Arlene Sardine By Chris Raschka

This picture book is about a fished named Arlene who wants to become a sardine. Arlene has a short lived life because in the first few pages she is caught, dies on a ships deck and is processed. The illustrations in this picture book are unique because they take up the whole page. The illustrations also seemed to be created by using a watercolor technique. I did not like the font used in this picture book because I feel as though it could be difficult for young children to read. On the other hand, I liked how this book introduced fishing terminology and included definitions. Personally, I did not find this book controversial. This book discussed the topics of death and food processing. Although I love animals, I also love hamburgers, steak, chicken and so on. This book introduces the topic of meat processing in a subtle way. Raschka tells the viewers that it is Arlene’s dream to become a sardine. Also, after Arlene died, the author refers to her as though she is still alive. I feel as though this book is a good way to ease into the discussion of meat processing if the topic ever comes up in the classroom.