August Explains

by Philip Ressner, Crosby Newell Bonsall (Illustrator)

Children who sometimes think they would like to be dogs or camels, will be fascinated to see themselves from the point of view of a small bear who wants to be human. From the pictures of many devilish looking boys taking baths to the definition of shoes--they are "very much like hollow feet",-- the author and artist exhibit a new, humorous approach to the worlds of bears and humans. The three-color illustrations are of the highest artistic quality; Mr. Bonsall seems to understand small people, and sees a unique kind of comedy in their everyday actions. A fine combination of a clever, exuberant text, and fine pictures (Mr. Bonsall is a master at capturing expressions and stances)-- a seeing and listening experience which young children should not be denied.

Genres: Picture Books

28 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1963

Reviews

[Debby]

Ted, a small bear, decides he wants to be a boy so he goes to August, and old bear, to have him make him a boy. August explains what boys have to do and Ted decides to stay a bear. Cute story with really cute limited color sketches.