Shiver Me Letters
A Pirate ABC
By: June Sobel
Having decided that R is not enough for them, a bumbling band of pirates sets sail on a quest to capture the rest of the alphabet.
AI Overview
Book Overview: "Shiver Me Letters" by June Sobel
Plot Summary: "Shiver Me Letters: A Pirate ABC" by June Sobel is a picture book that follows a band of animal pirates on an alphabet adventure. The captain of the crew orders them to capture the entire alphabet, and if they fail, they will have to walk the plank. The pirates embark on a swashbuckling journey to find each letter from A to Z, encountering various maritime and pirate-centric elements along the way, such as doubloons, hooks, and "yo-ho-ho-ho" chants.
Key Themes:
- Alphabet Learning: The book is designed to help young readers learn the alphabet in a fun and engaging way.
- Pirate Adventure: The pirate theme adds an element of excitement and adventure, making the learning process enjoyable.
- Creativity and Observation: The book encourages children to observe and spot multiple examples of each letter in the text and illustrations.
Critical Reception:
- Publishers Weekly: Describes the book as an "alphabet adventure unlike any other" and notes that it is not an "M is for Matey" type of treatment, suggesting it offers a unique approach to alphabet learning.
- Goodreads: Praised for its "hilarious text" and "adventurous animal pirates," the book is described as an "irresistible book for alphabet-learning, pirate-loving kids everywhere".
- BookLoons Reviews: Highlights the book's engaging storyline and Henry Cole's "rollicking, sweetly comic watercolors" that capture pirate details like deck swabbing and walking the plank.
Author Background: June Sobel is a children's book author born in New York City and raised in Oceanside, New York. She graduated from Skidmore College and earned an MFA in Painting from Stanford University. Her interest in picture books was renewed after the birth of her son, leading her to create books that combine word and picture magic for children and adults alike. Her other notable works include "B Is for Bulldozer" and "The Goodnight Train" series.
In summary, "Shiver Me Letters" is a fun and educational picture book that combines pirate adventure with alphabet learning, making it an engaging read for young children. The book's unique approach and creative illustrations have received positive reviews from critics and readers alike.