'Sylvester and the Magic Pebble' by William Steig is a heartwarming story about a donkey named Sylvester who finds a magic pebble that grants wishes. However, when Sylvester's wish to become a rock to escape danger leaves him unable to move or speak, he faces a deep depression. As his parents grieve his disappearance, a miraculous chain of events leads to Sylvester's reunion with his family, emphasizing the themes of love, family bonds, and the power of wishes coming true. Steig's writing style is described as vivid, economical, and filled with sharp irony, making the story engaging for readers of all ages.

Characters:

The characters exhibit strong emotional traits, with Sylvester as a curious and adventurous donkey and his parents portraying love and concern, alongside a menacing lion representing danger.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is characterized by vivid, economical language and sharp irony, appealing to both children and adults with a touch of humor.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around Sylvester, a donkey who finds a magic pebble that grants wishes. After mistakenly becoming a rock to avoid danger, he struggles to return to his original form and reunite with his family.

Setting:

The setting is a whimsical countryside, which enhances the imaginative quality of the story while remaining child-friendly.

Pacing:

The story maintains a steady pace, gradually building suspense before quickly resolving in a satisfying reunion.

Notes:

Sylvester is a donkey who finds a magic pebble that grants wishes.

He wishes to become a rock to escape a lion but loses the ability to move and speak.

Sylvester's parents think they lost him forever and try to enjoy a picnic to feel better.

A chance wish by his mother brings Sylvester back to his donkey form.

William Steig wrote this story and didn't start writing children's books until he was in his sixties.

The book has a distinctive illustration style that's recognized for its brightness.

It won the Caldecott Medal in 1970 for its illustrations and storytelling.

The book addresses deep themes of parental love and the fear of loss.

Many families treasure this book across generations for its emotional depth.

Steig was a prolific contributor to The New Yorker, producing over 2600 drawings.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of loss and the emotional distress associated with a child being missing.

From The Publisher:

2013 Audie Award Finalist for Children's Titles for Ages Up to 8

A cherished classic is brought to life with the audio stylings of renowned actor James Earl Jones.

Sylvester can't believe his luck when he finds a magic pebble that can make wishes come true. But when a lion jumps out at him on his way home, Sylvester is shocked into making a wish that has unexpected consequences. After overcoming a series of obstacles, Sylvester is eventually reunited with his loving family. Illustrated with William Steig's glowing pictures, this winner of the Caldecott Medal is beloved by children everywhere.

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Sylvester and the Magic Pebble

William Steig