Sylvester and the Magic Pebble
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Steig, William. 1969. Sylvester and the Magic Pebble. Ill. by William Steig. New York, NY: Aladdin Paperbacks. ISBN 0671662694
PLOT SUMMARY
In Sylvester and the Magic Pebble, a young donkey named Sylvester discovers a pebble that will grant him any wish he desires. On his walk home, as he is contemplating all the wonderful things he can wish for, he encounters a lion. In a moment of panic, he wishes he were a rock -- and his wish is granted. Without holding the pebble, Sylvester is unable to wish himself back into his original donkey self. His parents are devastated as months pass without anyone figuring out what happened to their dear son. Finally, on one sunny afternoon, Sylvester’s parents head out for a picnic and end up using him as a table. They discover the pebble and, unbeknownst to Sylvester, place it on their stone table. Sylvester then wishes he was himself again at just the right moment, and he reappears.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Sylvester and the Magic Pebble is a visually and verbally appealing tale about a donkey who makes an unwise decision in haste. The watercolor illustrations are full of details that could tell the story standing alone. They complement the story and do an amazing job showing the animals expressions up close. There is strong vocabulary usage throughout the book that is excellent for teaching context clues and voice. The story wraps up with a valuable lesson for kids: the true treasure lies in appreciating what you already have.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
-Recipient of the Caldecott Medal in 1970
This tale of a donkey who wishes on a magic pebble has charmed a generation of readers and will no doubt go on to attract a new one. - Publisher’s Weekly
CONNECTIONS
As a writing activity, students could tell about what they would wish for should they discover their own magic pebble.
They can also write about the best things in their life that they treasure more than wishes, just as Sylvester discovered the treasure in being himself.
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