Book Review: THIS IS NOT MY HAT by Jon Klassen

Bibliography
Klassen, Jon. 2012. THIS IS NOT MY HAT. Somerville, MA: Candlewick. ISBN: 978-0-7636-5599-0

Plot Summary
THIS IS NOT MY HAT is told from the first person view of a little fish who stole a hat from a much bigger fish. As the little fish narrates his daring escape, the illustrations show the progression of the bigger fish as he gives chase. The end of the story is ambiguous when the big fish enters the little fish's hideout and then emerges alone with his hat back.

Critical Analysis
Although a simple plot, this storybook is filled with tension and excitement. The narration from the little fish contradicts what the illustrations show of the big fish. This adds suspense to the story because the reader knows more than the cocky little fish. For example: "And even if he does notice that it's gone, he probably won't know it was me who took it" (Klassen, 2012). This line is followed by the big fish narrowing his eyes.
The illustrations add to the story just as much as the narration. Without them, the story's ending is completely different. According to the text, the little fish gets away with stealing the hat! In reality, the big fish shows his side of the story through the art and this is what give the story a thrilling atmosphere.

Review Excerpts
*Winner of the Caldecott Medal, 2012
*A Junior Library Guild Selection

Connections
This picture storybook is an excellent example of how to involve children in the storytelling process. After each page, the reader can pause and point out the picture of the big fish and ask what the children think is going to happen next. Also, since the ending is open ended, the children can make assumptions on what happened to the little fish.
As an end of the day activity, children can color their own "stolen" hat. After they have finished coloring, the librarian or parents can help them cut it out and attach a headband to the drawing so the children can where their hat as they leave the library.