Part book-discussion guide, part memories of the authors' own book-discussion experience, Deconstructing Penguins reads with the ease of the novel and the content of a scholarly work. Leaders will be able to apply the principles to any book; they look at the underlying structures and how to get children (and their parents!) to look beyond the surface. Featuring real conversations on the books they discussed, including The Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, Frindle, Charlotte's Web, and of course, Mr. Popper's Penguins, key elements of theme, setting, character, point of view, climax, and conflict are explored in easy to understand terms. Enjoyable and relatable, this guide will help to-be book discussion leaders prepare for all aspects of leading a group. 206 pages, softcover.