Books for Dialogic Reading: Harry the Dirty Dog

Harry the Dirty Dog  

This book is full of engaging pictures showing Harry getting dirty in different settings around town. There are a variety of settings, lots of action, and many details to notice, and talk about. Older children may want to talk about the action (Harry getting dirty in many creative ways) while younger children may want to talk about the objects (rakes, bathtubs, birds, trucks, trains, trucks, wagons, etc.)  Harry is available in Spanish.

After you see what interests your child...

Comment and wait:

The dog is going down the slide.
The boy and his mother are watching the train.
This little girl has a little purse.

Ask questions and wait:

What are the boy and his mom doing?
How many dogs do you see in this picture?
Why is the dog in the bath tub?

Respond by adding more:

Child says: Dog is dirty! 
Adult responds: He is so dirty! He's been playing in the mud!
Child says: A choo choo train!
Adult responds: Yes, there's a train and the dog is watching it.
Child says: He's going up the ladder.
Adult responds: Up the ladder he goes! He's carrying the boards up to the roof.

Tell us about your favorite books.  Why does this book get children talking?  What do children talk about when they look at the book? mmaddox@walearning.com