Picture Book- Review 1

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Nolen, Jerdine. 2003. Thunder Rose. Ill. by Kadir Nelson. San Diego, CA:“Silver Whistle”-Harcourt Brace, Inc. ISBN 0152164723

2. PLOT SUMMARY
Author Jerdine Nolen introduces readers to Thunder Rose, a valiant character with superfluous physical abilities. Born during a stormy night, Thunder Rose is believed to have inherited the striking force of thunder and lightning. From her first day of birth Thunder Rose demonstrates extraordinary abilities such as participating in conversation, milking a cow to satisfy her hunger, and bending pieces of iron. Thunder Rose is also able to confront and defeat imminent troubles such as stopping a stampede of wild longhorn and putting an end to the ill doings of a thieving gang. Nothing seemed to be able to overcome Thunder Rose until one hot, dry day two twisting tornadoes threaten her mere existence. When her customary resources come to no avail in taming the tornadoes, Thunder Rose discovers a use for a “lullaby passed down from the ages …” that had been waiting patiently within her heart since her birthday when her parents had sung it to her. The soothing music calms the tornadoes, converting them into a much needed evening of rain.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Prior to engaging in the story the author prepares the reader for what is to come by providing a note that describes the historical background and basis for his writing. Subsequently, the reader is informally provided with an insight into the qualities of the main character through the description of the storm night: “Hailing rain, flashing lighting, and booming thunder…” The reader can automatically gain a sense of something strong and powerful. This is a folktale that is bursting with enriching vocabulary with the inclusion of wordings and phrases that reflect the mannerisms of the South such as “reckon” and “much obliged”. The illustrations by Kadir Nelson work hand in hand with the text in each page. They are vivid and help in displaying the wacky and abnormal abilities of Thunder Rose. Children are sure to enjoy these depictions. Thunder Rose’s concluding realization that what was good and sweet in her heart had “touched the hearts of the clouds” allows a lesson to be learned as well.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Corretta Scott King Illustrator Award Honor Book 2004
Starred review in Chicago Tribune:
"Kadir Nelson's illustrations...are terrific. Rose is just the right combination of tough little girl and superhero."

5. CONNECTIONS
This would be a great inclusion in a unit about multiculturalism or West Texas.
Use as an example of a folk tale for introduction of concept or for a unit on folktales.
Compare and contrast elements of a folk tale with other picture books.
Use to deliver the value of human goodness to help others.
Other similar books:
Nolen, Jerdine. BIG JABE. ISBN 0060540613
Grifalconi, Ann. THE VILLAGE THAT VANISHED. ISBN: 0142401900