This is Not My Hat

Bibliography
Klassen, J. (2012). This is not my hat. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press. ISBN: 9780763655990

Summary
A small fish has stolen a hat from a big sleeping fish, and boasts about how easy it will be for him to get away with the theft, because the big fish will not wake up any time soon. Except it does. The plot in this mischievous story leaves you wondering.

Critical Analysis
The lead in this dark story is that of a thieving fish who portrays characteristics of a naive child thinking that he could get away with his mischief. The rising actions in this story immediately put a smile to the readers face as the watercolor illustrations prove otherwise. 

The dark underwater setting plays a role in the underlying theme that one should do no wrong. Whereas the "safe" overgrown plants lead to the conclusion that is was not so safe after all. Klassen's ability to capture the animals' expressions with such simplicity, is seen throughout. The way the pages contrast each other with their pitch black against stark white,  seem to fit the conflict of good vs. bad. The overall compilation of this book is quite masterful. 

Review Excerpts
Library Media Connection: "This would make a remarkable read-aloud for students to interpret the ending in various ways...Highly recommended"
School Library Journal: "This not-to-be-missed title will delight children again and again"

Connections
-Students can think of different endings to the original / or finalize the original (since left unclear)
-Create a newspaper report about a stolen hat
-Create a "Wanted" / "Missing Fish" poster for the culprit focusing on character analysis
-Discuss the author's purpose for his short sentences and how they play a role in the story's suspense

Awards
Caldecott Medal
Kate Greenaway Medal