PPBF: The Shrinking of Treehorn

Author: Florence Parry Heide
Illustrator: Edward Gorey
Publisher: Holiday House, 1971
Age: 5+
Themes: families, magic, humorous stories
Opening: (see image below)

Summary: (from my library catalog) A boy discovers he is shrinking but does not know the cause or cure.

Why I like this book: The subtle wit and insight into the lives of only children and parents in the text AND illustration is sublime. I had recently watched a 12×12 webinar with Sergio Ruzzier where he talked about a couple of books he illustrated written by Florence Parry Heide, so as per my usual modus operandi I put a stack of her books on hold through my library. I remember reading this before, but what a pity that I did not have my own copy! I am already a Gordy fan, but 3 FPH books later, I am a fan of hers too (and happy to take any further recommendations!).

Resources/Activities: for older children, discuss all the patterns used to create the illustrations in the book and how they influence the story; for younger kids: talk about all the ways we notice growth in our lives.

For more Perfect Picture Book picks with teacher/parent resources, check out the list on Susanna Hill’s blog HERE.