetic experience for all! Included on the book jacket are short background information pieces on the poet and the illustrator. 

4. Review Excerpts 

2009 Horn Book Starred: "from delicately comical to downright funny"

2009 School Library Journal: "Playful spreads and spot art suit the small, snappy verses beautifully."

5. Connections

Bring articles of clothing and write a class poem or two similar to those presented in this collection.

Locate other poetry by Alice Schertle, such as Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear or I Am The Cat, and discuss how these poem collections are similar or different from those presented in Button Up!