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Book Summary

Reviewed by Susan Fitzgerald

Ferdinand is a bull who would rather smell the flowers than fight. Despite the urgings of an enthusiastic group of banderilleros and picadors, and a hopelessly vain matador, Ferdinand chooses serenity over fierceness. Munro Leaf's timeless story, coupled with Robert Lawson's expressive pen-and-ink drawings, have made Ferdinand a true classic.

Is It Any Good?

5

THE STORY OF FERDINAND has been around for more than half a century for a reason: It's the story of a sweetly mannered bull who prefers peace to fighting, and the scent of flowers over the smell of victory. Munro Leaf's unforgettable words and Robert Lawson's ability to reveal, with simple pen-and-ink strokes, Ferdinand's soft-heartedness make this story a classic.

One 5-year-old reader was disturbed when the bullfighters brandished darts, long spears, and a sword to stick Ferdinand and made him "mad and madder." But he quickly found a smile when Ferdinand dismissed the fight for his favorite pastime -- sniffing flowers displayed in the hairdos of the "lovely ladies." The story shows readers that they must choose their own path, despite what others may say or think.

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