Book Details
Written by
Illustrated by
Genre
More details
See more book reviews

Flat Stanley (by Jeff Brown)

common sense media says

Expressive writing and funny illustrations.

parents & educators say
See all 3 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that the restrained yet humorous writing style of this book enhances the over-the-top adventures. Kids will enjoy (the somewhat dated) illustrations of Stanley in his silly situations.

Positive messages: Children and adults name-call and tease Stanley.
Violence & scariness: Stanley is flattened by a bulletin board but returns to his original shape.
Language: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Flat Stanley

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about how Stanley handles his newfound fame. How does he react at first? What does he learn from it?

What's the story?

What's the story?
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.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
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.

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 will relate to Arthur's jealousy, too.

Book themes & details

Book Details
Author: Jeff Brown
Illustrator: Steve Bjorkman
Publisher: HarperTrophy
Publication date: December 31, 1969
Number of pages: 58
Paperback price: $4.99
This review was written by Mary Dixon Weidler
 
 

Review It

 

Review Flat Stanley

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

Most useful reviews by all members

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you read Flat Stanley?

Won't miss it
On the fence
No way

Already read it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Browse more books
About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines