Cardboard

Title: Cardboard 

Author: Doug TenNapel
# of Pages: 288

Published by: GRAPHIX
Age Range:10-14
Grade Level: 5-9

      Cam’s father is out of work and it is a financially tough time for Cam and his dad. Cam’s father is a single parent struggling to make money, however, he wants to do something special for his son Cam on his upcoming birthday. On Cam’s birthday, his father gives him a cardboard box and Cam thinks it is the worst present ever. To make the best of the situation, Cam and his Dad bend the cardboard into creatures. They make a man, and they were shocked when it magically came to life. Marcus is the neighborhood bully, and when he gets ahold of Cam’s magic cardboard he turns it into his own evil creations. Marcus’ creations threaten to destroy everyone in the city.

This book is a graphic novel, therefore it will attract a different group of reader. The pictures are easy to follow though. The cardboard coming to life is a story carried out throughout the book. The topic of this book could be relatable to many students because their parents may not be able to afford to buy them a birthday gift. This book coverts topics like bullying and friendship and family struggles. The story allows students to use their imagination and make the best of every situation. I would recommend this book to boys in my class who are not yet wanting to read large books, because sometimes graphic novels are easier to read. 

Classroom activities and lesson ideas include: 

• Talk about different types of families
• Teach a lesson about what a graphic novel is, have students work on their own graphic novel/story
• As a class, do an art project with cardboard having students make their own characters 
• Explore Doug TenNepal's website

Here is a book trailer: