Picture book creators know that February is nonfiction month. All of us know that today is Valentine’s Day. So I’m featuring a nonfiction Perfect Picture Book that features a heart. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Title: The Snail with the Right Heart: A True Story
Written By: Maria Popova
Illustrated By: Ping Zhu
Publisher/Date: Enchanted Lion Books/2021
Suitable for Ages: 4-8 and older
Themes/Topics: snails, differences, nonfiction, diversity, genetics, science, poetry, philosophy, loneliness
Opening:
Long ago, before half the stars that speckle the sky were born and before the mountains rose reaching for them, a giant ocean covered the Earth. One day, something strange happened in the giant ocean – a change so mysterious and magnificent that it was given a special name: mutation.
Brief Synopsis: The true story of an unusual snail.
Links to Resources:
· Try these kid-friendly snail crafts;
· Read Popova’s post about this book on The Marginalian;
· Discover more snail facts.
Why I Like this Book:
With lovely, lyrical language, Popova shares the true story of a very rare being, a snail whose shell, and internal organs, were opposite those of the vast majority of its brethren. While the shells of common snails spiral left, this snail’s shell spiraled right. This, Popova explains, meant that the snail, named Jeremy, was unable to mate with other snails. He was lonesome. He was lonesome, that is, until the scientist caring for Jeremy discovered not one, but two fellow snails whose shells, and internal organs, were also inverted. Although Jeremy and one of those snails ultimately mated, Jeremy died before meeting his offspring, none of which shared his unique physique.
The text of The Snail with the Right Heart is longer than that of most picture books, and the subject matter, including a discussion of recessive genes and snail reproduction, may be difficult for younger children to understand. But I think everyone will enjoy the message that the world needs all types of beings, and that our recessive traits, over time, may bloom again.
Zhu’s illustrations are true works of art, featuring gorgeous spreads filled with lush greens, blues, yellows, and oranges.
A Note about Craft:
Popova publishes a periodic newsletter, The Marginalian, in which she explores the works of philosophers, poets, and picture book creators. This is her debut picture book.
This Perfect Picture Book entry is being added to Susanna Hill’s Perfect Picture Book list. Check out the other great picture books featured there!
Wander, Ponder, Write 