Common Sense Note
The restrained yet humorous writing style enhances the over-the-top adventures. Kids will enjoy (the somewhat dated) illustrations of Stanley in his silly situations.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Mary Dixon Weidler
The opportunistic Stanley uses his flatness in his escalating quest for attention: He moves from saving his mom's ring from the sewer to being the only kid able to fly like a kite to catching art thieves in the act of stealing the most expensive painting in the world!.
Stanley relishes his new-found fame, but he learns that it doesn't last for long, because "people had other things to think about." The lesson about the perils of going to extremes for attention is subtly conveyed, as Stanley is teased and rejected by his peers and Mom delivers a heavy-handed lecture about accepting other's differences, including racial and religious ones.
Younger siblings can relate to Arthur's jealousy: "It's not fair that my older brother can do so many things that I can't do!" But Arthur gets his moment to shine--it's his idea to blow Stanley back to his original shape with a bicycle pump. Grateful Stanley makes sure that his little brother gets the credit.
Brown's understanding of childhood emotions is as highly tuned as his humorous, understated writing style: "Mr. Dart stood back a few feet and stared at him for a moment. 'Oh well,' he said, 'it may not be art, but I know what I like.'" Bjorkman's updated illustrations are more colorful, but some may find that they lack the wit and charm of Tomi Ungerer's originals.
Plot Summary:
Flat as a pancake, smashed by a bulletin board, Stanley uses his new shape to gain attention, but he soon learns the downside of being different. Jeff Brown's sophisticated humor keeps adults entertained, while kids identify with Stanley's feelings and enjoy his adventures. The illustration style, though dated, is expressive and funny.
Related Books:
Other Stanley adventures are Invisible Stanley and Stanley and the Magic Lamp. Another fun book about changing shapes is William Joyce's George Shrinks.
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ViolenceStanley is flattened by a bulletin board but returns to his original shape. |
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Social BehaviorChildren and adults name-call and tease Stanley. |
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