"Can I Play Too?" by Mo Willems

Can I Play Too? is Mo Willems masterfully illustrates and writes about the inner workings of a friendship in this tale of three friends playing catch. Part of the Elephant and Piggie series, Willems has chosen to explore the recognition of differences that define us all. As the story unfolds, Elephant and Piggie are beginning a game of catch. Before the two friends begin, a small snake approaches. The snake asks to join the game and this request is met with misunderstanding. Piggie and Elephant, eager to include Snake in the game, are unable to grasp how Snake will be able to participate. "You do not have arms", says Piggie. Piggie and Elephant will not accept the thought of giving up, so they try to throw the ball at Snake. Several attempts lead to a frustrated group of friends, but at last Piggie has the best idea of all! The last frame of the book depicts Piggie and Elephant throwing Snake up into the air. "I love playing catch with my friends!"

I am astounded at how effectively Willems uses this small tale to encourage young readers to never look at physical attributes as any indication of whether or not one can participate. The message of this story is as resounding with adults as it is with children. I find that the use of animal characters is particularly appropriate. Explicit representations of wonderful children with physical disabilities are hidden behind the animals, yet as emerging educators we may choose to discuss this similarity with our students. The yearning for friendship and belonging are present in every child, yet unfortunately some individuals judge solely on outward appearance. I believe that the Snake is a character we can locate in every classroom. The timing of such a work is pitch perfect. I am eager to share this book with my Kindergarten classroom. They will undoubtedly enjoy the silliness of the characters with the colorful illustrations. I will be sure to allow time to explain what Snake may look like in real life. Only after learning the identity of Snake, children have the exposure to never give up on sharing with friends of all shapes and sizes.

"Accessible, appealing, and full of authentic emotions about what makes friendships tick, these titles will put a contemporary shone on easy reader collections." (Booklist - starred review)

Willems blog can be found at http://mowillemsdoodles.blogspot.com/