Simon and the Better Bone

"The illustrations are so warm and scribbly one can almost feel the yarn and fluff of this dog. The moral here is that our reflections contain not only what we possess, but also what we have lost and what we have given— in an act of kindness — away." — New York Times "Giving readers a front-row seat to a comical encounter based on Aesop’s “The Dog and His Reflection,” Tabor once again takes a picture book’s physical form into account, asking readers to open it vertically. Digitally assembled pencil, colored pencil, and acrylic art, which combines textures scribbly and velvety, chronicles Simon’s unsuccessful attempts to best his “scrawny little” rival with a series of challenges and a “polite warning.” Is Simon a silly dog? Of course—and a real sweetheart, too." — Publishers Weekly (starred review) "Young listeners will explode into giggles as they recognize Simon’s toddlerlike mistakes, all the while appreciating his good (and not-so-good) intentions. Tabor’s smudgy illustrations depict Simon with warmth and humor in a gentle park setting... the author/illustrator also deftly folds in a joke-filled lesson about sharing and friendship. Kids will fall in love with this enticing introduction to Aesop—and with Simon. A charming, clever, and feel-good version of a classic fable." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "This book's unique orientation cleverly uses the gutter in the vertical double-page spreads to show Simon and his reflection. Tabor effectively uses simple lines and curves to show Simon's dynamic emotions and movements. The pastel color palette complements the gentle tone, while the exuberant scribbles in colored pencil and joyful dabs of acrylic paint underscore the childlike spirit of the story. This is sure to be a storytime favorite." — Booklist "Tabor updates Aesop’s Fable “The Dog and His Reflection” with a little more goofiness and a bit less pedantry, and the clever unfolding layout of pages to reveal Simon’s reflection immediately brings kids in on the joke, ensuring storytime engagement. Smudgy, dappled textures in pastoral hues make a cheerful background for shaggy brown Simon whose expressive tail and ears effortlessly convey his joy, frustration, and glee." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books "Tabor’s book once again makes smart use of vertical orientation to enhance this story. The preschoolers at whom this playful story is aimed will delight in being one up on the main character. Friendly pastel-hued illustrations with white space and loose, energetic lines capture the abundant vigor of a young pup. The egocentric stage of a child’s development has never been so expertly (and adorably) depicted." — The Horn Book "Students will be laughing and cheering for poor little Simon and his very real struggle. The heartwarming ending gives students an example of how to be a good friend, even through conflict." — School Library Journal