Book Review: Sylvester and the Magic Pebble

Module 1

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Steig, William. Sylvester and the Magic Pebble. New York: Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing, 1969. ISBN 1416902066

2. PLOT SUMMARY

Steig tells the story of Duncan, a young Donkey who finds a unique pebble. Accidentally, he discovers that the pebble will grant any wish, so long as you are holding the pebble in your hand when you make the wish. Eager to share the news of his great find with his parents, Duncan is caught off guard when he sees a lion stalking him. Out of fear, Duncan wishes to become a rock, and becomes trapped in that form as he is unable to reach out and pick up the pebble. Nearly a year later, his parents unknowingly picnic right on top of him, and place the pebble on him as well. Sylvester is able to make the wish to become a donkey again and he is reunited with his parents.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Many would love to have their wishes become reality, but Steig uses Duncan’s story to show the reader how having your every wish granted could lead to your demise. Having your every wish granted will not necessarily make you happy. When Duncan returns to his donkey form, he realizes that he has a wonderful family, and no longer needs to wish for anything else. Steig helps the reader see that there is plenty of happiness around you; you just have to open your eyes and see it.

Steig’s colorful illustrations depict animals with human characteristics: wearing clothes, living in houses, standing on two legs, and participating in human activities such as a picnic. By giving the characters these human characteristics, the reader is able to picture them as more than animals and is able to relate to Duncan’s story on a more personal level.

4. AWARDS AND REVIEW EXCERPTS

*The Caldecott Medal

*Best Children’s Books: “It enables us (and our children) to experience another character's highs and lows. There is very real, very pronounced sadness in this book. It still has a happy ending though!”

*Brother’s Judd: “The real beauty of the tale lies in the timeless message that it is not "things" that will make us happy, but the comforts of family and home”.

5. CONNECTIONS

*Related Books about finding happiness in your present circumstances:

Allard, Harry. MISS NELSON IS MISSING! ISBN 978-0395401460

Sendack, Maurice. WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE. ISBN 978-0060254926

*Have students list three of their top wishes. Then, have them complete a pros and cons list to receiving the wishes automatically.

*Review other books by William Steig. Compare how his illustrations enhanced the story.

Steig, William. AMOS AND BORIS. ISBN 978-0312535667

Steig, William. THE AMAZING BONE. ISBN 978-0312564216

Steig, William. DOCTOR DE SOTO. ISBN 978-1427211187