Oh, Bull!

The Story of Ferdinand

by Munro Leaf

illustrated by Robert Lawson

There are some books that I am happy to read over and over again, simply because the story or characters make me smile every time. The Story of Ferdinand is one of those books, and I have to admit that I've had days where I pull it off the shelf at the library simply to lose myself in its lovely simplicity for a few moments.

Summary

Ferdinand is not your typical bull. While the other bulls in his pasture like to run and jump and butt heads, Ferdinand is content to sit quietly under his favorite tree and smell the flowers. One day, a group of matadors come to check out the bulls and choose one for the big bullfight that's coming up in Madrid. An unfortunate incident involving a bee results in Ferdinand being carted off to Madrid, where he finds himself being cheered (and feared!) by all the excited citizens at the bullfight. However, when Ferdinand makes his entrance in the ring, he happily plops down to enjoy the scent of the flowers that all the women have in their hair for the occasion. His sweet nature gets him carted right back to his pasture, where he is free to be his sweet, peaceful self.

Worth staying up past bedtime?

Ferdinand is absolutely worth staying up for! The Story of Ferdinand is one of those books that just makes me smile, and I'm happy to read it anytime. The illustrations are fantastic - simple black and white drawings, but very expressive, and detailed enough to hold your eye. Ferdinand himself is a wonderful character, and a perfect example of how appearances don't indicate everything about someone.

Recommended for any age.