Tag: We Are the Keystones

I was at a school for the first time this school year the other day. They were explaining to me the ‘new’ method that they were teaching students on how to write compelling paragraphs. For reference, this class was on-level and in eighth grade. For further reference, all of this is coming forward to a review of We Are the Keystones: Animals That Hold Habitats Together. This is an oversized illustrated book that uses inlay art on its cover, set against the silhouettes of some of the animals that young audiences will meet inside its pages. The cover evokes a Native American vibe due to the massive amount of Earthy tones that are set against a black background. At the same time, the cover encourages readers to trace the meandering rabbit path like Billy from The Family Circus. It’s also oversized, about 40% wider than other illustrated books this young age is accustomed to. The book commands your attention, and pays homage to the three tenants of selling and teaching that my school system just ‘discovered’.

Oversized for a reason and it works