I recently stumbled upon The Sweetest Fig by Chris Van Allsburg , and was immediately entranced by its surreal story. I picked it up uncertain if my children would enjoy the unusual story, and was delighted that they absolutely love it.
Basic Plot:
Bibot is a cruel, self-centered dentist who one day receives 2 magical figs from an old woman who can’t pay her bill. She claims these figs will make his dreams come true. He doesn’t believe her, but when he finds himself walking around Paris the next day in his underpants while the Eiffel Tour bends over, he realizes she told the truth. Over the next few weeks he studies how to control his dreams, so he can dream himself into being the richest man in the world. Just as he is about to eat his last fig, his mistreated dog, Marcel, gobbles it up. Bibot is furious, but eventually goes to bed. The next day Bibot is surprised to find himself under his bed, with his own face coming towards him. He tries to scream, but can only bark. He and Marcel have switched bodies.
Why You’ll Love It:
This story is unique in that the main character is unlikable, which is a great introduction to the wide berth literature has to offer. Children used to typical happy hero stories will perk their ears to this different kind of tale. It also requires a bit of thinking on the last page to figure out that the dog’s dream came true. Children have a great Ah Ha moment when they grasp the gag. If your kids are studying France or surreal art, this book will tie beautifully into those themes. This book sparks lots of discussion and about imagination, dreams and how to treat people (and dogs).
Why Your Kids Will Love It:
The illustrations are gorgeous and richly rendered in plum tones. Budding artists will fall in love. Kids adore the surprise ending, and the underpants scene. Their innate sense of justice is vindicated in the end. Children also enjoy dabbling in the wickedness of Bibot and his neat mustache.
Best Ages:
5- 9 years old
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