Picture Book illustrated by Chris Raschka

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Juster, Norman, 2005. The Hello, Goodbye Window. Ill. by Chris Raschka. Michael di Capua Books.
ISBN 0786809140

2. PLOT SUMMARY
A little girl's Nanna and Poppy have a special "Hello, Goodbye Window" in the kitchen of their home. Life happens on both sides of the window; family stories are shared along with giggles, stars are counted, and good mornings are said to the garden. The little girl and her grandparents experience everyday happy moments including making breakfast and gardening, until the girl's parents pick her up to go home. The little girl imagines a time when she might be a Nanna herself, and she envisions her own special Hello, Goodbye Window.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Juster's writing flows well in this story, with simple yet expressive text. Reaching its youngest listeners, the text allows readers to think about their own pleasant experiences with grandparents. Feelings come alive through the words and the use of language, such as Poppy saying in a real loud voice out the window, "HELLO, WORLD! WHAT HAVE YOU GOT FOR US TODAY?"
Raschka's loose and colorful watercolors help to bring the story to life. The illustrations are playful and joyous, and they encompass the text, enhancing the story. The looseness of lines and details in the illustrations correspond directly to the happy text, allowing readers to think of a simpler time.

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
Starred Review from The School Library Journal: "The artwork is at once lively and energetic."
Starred Review from Booklist: "Raschka's swirling lines, swaths, and dabs of fruity colors seem especially vibrant..."

5. CONNECTIONS
* Talk about the role grandparents play in our lives and the special things we do with them.
* Read other picture books about relationships with grandparents, including:
Uslnader, Arlene. That's What Grandparents are For. ISBN 0939217600
Hamanaka, Sheila. Grandparent's Song. ISBN 0688178529
Gritz, Ona. Tangerines and Tea, My Grandparents and Me: An Alphabet Book. ISBN 0810958716