The Panda Problem

The Panda Problem by Deborah Underwood 

Published: 2019

The Panda Problem, written by Deborah Underwood is a fictional dialogue story between a panda bear and a narrator. The narrator is explaining the key story elements within a fictional book, and the panda discovers if he is supposed to be the main character, or if he is actually the problem within the story. The panda goes through a variety of obstacles where he creates his own problems and events, to determine his role within the story. 

Example of the dialogue within the story. 

Response: The Panda Problem is an incredible book to utilize when introducing the idea of story elements within the classroom. It keeps K-3 students actively engaged, and allows them to interact with the elements within the story. The story is written intentionally to provoke thought to the audience, and discover how story elements shape a book. This book teaches character traits and development, problem and solution, key events, setting while using humor to engage and aid students in their comprehension of the story. The Panda Problem can also prompt a discussion about what elements students expect a story to have, and how that shapes their opinions and feelings about the book. This book could also be used within writing instruction as a mentor text for developing dialogue when writing. 

Analysis: In relation to the elements of a well-written book, this book has strong dialogue that adheres to a young audience. The panda interacts with a narrator, as well as characters within the story that he creates. These dialogues add a sense of depth and humor to the story, as well as an opportunity to discuss the different approaches to the craft of dialogue an author can take. Underwood also does an incredible job personifying the narrator, or book, in a way that furthers the development of the story. The author also develops unexpected insights by challenges the expected plotline of a story. The panda begins the story expecting to be the protagonist, only to find out that his destiny is to be the problem. The book takes another turn when the panda refuses to be the problem, and aims to create other problems to take his place.