Preposterous Plot

Working with children everyday affords frequent glimpses into thought processes that cause me to wonder. Where did some of the ideas originate? However did the children imagine them? Perhaps some have come from book characters and plots. The latest title by Mordicai Gerstein could certainly be an influence in that area. Just consider the title: HOW TO BICYCLE TO THE MOON TO PLANT SUNFLOWERS: A SIMPLE BUT BRILLIANT PLAN IN 24 EASY STEPS.

The young narrator begins by telling his parents how the full moon appeared to have a sad face, probably because it is lonely. By traveling to the moon to plant sunflowers, the boy is certain he can provide some cheer. And thus begins THE PLAN. Numbered clearly and succinctly explained, each step includes one of the artist's cheery and detailed illustrations that make that plan clear...and almost believable. Each time I had a procedural question (probably because of my grown-up mindset), that clever boy had a plausible answer. What if, for instance, one starts to cry, wondering why the plan was ever enacted? "If you do, your tears will float around in your helmet like transparent marble. DON'T TURN BACK, You're almost there, KEEP PEDALING,"

Of course, most of this plot is preposterous. But that boy sure makes a good case for THE PLAN. Kids will love this book.

p.s. It seems preposterous to some people that I enjoy snow! I was quite pleased to have big flakes falling yesterday.