Friday, October 22, 2010

Spork by Kyo Maclear, illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault

Spork doesn't fit anywhere. Most cutlery don't mix - and they're not interested in finding a place for Spork, even though his parents think he's special. Spork tries to fit in. He tries to be more round for the spoons, more pointy for the forks...but it doesn't work and he finds himself back in the lonely world of unmatching utensils. Until, suddenly, a new creature arrives and Spork discovers he can be useful after all and find a place at the table.

I like this book for several reasons. It deals with sensitive issues in a thoughtful way, but isn't heavy-handed. It's funny and light and the illustrations are intriguing and amusing. I especially liked that the Spork didn't just decide he was special and having his parents think he was perfect was not enough - he found his place when he became useful and contributed. While this would be a good book to read with a biracial child who's dealing with bullying or emotional issues, it's also a fun book to read to kids anytime. Sporks are just inherently funny, you know?
Verdict: Recommended for fun and educational purposes! I've read this with preschoolers - the text is a little lengthy for younger ones, but easily abridged and they got a big kick out of it. Older kids appreciate the subtle humor more though.


ISBN: 9781553377368; Published September 2010 by Kids Can Press; Review copy provided by publisher through Raab Associates.

2 comments:

Brimful Curiosities said...

A new creature, huh? I don't think we have any sporks in our silverware drawer. Poor little spork. Wonder when the first spork was made?

Jennifer said...

According to Wikipedia, spork-like utensils have been around since the 1800s and the word "spork" was first used around the turn of the century in 1900. Who knew they were so classic?