Common Sense Note
The art is inviting, and the style and economy of the writing, plus the subject matter, holds children's interest.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Peter Lewis
The expressive verse and narrative line drawings make a good match. A little girl bends over and looks through her legs: "Upside-down trees swingin' free, / Buses float and buildings dangle; / Now and then it's nice to see / The world--from a different angle." Another little girl looks right and left before crossing the street, while her tentative sense of safety is about to be erased by a falling safe.
Sometimes it's Silverstein's indecorum that lights up the page: "We gave you a chance / To water the plants. / We didn't mean that way-- / Now zip up your pants." The verse is quick and economical, the spirit unconventional, and the voice unique and distinctly American.
Silverstein has a number of outstanding poetry collections, including A Light in the Attic and Where the Sidewalk Ends. For another collection of humorous poetry, try Judith Viorst's If I Were in Charge of the World and Other Worries.
Plot Summary:
Shel Silverstein is on the loose with wise, witty, unconventional verse and electrifying line drawings. From thoughtful observations to bathroom humor, Silverstein has childhood covered like a rug. His insight and humor make this a favorite for adults as well as children.
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Sexual ContentA backside is exposed during a rain dance. |
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Social BehaviorSilverstein makes infrequent forays into bathroom humor, nose picking, and regurgitation. |
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