Module 1
“Classic” Picture Books
SYLVESTER AND THE MAGIC PEBBLE

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Steig, William. 1969. SYLVESTER AND THE MAGIC PEBBLE. New York, NY: Simon and Schuster. ISBN 0671662694

2.  PLOT SUMMARY
Sylvester and the Magic Pebble is about a young donkey that collects pebbles as a hobby.  His problem began when he found a red pebble.  While sitting in the rain holding the pebble he wished the rain would stop and it did.  Then he wished the sun would come out and it did.  HE tested the pebble asking for the rain to start and stop again.  When this happened Sylvester decided the pebble was magic.  Excited, he started for home, but met a lion.  Nervous and frightened he wished he would turn into a rock.  As a rock Sylvester could not hold the magic pebble to wish himself a donkey again. So, he slept through the fall, winter, and spring.  Mother and father searched everywhere and after so long they decided they would never see Sylvester again.  On a summer day they went on a picnic on Strawberry Hill.  They placed their lunch on a rock and father picked up the pebble and placed it on the rock.  Then Sylvester wished to be himself again.  Mother and father were so happy they had their son back.  They went home and locked the rock in a safe.  

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This book is easy to follow, but had a big lesson behind it.  I like how the author uses animals because that is one way to really get kids attention.  Every time I ask my class about fiction story elements their favorite thing to tell me is that animals can talk.  This is another story that shows us the importance of family.
 
4. REVIEW EXCERPT (S)
Good Reads- “Beautiful watercolor illustrations. Meaningful story about what matters most in life, family. A must read for all!”
Caldecott award

5. CONNECTIONS
This story really shows you that you cant take things for granted.  It would be good to read to a child who is using something too much or not spending enough time with family and friends.