Michael Young

- Reviewed by Michelle Robertson for Readers' Favorite

   Posted January 4 2014

 

The Dwarfs and The Giant by Michael Young is a charming and colorful children's fable which introduces readers to the concepts of friendship, kindness, and teamwork. Children, as well as adults, often "judge a book by its cover" and assume a problem... is too big for them to solve and give up instantly. Michael Young addresses both of these issues within the contents of this delightful children's book. For example, within the story's plot the dwarfs become aware that their extremely different and large visitor, the giant, has become somewhat of an inconvenience to them and their town's way of living because of his size and his lack of hygiene. The dwarfs soon discover that if they work together to solve the problem they can achieve their goal, and also that the giant's outward appearance does not reflect his inner personality. Michael Young uses the dwarfs as characters to represent an individual (a child) who thinks they are too small to conquer a big issue (the giant) they are experiencing.

 

The story teaches children, and also adults, that no matter how small an individual thinks they are, or how big the problem is, if you work together as a team with others, the problem at hand can be solved. The use of relatable and fun characters allows a young reader's attention to stay directed on the story that then becomes easily understood. The story plot, character choices, and vividly colored illustrations makes for a useful tool parents and teachers can use to teach a life lesson as they read to children.