Learning from Picture Books – I LOVE SHARKS, TOO by Leanne Shirtliffe and Lorenzo Montatore

Sharks are a popular topic in my classroom so I knew my students would enjoy this one! At their request, we read it aloud twice in the same day. I'm especially happy to introduce this book to you since Leanne Shirtliffe is one of my writing critique partners.

 

Summary from the publisher:

Stevie likes sharks. Like a LOT. In response to everything his mom asks him, Stevie has an excellent shark fact in response.

“Brush your teeth, Stevie.”

“Mom, Mako sharks don’t have to brush their teeth because they are covered in fluoride.”

From morning to bedtime—you would think this might totally wear his mom down. But guess who likes, sharks, too?

The book is filled with tons of fun facts, and also information about different shark breeds.

I Love Sharks, Too was written by Leanne Shirtliffe and illustrated by Lorenzo Montatore. It was published in 2017 by Sky Pony Press.

Opening:

“Stevie loves sharks. He loves sharks more than he loves pizza. He loves sharks so much, he wishes he were one.”

My Thoughts as a Writer:

The concept of showing the shark equivalent of a kid’s ordinary activities is a great hook. The pattern set up by Mom’s nagging and Stevie’s shark response makes you want to turn the page to find out what Stevie’s going to come up with next. The bright, cartoon-style illustrations add to the fun of this story. 

My Thoughts as a Teacher:

The shark facts were interesting and caught the attention of my kindergarten students. I think grade one and two students would also enjoy the humor of Stevie’s shark responses as well as the facts and details. Because of the fact component, I think it would have been nice to have some realistic pictures of sharks at the back with the additional shark facts, but this is a great book to get kids interested in doing more shark research on their own. 

Ages: 5 - 8

Grades: K - 3

Themes:  sharks, daily activities, family

Activities:

What is your favourite sea animal? Find out a fact about your animal and make a drawing or poster to show how it could relate to your day.

What is your favourite page in the story? Why?

This book has an excellent teacher’s guide with lots of fun activities, like finding your shark name or drawing a cartoony shark.

Check out Leanne Shirtliffe's shark-themed Pinterest board for more fun.