Jumanji by Chris Van Allsburg

Title: Jumanji

Genre: Fantasy and Scifi

Author: Chris Van Allsburg

Major awards: Caldecott Medal

Age group: 1st-4th

Summary: 

This Caldecott Medal book is about Peter and Judy's unexpected, yet adventurous afternoon. The two children are left home alone. With nothing to do, they stumble across a jungle-themed board game. Little do they know, the game comes to life! They must win the game for it to end. From lions to a volcano, Peter and Judy face many challenges. Judy wins the game. However, the game ends up in the hands of two more children. 

Why would I use this book in the classroom: 

As a future educator, I'd use this book in my classroom to take my students on an adventure! I will make sure to teach students that the book is fiction. Board games are not magical, but they are fun!

 The black and white illustrations in this book are great, and perfect to share with students.  

Appropriate grade level:

I think an appropriate grade level for this book is 1st-4th. There is a lot of text, but the neat illustrations in this book are captivating. Students will enjoy Peter and Judy's adventure.  

Ideas for unit of study to include the book in and how you might use the book in the classroom:

• Language Arts/Art: I would use this book to lead an activity where students create their own board games! Students will work in groups to create a game, from start to end, with instructions.