Title: Goliath, The Boy Who Was Different
Author and Illustrator: Ximo Abadia
Publisher: Little Gestalten, 2019
Ages: 4-6
Themes: size, difference, individuality, boyhood, growing up
Opening:
I was big.
Synopsis:
A story about a boy who was a little too big for his boots … Goliath always knew he was special. He was big. He was brave. He was the strongest. He was different! Convinced that his home had nothing more to offer, Goliath headed out into the world to show everyone what he was really made of. But he didn’t look so brave when confronted with the sea and he didn’t look so big when stood next to the Sun. So what does being big and brave mean? And why was he determined to be that way … ?
Why I like this book:
Author/illustrator Ximo Abadía explores concepts of boyhood, physical difference, growing up, individuality, and the complexities we all face in search of our place. Abadía’s vibrant modernistic style and colors stood out as much as the edgy, philosophical message. The tall format adds a legitimate dimension (pun intended) to the tale. Goliath is a story that is poignant and empowering.
This is a great German press that publishes unusual books, which I almost always love.
Look at this amazing art!
Activities/resources:
The art is so extraordinary, I would ask my students to paint their own Goliaths.
Each week a group of bloggers reviews picture books we feel would make great educational reads. To help teachers, caregivers and parents, we have included resources and/or activities with each of our reviews. A complete list of the thousands of books we have reviewed can be found sorted alphabetically and by topics, here on Susanna Leonard Hill’s website.
In my 20's, with only my guitar and a rucksack, I wandered the continents, immersing myself in the lives of some wonderful people, projects and stories, which changed the way I view my responsibility to others and this earth. Right now I'm a European transplant in the US who writes books for children and young adults. Stories can help us not only navigate our world but can connect us to others, and allow us to inspire and help each other. I believe that equity and empathy should be at the core of our all actions, words, and stories.
I am also a school librarian and I get a kick out of book-matchmaking! And I use the pronouns she/her.
Love the artwork! It looks very retro.
That’s the right word!
Fantastic artwork – must seek this one out!
Yes, knew you’d love this one.
This looks amazing! There’s only one on order at the SFPL, but I’ve put a hold on it. Thanks for this great rec, Joanna.
I got this direct from the publisher.
Joanna, You always find the most amazing books. I have to find this one.
I have some contacts with some good publishers! 🙂
I love Barb’s description above of the illustrations looking retro. So spot on. I’m intrigued to read this book. I hope my library owns a copy.
I love foreign publishers — such unique titles, themes and artwork. This story looks especially amazing. What a great share with children. Much to ponder.