Pecan Pie Baby

 

Written by: Jacqueline Woodson

Illustrated by: Sophie Blackall

Genre: realistic fiction

Awards: ALA Notable Books

               Booklist Best Book

               Ebony Magazine’s favorite children’s books of 2010

              New York Library’s 100 Titles for Reading & Sharing 

              Bank Street Best Book 

              CCBC Choices

Summary:

Gia is about to become a big sister, only she cannot stand that "ding-dang baby." Everywhere she looks, people are talking about the baby and she is not at all interested. Gia is sure that the baby will change everything in her life, especially her relationship with her mom. There is only one good thing: the baby loves pecan pie just as much as she does. After a rough thanksgiving dinner, Gia feels very lonely and separated from the rest of her family. Her mom encourages her to hold on to memories of life before the new baby and share those times with everyone.

Teacher Evaluation:

I would use this book for a third-grade classroom to begin teaching text analysis. This story leaves room for prediction and textual connections which would be a good starting point for third graders. After the read-aloud, I would ask students to share some things they identify with from the book. We would consider how Gia dealt with her feelings and think of ways the students deal with theirs. Once we've made connections, I would have students predict what happened for Gia after the baby's arrival. Students would create a short story to extend this book and explain what they believe will happen. This activity would allow students to practice writing skills and literary analysis.