Simon the Sloth by Molly Arbuthnott offers pages of stunning art depicting the story of Simon, a sloth who loves to play the bagpipes. He’s very good at playing the right notes, but he has a problem. He plays so slowly that his music sounds like yowling cats and screeching foxes. If you’ve never heard that fox noise just Google it. Their cries sound like a woman’s high-pitched scream, so the description was perfect for getting the point across that no one wanted to listen to Simon play.
Book Review: Simon the Sloth
The story follows Simon’s journey around the world as he seeks an answer to this problem, but no matter where he played, he was just too slow. I won’t say more because I don’t do spoilers. This story is a fun read, though I wished it were a little more developed. The artwork is stunning and colorful. Kids will love it because it includes all kinds of details not mentioned in the story which a parent can point out in a teaching moment. I recommend Simon the Sloth as a Pre-K read-aloud story and for early readers. It’s a gentle, sweet story that provides a practical lesson in perseverance and reaching goals on a toddler’s level. I think those who enjoyed The Bear and the Piano by David Litchfield, or The Lion Inside by Rachel Bright will love this book. I give it a strong 4 stars.
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About Author Molly Arbuthnott
Molly is a teacher, author, editor, and academic from Scotland,
UK. She's passionate about the promotion of children’s literature. With a solid
understanding of literature and the ability to read, she believes you can take
on the world. She has completed an M.A. in Art History and an M.Ed in
children's literature. She has gone on to write nine award-winning picture
books.
She uses experiences from life as inspiration for her writing. Teaming up with four fantastic illustrators has helped breathe life into the stories. Each story is loosely based on family or friends who have been important in her life whilst also trying to tell stories honestly and gently, singing praise to things we have to celebrate in our world. Teaching children to look out for others, work as a team, and not be afraid of doing the right thing is important. Such lessons might then filter through and be reflected in the way we live in the magical world around us.