The Big Green Pocketbook
Unknown
By: Candice F. Ransom
On her day in town with her mother, a little girl starts off with an empty big green pocketbook—just like her mother’s—and along the way collects pieces of her day to put inside, inventing stories for each treasure. ‘Studded with inventive imagery.… A playful and most suitable setting for this winsome story with its timeless theme.’—Publishers Weekly. ‘ Bond’s cheerful illlustrations show a lively youngster exploring and enjoying the world around her.’—SLJ. 1993 "Pick of the Lists" (ABA)
AI Overview
Title: The Big Green Pocketbook Author: Candice F. Ransom Illustrator: Felicia Bond Publisher: HarperCollins Publication Year: 1993 ISBN-10: 0064433951 ISBN-13: 978-0064433952
Plot Summary
The Big Green Pocketbook is a heartwarming picture book about a young girl who accompanies her mother on a day trip to town. The story begins with the girl starting off with an empty big green pocketbook, just like her mother's. As they go about their day, visiting various shops and completing errands, the girl collects small items and mementos from each stop. She then invents stories for each treasure she collects, turning her day into a series of imaginative adventures.
Key Themes
- Imagination and Creativity: The book celebrates the power of imagination and creativity as the girl invents stories for each item she collects.
- Mother-Daughter Bonding: The story highlights the special bond between a mother and daughter, showcasing their time together as a memorable and enjoyable experience.
- Exploration and Discovery: The book encourages children to explore their surroundings and appreciate the small details in everyday life.
Critical Reception
Reviews: The book has received widespread acclaim for its delightful storytelling and charming illustrations. Reviewers have praised the book for its timeless theme and inventive imagery. Publishers Weekly noted that the story is "studded with inventive imagery" and provides "a playful and most suitable setting" for the narrative.
Awards and Recognition: The Big Green Pocketbook was selected as a "Pick of the Lists" by the American Booksellers Association (ABA) in 1993, indicating its popularity and critical acclaim among bookstores.
Educational Value: The book has been used in educational settings, with some educators modeling the activity of collecting mementos with their children, as described by mom blogger and homeschool educator Amy.
Activities and Educational Uses
- Activities to Fill Your Own Pocketbook: The book has inspired various activities where children can collect their own mementos and create stories, mirroring the main character's experience. This activity encourages children to engage with their environment and develop their creative writing skills.
In summary, The Big Green Pocketbook is a charming picture book that celebrates imagination, mother-daughter bonding, and exploration. Its critical reception has been positive, with praise for its inventive storytelling and delightful illustrations. The book has also been recognized for its educational value and has inspired various activities that encourage children to engage creatively with their surroundings.