I think the finer points of the art may be lost on young readers but it does a great job of illustrating the plot and tone of the book so they should still enjoy it. It worries me that I’m missing some terrifying subtext throughout the book but I’m going to assume that it comes across as stranger than it was intended. He keeps a fair amount of realism in his bulls though his human characters are caricatures in beautifully detailed clothing which adds a comic effect.Īm I the only person that thinks Ferdinand looks ready to kill? I have no idea why he looks so frightening in that one picture. The architecture he draws is a particular delight. Lawson creates a level of detail that is very engaging. There is no reason to make it seem any more energetic than sitting under a tree and smelling the flowers. The lack of colour is a little unusual these days in a picture book but the monotone adds to the calm nature of the story. If you want to read it to kids, best to pick a quiet time to fully appreciate the charm of the story.Īrt – Robert Lawson’s art is inked, black line-work. Instead “He is very happy.” The style of storytelling is as relaxed and calming as Ferdinand’s favourite hobby. Ferdinand refuses to be what is expected. It is the world around him that clearly has its priorities mixed up. Ferdinand is an odd bull but it is never his pacifism that comes off as ridiculous. The story is ultimately a positive one about being different. True to himself, he sits quietly without fighting which frustrates everyone to the point that he is sent back home to his shady spot under the tree. He is brought to the bullfighting ring in Madrid. One day after he is stung by a bee, he is mistaken for an aggressive brute that would suit a bullfight. He grows up to be as big and strong but he remains gentle and quiet. He just wants to sit in the shade and smell the flowers. Story– Ferdinand is a sweet bull that doesn’t like to run around and butt heads like the other bulls. First Publishing by Viking Press 1936. This edition published by Grosset & Dunlap.Ī classic which may be better known for the short Disney cartoon based on it called Ferdinand the Bull.
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