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Book Review of Adrian Simcox Does NOT Have a Horse by Marcy Campbell

There are lots of picture books out there, and I love a lot of them! Some are funny, some are soothing, some are cutesy, and some teach lessons. This book falls in the last category. I love the lesson it teaches; it’s a big one! I hope you enjoy my book review of Adrian Simcox Does NOT Have a Horse by Marcy Campbell.

Blurb:

“Adrian Simcox tells anyone who will listen that he has a horse–the best and most beautiful horse anywhere.

But Chloe does NOT believe him. Adrian Simcox lives in a tiny house. Where would he keep a horse? He has holes in his shoes. How would he pay for a horse?

The more Adrian talks about his horse, the angrier Chloe gets. But when she calls him out at school and even complains about him to her mom, Chloe doesn’t get the vindication she craves. She gets something far more important.

Written with tenderness and poignancy and gorgeously illustrated, this book will show readers that kindness is always rewarding, understanding is sweeter than judgment, and friendship is the best gift one can give.”

My Book Review:

I love the illustrations in this book! They are beautiful! This book was illustrated by Corinna Luyken, and I love her style. It’s part whimsical, part old fashioned, and part childish (in a good way). The people have great expression, it’s full of bright colors, and the illustrations fit perfectly with the story line. I am very impressed with her work.

The story line is reminiscent of The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes. It shows how mean and judgmental children can be, but also how forgiving and loving they can be. Sometimes we need to help children get out of their small world and show them that there are all kinds of people out there. We need to show them that everyone has a story, a history, and a desire to be loved. Children need to know that each and every person is unique, important, and has divine worth and potential. And sometimes, parents need to learn those lessons too.

It doesn’t matter how much money you have or how big your house is. It doesn’t matter where you grew up or where you live now. It doesn’t matter what kind of car you drive or if you wear the latest fashions. What really matters is how you treat people and how you live your life. Do you have integrity? How do you treat your family members, your neighbors, your co-workers, or those who may have less than you? Is someone worth less because their net worth is less than yours? Do you work hard and try to make the world a better place or do you put others down to make yourself greater?

These lessons are deep for a children’s book, but they are poignant and important. Lots of amazing bedtime chats will stem from reading this book. I love books that entertain, are beautiful, and teach an important lesson. This book does all of the above. I highly recommend this book! It would be perfect for either a home or classroom setting. Ooooo…this would be a great way to start the school year!