Ish - Written and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
This whimsically illustrated book is about Ramon, a budding young artist whose self-confidence plummets after his older brother laughs at one of his drawings. After months trying to make his drawings look just “right,” he gives up and announces he’s done. His younger sister runs off with one of his discarded pictures and he soon discovers a gallery of his pictures on her bedroom wall. She points out a particular favorite of a vase and claims it looks “vase-ish.” This re-energizes Ramon and enables him to begin drawing again. This simple story appeals to children of many ages and is particularly helpful curtailing the insecurities of beginning artists who claim, “I can’t draw.”
Possible Discussion Pathways
- The importance of creativity above perfection
- Thinking about what defines art and how it is different for different people
- Acceptance and encouragement of peers; how do we create a supportive community?
“Ish” is amongst my most favorite of all books to use both in the classroom and general life! Oh the freedom it brings. I find even some of our you best students already develop fears and judgements about themselves; what they can and cannot do. “Ish” is a prescription to this limiting self belief.
I use this book in the earliest days of school as a crucial part of my SEL literature. We tend to refer back to its principals ALL year long. “Ish” gives us—students AND teacher!, the courage to take risks, do the uncomfortable, and celebrate our efforts both in the classroom and out.
(Youngest students , NOT best students!)