Howard B. Wigglebottom Listens to His Heart (2008) Is a (Contemporary Realistic Fiction) Picture Book Written by Howard Binkow  and Illustrated by Susan F. Cornelison. You are able to visit the publishers website and see how there are many  interactive things to do in reagards to the book and other publishings. There are blogs, lessons, out-loud readings, games, e-cards and many more fun and educational material.

     At first I was intrigued by the name, I understand that you aren't suppose to judge a book by the cover but it happens. Then I found out that Binkow does have other books with Mr. Wigglebottom such as Learns to listen, and Learns about Bullies. The illustrator uses cartoon art in the entire book and the characters are all sorts of different animal figures. The bright colors make it interesting to look at. The use of different characters is just showing that the world is made up of many different people. The illustrator uses bright blues and greens filling up the page with Howard B. Wigglebottom is happy in doing what he loves to do (p 5,7). Then the pages have more white/ negative space when he is upset with not doing anything right. The characters do have bright clothing throughout the book to keep childrens minds busy. Throughout the book the text is place in and around the pictures. There are also key words that are bold (examples: LOVE! DANCING!). This shows emphaisis for kids so they understand what important words are and how you can pronounciate them differently.

     This book is Contemporary realistic fiction because these events happen in life to many children everyday. “Contemporary realism explores a number of themes, including growing up, peer and family relationships, and other contemporary, sometimes sensitive issues (Thomas Crisp). It is also a picture book obviously “They can enrich and extend children’s worlds and provide experiences (through picture and print) that allow children to confirm their own worth, learn about others, and learn about the world.(Thomas Crisp)” I would say that the message in the book really isn’t hidden at all “Be yourself no matter what anyone else says about you”. This book gives a great opportunities for children to say that even Howard B. Wigglebottom can have problems in daily life but can be fixed if he just “listens to his heart”. In the book he loves to dance but then gets made fun of, tries to sings, and become the best at basketball. Everything he tries his peers disapprove. He is down then talks to his grandfather. He gives him a lesson on to do what he feels is right and good. Howard B. Wigglebottom goes to the sock hop and everything is astoniated at his Wiggleottom move.  Many kids do have anxiety about their peers so I think that this is a great book!

     At the end of the book there is a “Suggestions for Lessons and Reflection” page. Explains different meanings of the heart and what feelings are. How to talk to older people. Self-esteem, Inclusion, and Acceptance; these issues can affect like child through adulthood if they aren’t addressed at a young age. Trying different Things for the Fun of It (open mindedness). Connecting to your Roots and Family Legacy. There are Q & A at the end as well to keep the kids paying attention to the story.

     From the beginging to the end and the extra curicular activites that the publisher has provided, Howard B. Wigglebottom is both entertaining and a life lesson all together!