Thumbelina by Brian Pinkney

  1. Thumbelina by Brian Pinkney

A: Bibliography

Pinkney, Brian. 2003. THUMBELINA. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishing.

ISBN 0688174779.


B: Plot Summary

This is the classic retelling of a little girl, no bigger than a thumb, that gets kidnapped from her

bed and goes on a journey in the quest to return home. Along the way, Thumbelina meets

many animal friends (and enemies) including a welcoming field mouse, a rich mole rat, and a

sick swallow. Ultimately, Thumbelina learns the power of resilience and perseverance in this

story that has captured many generation’s hearts. 


C: Critical Analysis (Including cultural markers)

This story does not have many cultural markers to indicate what culture is to be represented in

this story. Aside from the illustrations of a “cinnamon-skinned figure” as Kirkus puts it, there is no indication of a culture presented. 


Moreover, this story is just a retelling of the already told tale of Thumbelina. There is not much

“new information” presented in this book. Although entertaining and enjoyable, this book does

not offer a new perspective to readers via culture inclusivity. 


Personally, I think this book is just fine. There is nothing too remarkable about the writing.

The illustrations are acceptable, as well. They are colorful and help to portray the story of

Thumbelina, but there is nothing in this story that would make me want to recommend it.

Unfortunately not all books can be standouts, and this one exemplifies just that. 


D: Review Excerpts

Publishers Weekly: “Two-time Caldecott Honor artist Pinkney (The Faithful Friend; Duke Ellington) presents a

visually snappy adaptation of this Hans Christian Andersen tale.” 


Kirkus: “Pinkney places his tall (about three inches—or triple her size in the original),

graceful, cinnamon-skinned figure within close-up natural landscapes, vibrantly depicted

in warm browns and golds with short, thick, curving brushstrokes.”


E: Connections

Look for these other books for young people by Brian Pinkney:


Pinkney, Brian. MAX FOUND TWO STICKS. ISBN 0613870549


Pinkney, Brian. THE ADVENTURES OF SPARROWBOY. ISBN 0689835345


Pinkney, Brian. HUSH, LITTLE BABY. ISBN 0060559934

 


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