Chrysanthemum (book) facts for kids
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Paperback cover
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| Author | Kevin Henkes |
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| Language | English |
| Series | Mouse Books |
| Genre | Picture book |
| Publisher | Greenwillow Books |
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Publication date
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September 16, 1991 |
| ISBN | 0-688-09699-9 |
| Preceded by | Julius, the Baby of the World |
| Followed by | Owen |
Chrysanthemum is a popular children's picture book written and illustrated by the American author Kevin Henkes. It was first published in 1991. This heartwarming story is about a young mouse and her unique name.
The book has received many awards and honors. It was named an ALA Notable Book and the School Library Journal Best Book of the Year. It also made the Horn Book Fanfare Honor List. In 2007, the National Education Association chose it as one of their "Teachers' Top 100 Books for Children." In 2012, School Library Journal listed it as one of the "Top 100 Picture Books" of all time.
What is Chrysanthemum About?
The story follows a young mouse named Chrysanthemum. She absolutely loves her long and beautiful name. She thinks it is perfect, just like her.
However, things change when Chrysanthemum starts school. Some of the other mice, especially Victoria and her friends Rita and Jo, tease her about her name. They make fun of how long it is and how it sounds like a flower. This makes Chrysanthemum feel sad and unsure about her name.
Luckily, a kind music teacher named Mrs. Delphinium Twinkle helps Chrysanthemum. Mrs. Twinkle is expecting a baby. She explains that many people have long and lovely names, and that such names can be special. She even says that some people might envy a unique name like Chrysanthemum's. This helps Chrysanthemum feel better about herself and her name.
At the end of the story, Mrs. Twinkle gives birth to a baby girl. She decides to name her new baby after Chrysanthemum. This shows how much Mrs. Twinkle admired Chrysanthemum's name, and it brings the story to a happy close.
Animated Story Adaptions
Chrysanthemum has also been turned into an animated story. In 1998, Weston Woods created a short film based on the book's drawings. The famous actress Meryl Streep narrated this animated version.
Later, in 2002, the animated story was produced by Newvideo and Scholastic. It was included on a "Scholastic Storybook Treasures" DVD, along with five other animated children's stories.
