We are beginning a unit of study using the work of Patricia Polacco—a favorite children’s nonfiction
author and illustrator. We will be studying many of her books to find out the techniques she uses as
a writer. Polacco writes about friends, family relationships, interactions between older and younger
people, overcoming personal challenges, and multiculturalism. Her engaging stories and beautiful
illustrations make her a perfect writing teacher to learn from.
During this unit, your child may be bringing home various Patricia Polacco books and books related to
their topic of interest. Please read them with your child and make note of the words and illustrations.
Point out how she varies the print size and uses illustrations that fill up the entire page. Make note of
how she builds suspense and creates memorable characters inspired by people from her own life.
Help your child make connections to the topics Patricia Polacco writes about by helping them examine
their own world and things they may be curious about.
The titles of the books we will be using throughout this unit are listed below. Should you have the
opportunity to visit the library, you may want to get some books that will help your child learn more
about his or her topic. Have fun learning about Patricia Polacco together!

Thank you, Mr. Falker
Rotten Richie and the Ultimate Dare
John Philip Duck
Emma Kate
When Lightning Comes in a Jar
Thunder Cake
Just Plain Fancy
Something About Hensley’s
Chicken Sunday
Babushka’s Doll