Module 6 - The Relatives Came



Rylant, C. (1985). The relatives came. New York: Bradbury Press.

Summary

The Relatives Came is a story told in first person by a child who anticipates her relatives coming to visit from Virginia.  The relatives arrive and there is much hugging.  The book then describes the many things they do together, such as eating, fixing things, taking pictures, and making music.  One of the most humorous parts of the book is the description of where everyone sleeps, when there is obviously not enough room for the relatives.  The illustrations, by Stephen Gammell, add a great deal of humor and detail to the story.  This book won a Caldecott Honor Award in 1986 for the illustrations.  The story ends with the relatives leaving for home, but both families know they will see each other the next summer.

My Impressions

This book is a fun read, with pictures that add a great deal to the book.  It catches the essence of having family visit, both the togetherness and the occasional discomfort.  I think any child who has had relatives visit for a long period will relate to this story.   Many families live far apart, and children often experience company visiting.  The story manages to capture the joy of family togetherness, the sadness of separating again, and the anticipation of the next visit.

Review

When Gammell finished his art he called to say delightedly he'd bring it to New York; he wanted to watch me react-for this giddy, colored-penciled book marked a departure for him. For Rylant, a poet foremost, the large cast was the departure (note "all that new breathing in the house"--my favorite line) but the celebration of family was familiar. The appeal of the combination lies in its blend of over-the-top visual humor, sense of place, and down-to-earth human connection. Can you find the narrator? She's shown once only.

Jackson, R. (2005). Dick's Picks. School Library Journal, 51(9), 36-38.

Library Usage

This book is an excellent example of a narrative that is a personal experience.  Often, narratives are problem/solution based, and students need more examples of a personal experience narrative.  After reading aloud and discussing the various story elements used, students can brainstorm a personal experience they might write about.  Then each student can write a personal experience narrative on the topic of their choice.