“‘The honey is sweet, and so is knowledge…’”

Author: Patricia Polacco
Title: Thank you, Mr. Falker
Publisher: Philomel Books, 1998.

Summary: This story follows the childhood of author Patricia Polacco as she struggles in school, especially learning how to read until she meets a special teacher who completely changes reading for young Polacco.

Strengths: This is such a testimony to the struggle to learn how to read and how rewarding it is to find someone or some people who believe you throughout the process. Both Polacco’s grandparents and her teacher Mr. Falker believe that Patricia is special and is capable of learning. I think children learning how to read or somehow struggling with school will certainly appreciate this story. I think adults sometimes forget how hard it is to learn how to read and this is a great reminder to them and a wonderful encouragement to all children. My favorite quote in the book comes from Polacco’s grandfather who says, “The honey is sweet, and so is knowledge, but knowledge is like the bee who made the honey, it has to be chased through the pages of a book!” It is truly a wonderful story of struggle, triumph, accomplishment, and gratitude.

Classroom Use: Besides a wonderful read aloud or encouragement to struggling students I think this book provides the proper occasion for students to reflect and appreciate those special teachers in their lives. This book may encourage teachers to have students write a thank you note to a teacher that has helped them. I know both the teacher and the student will appreciate this process.

(image from Amazon.com)