Sylvester and the Magic Pebble By: William Steig

Steig, William. Sylvester and the Magic Pebble. New York: The Trumpet Club, 1969.

This clever book is an animal fantasy story about a donkey named Sylvester who comes across a magic pebble that grants any wishes he desires. One day he comes across a lion so he wishes to be turned into a rock to protect himself. Unfortunately he does not think this through because he is no longer holding the pebble and he is unable to change himself back. Time passes; seasons are shown through illustrations. His parents almost give up hope until they come across the rock that is their son. Sylvester’s mom finds the pebble and holds it in her hand and wishes her son were here. Magically Sylvester turns back into himself and everyone is very grateful.

The text and illustrations have a enhanced relationship; the illustrations add some qualities to the book that are not displayed by the text. The pictures are very bright and colorful with a lot of texture and detail, which really helps move the story along.

Although the pictures take up most of the space on the pages the text of the story has the most impact on the reader. It brings a very good message to the reader’s attention: although there is a lot of things we might wish for, we should not take for granted what we have because in the end those things are most important. In the end Sylvester was happy to be with his family that he missed for so long. Sometimes materialistic things are not needed when you have the love of the people around you. This story line is definitely age appropriate for any and all readers. It is a great story that ends with a great message.