THE PIGEON FINDS A HOTDOG! by Mo Willems

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Willems, Mo.  2004.  The Pigeon Finds a Hotdog!  New York: Hyperion Books for Children.  ISBN 0786818697

2. PLOT SUMMARY

A sassy pigeon with tons of attitude and great voice does not hide his joy when it finds a hotdog it can't wait to eat.  A small duckling asking questions and preventing him from devouring his savory hotdog annoys the pigeon to great length.  This hilarious event ends with Pigeon learning to share.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The pastel colors and unpolished details in the illustrations may cause many to overlook "The Pigeon Finds a Hotdog."  The images are simple, basic, and childlike.  The background is absent of any scenery, mostly light colored pages and an oversized pigeon outlined by a thick charcoal line.  The illustrations are underwhelming, but the characters are packed with PUNCH!  

The main character is a sassy, sarcastic pigeon who reflects what many toddlers (and some adults) may feel when they are about to enjoy a treat until suddenly . . . someone, in this case a small chick, lurks alongside to steal the joy.  The dialog between the hot tempered pigeon and the inquiring little duck is entertaining indeed, and Willems display of emotion in the Pigeon's eye(s) is perfect.  Pigeon even delves into a monologue where the reader can hear pigeon's thoughts and unreserved feelings about the inquisitive duck.  

4. AWARDS & REVIEW EXCERPTS

Golden Archer Award, 2007 - 2008

SMART Book Award, 2009

Kirkus (Kirkus Reviews, April 1, 2004 (Vol. 72, No. 7))
The determined pigeon of the Caldecott Honor-winning Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! (2003) returns in a more subdued performance that will nevertheless appeal to fans of the first.

Publishers Weekly (Publishers Weekly)

Through voice bubbles, body language, and expressive sizes and shapes of type, Willems crafts a comical give-and-take between the characters. He sketches both iconic birds in decisive crayony lines and tints the pages with smooth pastel hues. Readers of all ages won't be able to resist miming the sly conversation in this satisfying sequel. 

5. CONNECTIONS

*Lead a discussion on the importance of sharing.

*Complete activities from: The Pigeon Teacher's Guide

*Read and compare other books written and illustrated by Mo Willems at www.pigeonpresents.com/grownup.aspx