Michele Sobel Spirn

“The Know-Nothings Talk Turkey” is an amusing transitional chapter book for readers. Comparable to “Amelia Bedelia,” the characters in the story took a literal approach on everything about Thanksgiving. Thus, the language is very comical to students. Specifically, when Doris told his friends that they had to serve a turkey for Thanksgiving dinner, the four characters endlessly tried to feed the turkey, except he wouldn’t even sit down (hence “serving” the turkey). Similarly, the characters were silly and foolish. As Doris informed his friends about the holiday, Norris excitedly replied, “I must buy a tree and get gifts for you and Boris and Morris.” The characters make funny mistakes that children would laugh about. I think the main idea of this story is to celebrate and recognize Thanksgiving in a motivating way.… (meer)

This story is about four friends who do not know very much. It is Boris's birthday and he wants his friends to remember, so he gives them hints, but they don't catch on. Doris finally sees his birthday on the calendar and plans him a surprise party. It's too late though, Boris already planned his own party. So they end his party and start a new party.

When I read this story, I started getting tongue tied trying to say the names so many times. It's a fun book and kids just learning to read would love it!

This book can be used when learning about poems. It has a lot of repetition.… (meer)