Module 4 Poetry: This Little Piggy and other Rhymes to Sing and Play

This Little Piggy and other Rhymes to Sing and Play
Yolen, Jane. 2004. This Little Piggy and other Rhymes to Sing and Play. Illustrated by Will Hildenbrand. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Candlewick Press.

Jane Yolen has collaborated with Will Hildenbrand and Adam Stemple to create a collection of classic lap songs, finger plays, clapping games and pantomime rhymes guaranteed to amuse and entertain readers of all ages. From the introduction with Peek-a-Boo to the clapping games of Patty Cake, Yolen fills the book with as many games, songs and rhymes as she can. Navigating the book is easy with a complete table of contents and even a first lines index. Hildenbrand’s mixed media illustrations add a tender, whimsical feel to the text in addition to providing visual instructions on how to play many of the games. A delightful CD of numerous of the songs is included, which allows opportunities to learn unfamiliar tunes and assist the tone deaf. The book, which is perfect for parents, grandparents and anyone who loves children, is organized into sections such as Upsie, Downsie; Bumpety, Bumpety; Wiggle, Wiggle; Clap, Clap, Clap; and Take a Bow. Each section includes songs and chants complete with regional and historical information and trivia about the rhyme. Variations on the verses and instructions on how to act out the dance, claps or games translate to hours of fun for children and adults. This collection of timeless rhymes is a must have for anyone with small children.