Pierre & Paul: Avalanche!

Gr 2-5–Paul and Pierre are best friends and explorers who decide to climb a grand mountain but forget the most important item for traveling: snacks! The two friends then go on a different journey to create a sandwich fit for young mountaineers, exploring French and English words as they go about their task. Instead of simply telling a story in English and then translating the French words underneath, Adderson uses a combination of English and French sentences, dialogue, and everyday words. Typically, Pierre speaks in French and Paul in English, with different actions or items being repeated in both languages so readers understand what is happening. Carter’s illustrations also help readers understand the story by providing visuals with both types of words, so that it is generally clear what word goes with what object or action. The illustrations are colorful and fun, filled with details that are humorous and imaginative. Together, Adderson and Carter have created a blend of two languages and an adventure.