"Where the Sidewalk Ends" by Shel Silverstein is a captivating collection of poems and drawings that has enchanted readers since its publication, serving as a gateway to a world where imagination and reality blend seamlessly.

This book is a treasure trove of wit, wisdom, and whimsy, presenting a range of themes from the mundane to the fantastical, all approached with Silverstein's signature blend of humour, tenderness, and a dash of the absurd. The poems traverse the spectrum of childhood experiences and emotions, from the joy of catching a whale with a small fishing hook to the reflective quiet of watching shadows grow into the night.

Silverstein's artful drawings complement his verses perfectly, adding a visual layer that enriches the poetic experience. His ability to address complex emotions and ideas in a simple, accessible manner makes this collection a profound experience for readers of all ages.

"Where the Sidewalk Ends" invites us to look beyond the concrete of our everyday lives and find the endless possibilities that imagination can offer, making it a timeless classic that continues to inspire wonder and delight in the hearts of those who journey through its pages. ( )

This book is my American childhood. This is every afternoon at school, from kindergarten in 1977 to third grade in 1980, sitting on the floor in a semi-circle around various teachers (respected Mrs Case, beloved Mrs Sobel, unlovely and feared Mrs Baumgartner, glorious, worshipped Mizz Grundy) and hearing all about Sarah Cynthia Sylvia Stout. I can hear my esteemed 6-year-old colleague Patrick reading "What a Day" in high-pitched, giggling mid-western drawl. I remember feeling so sorry for the Australian kids I met when we returned to Melbourne in 1980. I went into Grade 4 and they'd never heard of [a:Shel Silverstein|435477|Shel Silverstein|http://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1201029128p2/435477.jpg]! Poor deprived mites. They'd got [a:May Gibbs|126595|May Gibbs|http://www.goodreads.com/assets/nophoto/user/f_50x66-e0ba3b90c110cd67123d6a850d85373e.png]. Urgh. Give me the subversive Mr Silverstein any day. ( )

ages 5+
Golden Archer Award (Wisconsin)
Amazon.com Customers’ Favorite
New York Times Notable
New York Times Outstanding Book
ALA Notable Children’s Book
George C. Stone Center for Children's Books Recognition of Merit Award

Independent Reading Level: 2nd-5th grade.

I love this book. I memorized SICK when I was in school and recited it. My copy I've had since Dec 1990 and it is inscribed as a gift to me:
"To JeriLynn [sp] May your life be filled with happiness! We love you, Joe, Judy & Marie" ( )