Quick Rundown:
Author and Illustrator: Mark Teague
Grades: PK-2
Blurb: “Some kids spend their summer vacation at camp. Some kids spend it at Grandma’s house. Wallace Bleff spent his out west…on a ride, a rope, and a roundup he’ll never forget!”
About: Wallace Bleff is sharing how he spent his summer vacation. He started by saying his parents needed a rest due to his wild imagination so he was put on a train and headed westbound to his Aunt Fern’s. He didn’t get far before he was captured by cowboys and taken to their camp, but don’t worry he wrote to his aunt to let her know where he was so she wouldn’t worry. The cowboys needed some help so Wallace agreed. He was given some new clothes and soon learned how to rope, ride, make a fire, and was soon a fine cowboy.
After the roundup was over, Wallace called Aunt Fern and she invited the cowboys to come with Wallace. It was a lovely day to have a barbeque but a stampede almost ruined that! Have no fear! Cowboy Wallace would save the day.
Discussion Questions:
-Why did Wallace’s parents send him to Aunt Fern’s for the summer?
-Do you think this actually happened to Wallace? Why or why not?
-What happened first: Wallace attended a barbeque at Aunt Fern’s or Wallace learned how to start a fire?
-What is happening in the last picture?
Activities to try with the book:
-Roping Basics: Learning some roping basics. On YouTube you will find numerous videos for how to tie a lasso knot and how to throw your lasso. One I found is called Roping Basics with Donnell Brown (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2REsVGanRw) breaks down the rope and throwing.
–Wanted: Have you seen Toy Story? In the beginning, Andy has created a Wanted poster for his villain. You could do the same with paper and colors or paper and a picture you’ve taken. You could dress up and create a funny reason for why you or the person wanted is wanted. For example- Wanted: Jimmy for not cleaning their room.
–Writing Prompt: Write a tall tale about your summer vacation.
Other books by Mark Teague:
-Fly!
-Dear Mrs. LaRue: Letters from Obedience School
-The Secret Shortcut
-Pigsty
Reading Through the Library 