Book #1- Cardboard Book

Book Title:  Little Gorilla

Author and Illustrator: Ruth Bornstein

Publisher: Clarion Books

Publication Date: 1976

ISBN Number: 0-395-28773-1

     This story begins by introducing Little Gorilla, the main character, and all of the animals who love him. One day, Little Gorilla starts to grow, and he becomes worried that not everyone will still love him because he is bigger than he used to be.The story ends with Little Gorilla coming to the realization that even though he is growing up, the love that his animal friends and family have for him is everlasting.

      I think that this book is very cute. The message that this book carries helps to alleviate a fear that many small children may have: “Will everyone still love me as I grow up?” It also helps the young readers to realize that they will be growing up and will be changing, but that is ok. The illustrations were simple. There was not a vast array of colors, but the illustrations still caught my eye. For example, the Gorillas looked fuzzy because of the way they were painted. Also, I appreciated how all of the animals had pleasant emotions and facial expressions. This makes animals that could be frightening to young children less so. 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars!