Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathmann (Picture Book)

Officer Buckle and Gloria was the 1996 Caldecott Medal winner for best illustrated children's book.

Officer Buckle likes to visit schools and share his collection of safety tips. The children don't pay much attention to Officer Buckle's speeches. One day Officer Buckle gets a canine partner, Gloria, and all of a sudden the kids are paying lots of attention during the Officer's speeches. Officer Buckle doesn't realize that the children are actually paying attention to Gloria's silly stage antics. Officer Buckle's feelings are hurt and he stops giving his talks, Gloria misses Officer Buckle and she refuses to perform for the children. A safety disaster strikes a school, and Officer Buckle and Gloria realize that they need each other.

This is a funny story about friendship. The illustrations are funny, but they need to be looked at closely to appreciate all of Gloria's silly tricks, so it is not the best book if you are doing a read-aloud for a large group.

Ages: 3-8
Keywords: Friendship, Police, Dogs, Safety

Lesson Plan Idea: Health Class-Make a poster of safety tips.

Discussion Questions:
1. Why did Officer Buckle stop giving his safety speeches?
2. Why did Gloria stop performing tricks for the children?
3. How do you think Gloria learned her tricks?
4. Why is it important to always stick with your buddy?