The Big Umbrella by Amy June Bates

Title: The Big Umbrella

Genre: Fiction/Multicultural

Author: Amy June Bates and Juniper Bates

Illustrator: Amy June Bates

Major awards: N/A

Age group: PreK-3rd

Summary: 

This is a great book that shares the idea on what it means to come together, regardless of differences. The main character in this book is a child, who has a big umbrella. This umbrella brings together people from all walks of life. No matter the color, the size, or looks, the umbrella accepts all. In the end, there is a large illustration of people from different cultures, ages, and genders coming together. 

Why would I use this book in the classroom: 

As a future educator, I'd use this book in my classroom to teach students about cultures and differences. We may all have different backgrounds, but that shouldn't divide us. The book shows compassion towards people who are different from us. This concept is one the children should learn early on.

Appropriate grade level:

I think an appropriate grade level for this book is PreK-3rd. The book has simple sentences, and simple words that students from this age group will be able to understand. The vocabulary includes many sight words. The illustrations also do a really good job of showing the differences of the characters. Students will be able to differentiate easily.

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

• Language Arts: I would use this book in a unit on culture. I would have students describe the characters that the umbrella covers.