Originally published in 1989, “The Mitten” is a Ukrainian folktale adapted and illustrated by Jan Brett.
Happy 2022! Now that winter has officially arrived, Dr. Toughlove thought the time was right to review a winter classic, “The Mitten” by Jan Brett. This exquisitely illustrated book, which was first published in 1989, is a Ukrainian Folktale that was adapted and illustrated by Jan Brett. Ms. Brett is a prolific children’s book writer and illustrator, who often uses animals as her protagonists.
This folktale is a story about a boy named Nicki, who wants his grandmother, Baba, to knit him some white mittens. At first, Baba did not want to knit white mittens. “If you drop one in the snow,” she warned, “you’ll never find it” (p. 4). However, Nicki prevailed and Baba made them.
Predictably, Nicki lost one of his mittens, and a series of animals nestle into the mitten to stay warm on a cold, snowy day. What makes this book unique is the way that Jan Brett illustrates the story. She uses a technique known as foreshadowing to show the reader a picture of which animal will nestle into the mitten next, before it is revealed in the text of the story. This practice is particularly effective with toddlers and preschoolers who are beginning to acquire picture sequencing skills. The reader can pose questions, (“What animal will go into the mitten next?” “Why do you think so?” “Where is the clue?”). Using illustrations to help tell the story is the hallmark of a great children’s picture book, and Jan Brett uses this strategy to perfection. This is probably why, after over 30 years, “The Mitten” is still a perennial favorite.
In addition to reading the book aloud, there are a plethora of resources on the internet for any follow-up activities for parents and educators. There are you-tube videos, downloadable coloring pages, craft projects, writing prompts, etc. So, if your child/student really loves this book there are ample opportunities to continue the conversation about its content.
The underlying theme of the love between Nicki and his grandmother Baba is central to the book and can be discussed with children as well. Many conversations can ensue about “The Mitten” and as usual, the children will see things in the book that the adults might overlook.
So, on a cold winter day, “The Mitten” is the perfect book to read and explore with young children. “The Mitten” is recommended for children aged 1-3, but Dr. Toughlove has found that some older preschoolers and kindergarteners enjoy it too. Copies are available at the Queen Anne’s County Library.
Happy New Year!