How I Learned Geography: Caldecott Review #3

This is one of my favorite picture books! How I Learned Geography, written and illustrated by Uri Shulevitz is a beautiful example of creating a memoir from a moment in time. This book was a 2009 Caldecott Honor recipient. As a 5th grade classroom teacher who tackles geography and writing during the school year, I find this book creates teaching moments that must not be missed. The subject of geography can be dry to a 10 year old who has never traveled more than 100 miles from their hometown. This book encourages children to view a map with a new perspective. To view a map as a world of possibilities is a wonderful stepping stone in a geography unit. The book allows a class to discuss their dream destinations and then use themes of geography to explore these destinations.

The autobiographical elements of this book will also touch students. The author's story of displacement and poverty will help some students to identify with these elements in their own lives. The ability to appreciate knowledge in the face of adversity may even inspire students facing these obstacles. The father's choice between food for the body and food for the soul will resonant with parents and educators. The long term effects of this decision should be discussed with students, if only to show that all events do not immediately alter or lives- in fact some repercussions are only visible in a life lived.

The creation of a memoir from a single event can be used in writing instruction. Many 5th grade students are overwhelmed when writing personal narratives because they feel they must write about intricate experiences. This book can be used as an example of a single, simple moment that can be expanded upon in their writings.

The illustrations are water colored in palates that reflect the moment and place. The tropical blues and purples, the neutrals of the desert, and the vibrant colors of the big cities are all vividly used by the author/illustrator. Uri Shulevitz won the Caldecott Medal for his illustration of The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship. He was a Caldecott Honor recipient for his books Snow and The Treasure. His other books include So Sleepy Story, When I Wore My Sailor Suit, and Dawn (a favorite of mine).