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4.19 AVERAGE
4.19 AVERAGE
Huh, I don't think this would go over well as a read aloud with students since it makes a ton of references to the Christian church and has a line about the main character dropping dead. As always, I like dePaola's illustration style - this just isn't one of my favorite books of his.
The story is based on a French legend of a young juggler who uses his talent to make others happy. There are themes of friendship, faith and kindness.
It kind of takes awhile to get to the point of the story, a bit long and wordy, not something I would read aloud. No humor, just a bit sad. I admire the art of the book but would not recommend it to a child.
Poignant and beautiful. I think, for Tomie de Paola, writing is a spiritual act. Reading his books feels practically like a mystic experience to me.
A wonderful tale about the legend of a French juggler who built himself up from nothing, spreading happiness and joy wherever he went. The book looks at poverty, resilience and faith.
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
medium-paced
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This is my favorite from Tomie DePaola. I bet he's now making Christ smile in heaven.
Born in Connecticut to an Irish-Italian family, Tomie dePaola's work are often autobiographical or based upon stories that he has inherited and made his own. The Clown of God is based upon a French legend which tells the story of a juggler whose gift, in his old age, is spurned by people but more than welcome by Christ himself. Once told by Anatole France and now crafted with dePaola's own words and images, it is a masterpiece in both word and picture.