Always Room for One More

 Leodhas, S. (1965). Always room for one more. New York: Henry Holt.

Awards: Caldecott, 1966; American Library Association Notable Children’s Book.

Always Room for One More is a quaint story told from the lyrics of an old Scottish folk song. I liked the base of kindness and hospitality the story taught as all were welcome in the home, no matter their age, job, or where they came from. But when the small house became too full the house collapsed, turning the tables on the ones who got hospitality to become the ones who give it by rebuilding a larger home that could hold all the friends and neighbors who passed by. The book was illustrated in a style that conveyed the Scottish highlands, but for me it was the story, the lyrics of the song with music, and the author’s note that definitely made this book one that I would use in a classroom to show there is more behind a picture book than meets the eye. I especially enjoy books that have a background rooted in history behind them, such as this book, as it gives the book more meaning.