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The Farmer and the Clown by Marla Frazee Book Review

The Farmer and the Clown by Marla Frazee
Publisher: Beach Lane Books
Release Date: September 23, 2014

In this wordless picture book we follow the story of a little clown and a farmer and their unexpected friendship. Separated from his family after accidentally bouncing off their circus train, he lands in a farmer's empty field. The farmer is reluctant to take in the little clown, but as they spend more time together they discover that they really like one another. It is bittersweet when the train comes back through with the clown's family to reclaim their child, but one can't help but feel that this is not the end of the story for the little clown and the farmer.

I absolutely love wordless picture books especially when they are done by Caldecott medalists. Reminiscent of the 1950's, complete with circus trains, baby clown, and muted colors, this story was absolutely adorable. Frazee chose just the right kind of clown as to not be scary. Although, as someone who used to do clowning, I don't really find clowns terrifying and don't fully understand people who do. (stop watching horror movies people!) The farmer is just grumpy enough to remind you of a curmudgeonly old grandpa, but he quickly warms as the story progresses. You will find yourself smiling by the end of the book and entranced by the illustrations. I wouldn't be surprised is this ended up with another award or two.


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