The Story of Red Rubber Ball

I recently signed out three children's books from my local library, and my nearly-three-year-old daughter requested that I read this particular book to her over and over again. Since I returned it to the library, she has asked for it. Therefore I am now purchasing this book. Why this book? I think the story of the ball being apparently abandoned but then taken in by a dog in the end "to keep" is very comforting. Everything that happens in between is simple and sweet, my daughter has memorized much of the story. I haven't become sick of reading it to her either!

This charming little story engages young minds with a fervor reminiscent of my own recollections of "Where the Wild Things Are" and "The Little Brute Family." A brief, compact little masterpiece, "The Story of Red Rubber Ball" should thrust Ms. Levy into a class of children's authors alongside Maurice Sendak, Lillian Moore, Russell Hoban and Shel Silverstein. The writing is crisp, with no wasted words, and is infused with Ms. Levy's trademark use of alliteration and clever rhyme (never forced). My 3-year old daughter adores this book, and so will any other child lucky enough to have it.