Owen by Kevin Henkes

 

Title: Owen

Genre: Fantasy 

Author: Kevin Henkes

Major awards: Caldecott Honor Book

Age group: PreK-3

Summary: 

This is a fun book about Owen, a school-aged mouse, and his blanket named Fuzzy. Owen and Fuzzy are two peas in a pod. Owen does everything and anything with Fuzzy. After concerns from a neighbor, Owen's parents try to detach Owen from Fuzzy. It's not always easy letting go, but Owen's mother knows just what to do. She uses Fuzzy to create a handkerchief for Owen. The handkerchief isn't as big as Fuzzy, but its origins are what matter most to Owen. That's what makes it so special.

Why would I use this book in the classroom: 

As a future educator, I'd use this book in my classroom to teach students that everything is going to be okay. Owen and Fuzzy's relationship is one that most children have. Kids tend to hang on to things, and use them as emotional companions. It's nice to find peace and protection in something, but this is a stage that children find the hardest to grow out of. This is especially true when they start school. I think this book is perfect to introduce kids to the process of letting go. I also think it's fun that the book is told in a mice world, yet it still addresses and relates to real life. 

Appropriate grade level:

I think an appropriate grade level for this book is PreK-3rd. Although Owen is a mouse, this age group may relate to Owen and Fuzzy's bond the most. When we are younger, we all have a favorite toy or object. This age group is also new to school. 

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 have students relate it to their lives. Owen's blanket means the world to him. I'd have the students draw a picture of something they love, and I'd ask them why they love it.