A Ball for Daisy

Bibliography:
Raschka, Christopher. 2011. A BALL FOR DAISY. New York. Schwarz and Wade Books. ISBN 9780375858611.

Plot summary:

This is a wordless type of picture books. The author brings us a beautiful and tender story about a dog Daisy and her ball. The plot is very simple: Daisy is fond of her toy; she likes to sleep with it, she likes to play with it in the house and in the park. Something terrible happens in the park: the other dog popped the ball! Poor Daisy is desperate, nothing can cheer her up. Until the next day in the park... Is it possible to find a new toy and a new friend at the same time?

Critical analysis:



 Although there are no words, it is such a delicate and touching story.  It’s pictures are the words and I think that they do a great job telling the story. The illustrations are very vivid and bright and show exactly what the author is trying to say. Of all visual elements, color dominates on the pages, conveying emotions. Red ball represents strong, warm feelings, love, attraction.  

Older readers will recognize the deeper theme of loss and healing. The simple story about the dog and her ball introduces more mature topic: how does one recover from a loss or a big disappointment? Children can discover these themes by looking through the book with older readers, or they can simply be entertained by the adorable story of a dog and her ball. Overall, the picture book is quite enjoyable.  It’s recommended for children 3-7 but can certainly be enjoyed by all!


I think this book is a great way to introduce emotions and creativity, develop oral fluency and vocabulary skills. It also allows young readers to use their imagination  just by viewing the pictures. 



Review expert(s)

"A story that is noteworthy for both its artistry and its child appeal." Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

"Rarely, perhaps never, has so steep an emotional arc been drawn with such utter, winning simplicity." School Library Journal, Starred Review

"Raschka's genius lies in capturing the essence of situations that are deeply felt by children." Horn Book, Starred Review


Connections:

Suggest to students to try themselves in a role of an author and come up with the best story, using illustration of the book.

Have students create a silent movie, based on the book.

Prompt a discussion about toys, things loved and lost.