Mr Gumpy's Outing By Perry Nodelman Analysis

Kaleb Goin
3/26/2023
ENGL240: Children’s Literature
Jo Johnson
Response to Nodelman’s Essay
In "Decoding the Images: Illustrations and Picture Books," Perry Nodelman delves into the different ways that illustrations in picture books are different in terms of meaning and how they are inherently different from illustrations in other forms of literature. Using John Burningham's "Mr. Gumpy's Outing" as an example, Nodelman discusses how illustrations play a crucial role in constructing the narrative, and how they can convey emotions and ideas in ways that words cannot. The essay is both enlightening and surprising, as Nodelman challenges traditional assumptions about picture books and their illustrative elements.
One of the most surprising ideas that Nodelman brings up is the

Nodelman assumes that picture books are a valuable form of literature, and that they require careful analysis in order to fully appreciate their meaning. While I share these assumptions, I can imagine that others may view picture books as primarily for young children, with little literary value or artistic merit. As someone who values picture books as a form of literature, I would like to explain to others the ways in which picture books can convey complex ideas, emotions, and themes through the interplay of text and image.
One assumption that Nodelman makes is that picture books are primarily intended for children, and that they serve as a tool for teaching literacy skills. While this may be true in many cases, it is not necessarily the only function of picture books. As Nodelman himself notes, "Mr. Gumpy's Outing" is not simply a story about a boat ride, but rather a commentary on human nature and social interaction (Nodelman 99). This idea challenges the assumption that picture books are simple or childish, and suggests that they can have complex themes and ideas that are relevant to readers of all