The Dot Written and Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds

The Dot
Written and Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
Genre: Art; Fiction
Grade level: K and up
Awards:
The Christopher Award

Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award Winner
Irma S. and James H. Black Honor--Bank Street College of Education
Publishers Weekly - STARRED Review
Booklist - STARRED Review
Chicago Public Library Best Books for Children and Teens
School Library Journal - STARRED Review
Nick Jr. Family Magazine - "Best of 2003" Awards - "Most Inspiring Book"
Borders Original Voices Selection"Best Book of the Year" - Valerie Lewis "Children's Book Review"/Hicklebee's
Book Sense 76 selection
Babyzone Amazing Book Awards 2003
Book Links Editor's Best of 2003
Chapman Awards for Best Classroom Read-Alouds

Vashti is in Art class and does not think she can draw. Her teacher encourages her to just to make a mark. Out of frustration Vashti throws her pencil on the paper and makes a dot. The teacher uses the dot to encourage Vashti to draw and paint more dots. Vashti's dots make her an artist and it all started with just a little dot. That little dot showed Vashti she can do anything if she just tries a little bit. Vashti then encourages others to just try and they can do it too. 

This story shows children if they just try something new, they may surprise themselves. Vashti did not know she could paint or draw until she tried. Teachers could discuss with the students about things they have tried and succeeded at doing. It may also encourage others to try something new too.