I would venture to say the majority of new readers tend to be drawn to “beautiful” storybooks filled with pages of kaleidoscopic illustrations and picturesque language. Perhaps it is the flashy pictures that cause little minds blossoming with creativity to delve into reading and discover the precious characters that will soon become models by which they view the world. Whatever the case may be, I urge you to recount the many storybooks you read as a child. While these tales may not have been bursting with the latest graphics and hottest shades of turquoise, coral, and hot pink, they were undoubtedly stories that shaped your life. This could not be more true for Shel Silverstein’s The Missing Piece Meets the Big O.
Originally published in 1981, this book has circulated countless bookshelves across the world. Silverstein’s books have been translated in 20 different languages and sold over 20 million copies. Each of his works have something special to offer its audiences, for there are story lines for children and adults alike. Silverstein’s life was one of both great accomplishments and pain. While he was nominated for numerous awards and praised for his brilliant works beyond the bookstore, he also endured the loss of both his wife and daughter in a seven year span. The wisdom he must have gained through such significant periods of suffering is vividly seen through the pages of his books.
The Missing Piece Meets the Big O is a rather simplistic storybook with many underlying messages that pull at the heartstrings of every society member. I will admit when reading this in my younger years, I had little understanding of the heartfelt words and effortless drawings. But after rereading it recently, this book more than adequately depicts so many sentiments one feels in every stage of life: “The missing piece sat alone... waiting for someone to come along and take it somewhere...” I cannot begin to imagine how many people have felt as though they are that missing piece, waiting for something in life to come along and make everything better — something that would make them complete.
Article comments
1 - Shirley Richards
This is an excellent book review. I am a retired H.S. English teacher, and this makes me want to be teaching again! What wonderful talent you have Miss Kutch. I remember your dad. Tell him that I congratulate him on raising a daughter who handles the language so well. Keep on writing!! Shirley Richards