Woolbur isn't like the other sheep. His Mom and Dad beg him to follow the crowd, instead of doing the outlandish things Woolbur finds more fun. Grandpaa sheep tries to tell them Woolbur will be just fine, but his parents INSIST he act like the other sheep. Woolbur doesn't want to change to be boring like the other sheep in his class, so he teaches his classmate all his crazy ways. Is teaches students that is great to stand out! You don't have to follow like everyone else just to pacify others (as long as no one is getting hurt) Audience: primaryGenre: fantasy (talking animals)Golden Sower 2010 Primary HonorPre-reading strategy: first lines (students read the beginning sentences from a book and then make predictions) using cadence and repetitionThis is a fun story about a sheep named Woolbur who is free spirited and thinks very differently about what he should have to do for his "chores." For each of 6 days Woolbur has a different idea about how he should stay with the flock and shear, card, spin, dye and weave wool unlike the rest of the sheep. Each night, Woolbur's parents are concerned about how Woolbur is acting differently and is not following the flock. Each night, Grandpa tells the parents not to worry. At the end of the book, the flock is now following Woolbur and he has to find a new way to be unique. I would read the first line "'Woolbur had trouble with the herd today.' said Maa" and predict and discuss the use of repeated lines with cadence. We would also note the repeated lines that follow. "'What happened?' asked Paa." "'Don't worry,' said Grandpaa." I would divide the book into the 6 different chores/days and have the students find the repeated lines. At the end, we would discuss the role of the Grandpaa and use text to self connections about family.
What do You think about Woolbur (2008)?
A funny book about being different - perfect for those kids who just have to be themselves.
—Jacqueline
Cute story about standing out from the crowd and embracing individuality.
—googlepants700
Teaches a great lesson about being a leader and not a follower.
—thiciano
Fabulous picture book reminding children to be themselves.
—Jay
