Title:  Paul Bunyan

Retold by: Steven Kellogg

Illustrator: Stephen Kellogg

Medium: Picture Book, Watercolors (I assume)

Genre: Folklore

Summary: This is the story of Paul Bunyan and his big blue Ox. Paul was born a very large child. He grew up and became a lumberjack. He lead a team across the country, from Maine to California, hacking down trees. Cities and towns were build in place of the trees. 

Literary Elements: 

• Language: The writing is very simple and easy to read. It does contain some complex words such as dismay, colossal, and gusto. It also has some made up words such as Gumberoos. Overall, the story is written quite smoothly with nice transitions. 
• Structure: The structure is very ordered and sequential. It is a recount of Paul's travels, so it is very episodic. 
• Theme: Teamwork, patriotism, bravery, strength, happiness, helpfulness, adventure
• Illustrations: The illustrations reflect what is happening on each page of the story. The pictures are so detailed that they are almost too much for the eyes. You have to look at the page for a few minutes to see everything within each picture. 

Evaluation: I chose this book because it is a classic tale that I remember from childhood. I also love how detailed and intricate the illustrations are. 

Social Justice Element: I feel that the social justice elements of this book are depicted in Paul's interactions with the people from each town that he stayed in as well as how he treated his employees and fellow man. There is a good natured outlook element within this book. 

Follow-Up Activity: I would like each student to pick another folktale retold by Steven Kellogg to read and then share the story with the rest of the class.