The Sheep Go on Strike

Gr 1–4—This witty, tongue-in-cheek picture book cleverly translates social studies terminology into easy-to-understand concepts. The sheep on the farm decide to strike since they are tired of always being the ones to give up their fleece. The author prompts critical thinking and inquisition by writing, "Why don't they make cat-hair sweaters, duck-down socks, or donkey-hair britches?" Vocabulary is enhanced through terms such as brutality, revolution, brouhaha, and refrain. The book is a good lead-in to American history, the Boston Tea Party, and other historical standoffs. Large, colorful illustrations set the stage for immediate student interest. Dumont creates mood by giving the animals angry, confused, and content expressions, as well as using emotionally charged terminology (for instance, a sheepdog is accused of police brutality. The art depicts everyday settings and, by the end of the book, more comical ones. This title is a great addition, as it helps children understand many of the ideals upon which America was founded.—Tracey Wong, P.S. 54/Fordham Bedford Academy, Bronx, NY