This book has always held a special place in my heart. My Scottish grandmother gave it to when I was 6 or 7, and for years she and my father would read it too me. I can still hear her reading in her thick Scottish brogue,
"There's room galore. Och, come awa' in! There's room for one more, Always room for one more!"
These memories have become even more precious to me of late, because for about 5 years now she has suffered from severe diabetes-related memory loss, and can no longer communicate clearly.
I ran across this book recently when I was looking for a Caldecott Medal winner at the local library. As a child, I had no idea that it had won any kind of award, and it was a special treat to run into the book again.
The book "Always Room for One More" was written by Sorche Nic Leodhas , and illustrated by Nonny Hogrogian. It tells the story of Lachie MacLachlan, his wife and 10 bairns (children), as they invite every traveling passerby into their home. No matter how many people come, Lachie continues to call out and invite travelers into his home. Finally, one day the little house falls down because so many people are in it, but all the neighbors and visitors help build Lachie another house.
The story is a popular Scottish song, that has been passed down for generations, but this is the first time that it appeared in print. It is a story of hospitality and community, and its sing-song rhythm is part of what makes it appealing for children. As you may have noticed from my opening quote, this book does incorporate some Scottish words and dialect into the text. There is a small glossary in the back of the book, but it is possible to read and understand the main story without the glossary. If you are using this book as a read aloud in class, it could serve as a good introduction to talking about dialects and how people talk differently in different places. It would also make a great addition to any international folktale collection.
The illustrations are done using pen and ink cross-hatching, and sponge painting. They are truly unique. I don't know if I have ever seen another picture book using the same style, but it is very catching. I would suggest anyone who is going to read this book aloud to practice a couple of times, because it takes a little bit to get the rhythm of the story, but once you get it this book can serve as a wonderful read aloud.
One of the books I reviewed, "That Book Woman" by Heather Hanson is written in southern dialect from the Appalachians. I tried to read it out-loud and I just couldn't get down that southern twang, so I definitely agree with your suggestion to practice! I think it's so great to introduce a variety of dialects to children in the classroom to show the diversity of the English language. You've just introduced me to another book I can use for that purpose!
ReplyDeleteIt is always nice when you can relate to a story personally. Art work on the front of the book is certainly unique and interesting. Is there a deeper message other than "hospitality and community"? I always love to hear about other people's backgrounds because I don't really know much about mine. This could also be a good lead in for a unit on multi-culturalism etc.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a fun read. It's always great when you form a personal relationship with your books. It allows you to put that extra effort into reading it and you're able to discover all the author had intended when writing the story.
ReplyDeleteHey Gina, I'm not exactly sure how to describe the message, but it is definetely a great one, I'd advise that you read it and decide for yourself because it is a pretty short book.
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to share with you that I was able to read this story to my grandmother when I went home to visit her before she passed away last week. This and Hattie and the Wild Wild Waves. The most alert I saw her was when we were reading this book. It really was a wonderful memory to have.
ReplyDelete