Rainbow Reading

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The Pack Written by Amanda Cley & Cecilia Ferri

A young boy dressed in wolf clothing is part of a pack and conforms to their way of being. While he has the security of acceptance, protection, and connection, the boy compromises parts of himself. He no longer recognizes who he has become and is confronting a decision of conforming and possibly challenging the pack to accept and embrace his individuality. With intentional choice, he removes the wolf clothing, even though it signifies losing everything he had; but on the flip side of his decision, he gains being his unique self, detached and distinguished from the rest of the pack. The softly sketched gray illustrations contribute to the thoughtful tone of the book, only to become brighter towards the end of the book when the boy embraces his authentic self. This book can serve as an excellent mentor text in teaching students symbolism, tone, mood, and theme, among other literary elements. Cley and Ferri brilliantly speak to the audience in a way that invokes thought and wonder about one’s position in this world and whether we are part of a pack of followers or dare to stand uniquely individual. With simple and poignant symbolism, the author effortlessly and intentionally writes to invite the reader to relate immediately to the main character and ponder our allegiance to the pack or solidarity to remain true to ourselves. This story serves as an excellent read-aloud and resource for students in elementary, middle school, and even high school grades due to its profound thematic metaphor. A powerful story that speaks directly to the audience, bringing awareness to the universal theme of conformation or acceptance of thyself.