Shadow

Cendrars, B., & Brown, M.
(1982). Shadow. New York:
Charles Scribner's Sons.

Shadow
Translated and illustrated by Marcia Brown
Translated from the French poem La Féticheuse by Blaise Cendrars
Published by Charles Scribner's Sons
New York
1982
40 pages

Shadow lives in the forest. It prowls around fires and mingles with dancers; it does not sleep, it is always watching; Shadow is always Shadow, and it follows men everywhere. 

In this unique book, Shadow is portrayed as a person. The story tells about the African experience with Shadow and the life Shadow lives - what he is, what he isn't, what he does and doesn't do. Lyrical and somewhat eerie, Shadow brings to life the stories of present beliefs and past spirits evoked for the original author, Blaise Cendrars, by the village storytellers and shamans of Africa. 

Marcia Brown's illustrations are unique, vivid, and beautifully evocative of African atmosphere and the drama of a life enchanted by Shadow. Her illustrations are done in collage, making them unique and giving them a somewhat eerie feel. Though this book is recommended for children ages five to eight, I would carefully consider the child to whom you plan to share this book with. The lyrical text and evocative illustrations might be considered spooky for some, but with the right child, this book is a great way to introduce a different culture. 

Purchase the book here. 

Lesson idea: Read aloud Shadow by Blaise Cendrars (translated and illustrated by Marcia Brown). Have students connect the features and behavior of shadows with the actions of the character "Shadow." Discuss whether the text of the book is poetry. Why or why not? [Note: Preview this book before reading it in class, as the illustrations and imagery may be frightening for some students.]

(from readwritethink.org)

"Casting Shadows Across Literacy and Science", a unit lesson plan on shadows. 

Caldecott Medal