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A Million Fish ... more or less facts for kids

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A Million Fish ... more or less
A Million Fish ... more or less.jpg
Author Patricia McKissack
Illustrator Dena Schutzer
Country United States
Language English
Genre Children's picture book
Published 1992 (Knopf)
Media type Print (hardback)
Pages 32 (unpaginated)
ISBN 9780679906926
OCLC 191730132

A Million Fish ... more or less is an exciting children's picture book written by Patricia McKissack and published in 1992. It tells the story of a young boy named Hugh Thomas, who lives in the bayou and goes on an unforgettable fishing adventure. This book is known for its fun storytelling and imaginative plot.

What is A Million Fish ... more or less About?

The story follows Hugh Thomas, a boy who lives in the Louisiana bayou. One day, he goes fishing and catches an incredible number of fish – "a million fish... more or less!" But getting them home is the real challenge. On his way, he encounters various animals and situations that make his journey quite extraordinary. The book uses humor and exaggeration to create a memorable tale.

Exploring the Bayou Setting

The bayou is a unique wetland area, often found in the southern United States, especially in Louisiana. It's a slow-moving stream or a marshy lake. This setting adds a special flavor to Hugh Thomas's adventure, making it feel wild and full of possibilities. The book helps readers imagine what life might be like in such a place.

Understanding Tall Tales

A Million Fish ... more or less is a great example of a tall tale. A tall tale is a type of story where the main character's adventures are greatly exaggerated. Everything is bigger, wilder, and more unbelievable than in real life. These stories are often funny and meant to entertain. They usually feature a hero who performs amazing feats, like catching a million fish!

About the Author, Patricia McKissack

Patricia McKissack (1944–2017) was a celebrated American author. She wrote many books for children and young adults, often focusing on African American history and culture. Her stories are known for being engaging and educational. McKissack won several awards for her work, including the Coretta Scott King Award. She had a talent for bringing history and imagination to life for young readers.

Awards and Recognition

A Million Fish ... more or less has been recognized with several honors since its publication. These awards show how much readers and critics appreciated the book's story and illustrations.

  • 1992 CCBC Choice
  • 1994 Kaleidoscope: A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8
  • 1995 Young Hoosier Award Picture Book (K-3) - nominee
  • 1996 NCTE Books That Invite Talk, Wonder, and Play
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