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Cover of Extra Yarn A Caldecott Honor Award Winner by Mac Barnett

Extra Yarn A Caldecott Honor Award Winner by Mac Barnett

by Mac Barnett

Book Details

Publisher:Those Books
Published:2012
Pages:40
Format:paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0061953385

Reading Info

Age Range:12-18

About This Book

This looks like an ordinary box full of ordinary yarn. But it turns out it isn’t.

Our Review

This charming picture book weaves a magical tale about a girl named Annabelle who discovers a mysterious box of yarn that never seems to run out, transforming her drab, monochrome town into a vibrant tapestry of colorful sweaters, hats, and cozies. Barnett's storytelling combines with Jon Klassen's distinctive illustrations to create a modern fable that celebrates generosity and imagination, earning its Caldecott Honor through beautifully understated artwork that perfectly complements the spare, powerful narrative. The simple premise unfolds with wonderful logic as Annabelle knits for everyone and everything in her community, from people and dogs to buildings and mailboxes, creating a visual transformation that young readers will delight in tracking across the pages.

What makes this story truly special is how it balances whimsy with deeper themes about the power of kindness and the magic of creativity, offering layers that will resonate differently with various age groups. Parents will appreciate the subtle messages about sharing and community, while children will be captivated by the growing visual warmth that spreads across the town and the satisfying conclusion when a greedy archduke tries to claim the magical yarn for himself. This modern classic demonstrates how small acts of generosity can literally color our world, leaving readers with a warm, cozy feeling that lasts long after the final page.

Themes

Juvenile Fiction

Subjects

Juvenile Fiction