It's Simple, Said Simon
Knopf, March, 2001.
Picture Book, 40 pages.
ISBN: 0375812016
Ages Baby - Preschool
Like a fable, this charming story not only entertains;
it opens the door for the parent or grandparent to impart
some wisdom to a young person. The story begins with
a young boy named Simon who is venturing out to prove
himself. First he meets a dog. The dog challenges Simon
to growl, so Simon growls,
and the dog approves of Simon's growl. Then Simon meets
a cat, and the cat challenges Simon to stretch. Simon stretches,
and the cat approves. Finally, Simon meets a tiger who slyly
challenges Simon to growl. Simon growls, but the tiger
complains that Simon has not growled loud enough. On the third
try, the tiger approves. The tiger continues with dares which
Simon readily accepts. This culminates on a dare to jump up on
and ride on the tiger's back. Then the tiger reveals his motive
when Simon says that he will have an egg for dinner and the
tiger reveals that he is planning to have a boy for dinner.
Simon is able to outwit the tiger by saying that he is thirsty.
The tiger takes Simon to the water and Simon tempts him
to go out farther and farther. This enables Simon to swim away
when the tiger admits that he cannot swim.
For obvious reasons, this little tale can be developed into a frank discussion on not trusting everyone one meets, and in the foolishness of accepting a dare. Ms. Hoberman has given us a simple tale which teaches, but does not frighten.
Meilo So has given this story sensitive, yet whimsical illustrations by the use of ink and watercolors on Indian rice paper. Blues, browns and reds characterize the more benign creatures, while the tiger is painted with bold black and orange strokes. Ms. So gives Simon's face eager and confident expressions, but the tiger slowly develops a sly and cunning smile. The effect is light, but the danger of taking dares from friendly tigers is deftly expressed in Ms. So's lovely illustrations.
--Sarah Reaves White
It's Simple, Said Simon is available for purchase on Amazon.com
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This review was published in the May, 2001 of The Internet Writing Journal.
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