Babymouse Goes For The Gold

Bibliography: Holm, Jennifer L. and Holm, Matthew. 2016. BABYMOUSE GOES FOR THE GOLD. New York: Random House Children's. ISBN 9780307931634

Plot Summary: Babymouse mother tells her she has to take up a sport. So Babymouse signs up for the swim team at school. Babymouse figures that it does not take a lot of effort to swim and she learns very quickly that is not true. Her team is named, "Shrimps" and they are a mix of animals: panda, goat, penguin, rabbit, and a bird. Their coach is a lobster. Each week, the Shrimps compete in swim meets and Babymouse shows up but doesn't quite get the hang of swimming competitively. Babymouse decides to quit the team but they convince her to stay because the best thing about being on the swim team is the friendship.

Critical Analysis: The Holm siblings (Jennifer and Matthew) do a good job of writing a story that is filled with humorous moments. This is the 20th book in the Babymouse series and in this story, Babymouse has an experience that resembles the kid whose parents wants them to get active. The panels are medium size and have bold words that make it easy for the elementary reader to see.  The illustrations contain details that draw the reader and allow them to imagine what is happening in the story. Jennifer and Matthew also do a good job writing the themes of teamwork, encouragement, just to name a few.  There is also the aspect of reading how Babymouse uses her imagination to get through a situation. A funny story that has relatable content for kids. It is a good read for kids in grades two through sixth.

Review Excerpt(s): I was unable to locate a review by the leading literature publications.  In my opinion, when this particular graphic novel was published, book critics were trying to handle their biases about graphic novels being regarded as "real" books.

Connections:

This story can be used to discuss sports and the characteristics or traits that a person has to engage in them. Talk about tenacity and grit.

This can be used as an introduction to the Olympics specifically summer. 

This review are my own words and are part of a graduate studies class at Sam Houston State University.