Big Al

Title: Big AL

Author: Andrew Clements

Genre: Fiction 

Ages: 5-12

Summary: This book is about a big scary fish named al who has no friends. He tries to make friends but everyone is afraid of him until he helps them and then everyone learns that he is nice. 

About the author: Was born in Camden, New Jersey in 1949. He was inspired by a high school English teacher and went to Northwestern University. Later in life he started writing and illustrating children books.

Theme/Skill: Be friendly 

Pre-reading activity: Think of a time you were afraid of something or something. How did you overcome it? 

Post-reading activity: Make your own Big Al. Color and decorate him.

This is a great children book to discuss friendships and working together. It shows that looks are not everything.