Exclamation Mark for Picture Book Friday!

It's Picture Book Friday!  Notice my judicious use of an exclamation mark.  Well, exclamation marks are in abundant supply in the picture book I am profiling this week.  Who would have thought that punctuation would make such a compelling topic for a picture book?  But in the capable hands of Amy Krouse Rosenthal, even the lowly period gets it's day.

So go on, get excited about punctuation.  You know you want to!

Title:       Exclamation Mark

Author:   Amy Krouse Rosenthal

Target:    Kindergarten - Grade 3

What this book is about:
Well, this is a story about an exclamation mark who doesn’t know where he fits in, period.  It is not until he meets question mark, and answers his inquiries, that he realizes how great an exclamation mark can be.  Wow!

Why I love this book:
As always, Rosenthal’s play on words is spot on.  “He stood out from the beginning.” “he went off... to make his mark.”  Brilliant.

I also love the illustrations by Tom Lichtenheld which are simple and yet so effective, from the lined paper background to the dots full of expression.

While the story wonderfully illustrates when to use different forms of punctuation, it is also a story about liking yourself.  The best picture books always disguise learning in a creative and entertaining narrative.

Who this book is for:
Great for kids learning about punctuation, but those who are already well versed in the topic will also love the story and the play on words.

Final thoughts:
Have you found your inner exclamation point?  I think I’m still questioning.

To purchase this book, click on the following link to connect to Amazon: Exclamation Mark  A portion of this purchase goes to support this blog at no cost to you.  Yippee!

Need more convincing?  Here is a video that shares even more of the story.