William Steig Books

A whale might help a mouse, but what can a mouse do to help a whale?

William Steig (1907–2003), celebrated for his cartoons and children's books, left an enduring legacy throughout the twentieth century. This richly illustrated volume showcases over 280 of Steig's drawings, many previously unpublished, and explores the full spectrum of his work. It covers his early "Small Fry" cartoons for the New Yorker, poignant symbolic drawings from the late 1930s and 1940s, and his later, humorously incisive cartoons and beloved children’s books. Over his seventy-three years with the New Yorker, Steig contributed more than 120 covers and over 1,600 drawings in various styles, including classic cartoons and psychologically complex illustrations. His unique voice drew from his background as the son of Eastern European Jewish immigrants. In his sixties, he transitioned to writing and illustrating children's literature, creating iconic works like Sylvester and the Magic Pebble and Shrek! These projects reflect key themes in Steig's oeuvre, such as reverie, the quirks of human nature, and the transformative power of love and art. Claudia J. Nahson, along with fellow artists, writers, and Steig's family, narrates the story of a keen social observer with a vibrant imagination and deep passion for his craft.

Letters and numbers are used to create the sounds of words and simple sentences 4 u 2 figure out with the aid of illustrations.

"Doctor De Soto, the dentist, did very good work." With the aid of his able assistant, Mrs. De Soto, he copes with the toothaches of animals large and small. His expertise is so great that his fortunate patients never feel any pain. Since he's a mouse, Doctor De Soto refuses to treat "dangerous" animals--that is, animals who have a taste for mice. But one day a fox shows up and begs for relief from the tooth that's killing him. How can the kindhearted De Sotos turn him away? But how can they make sure that the fox doesn't give in to his baser instincts once his tooth is fixed? Those clever De Sotos will find a way.

On a rainy day, Sylvester finds a magic pebble that can make wishes come true. But when a lion frightens him on his way home, Sylvester makes a wish that brings unexpected results. How Sylvester is eventually reunited with his loving family and restored to his true self makes a story that is beautifully tender and filled with magic. Illustrated with William Steig's glowing pictures, this is a modern classic beloved by children everywhere. Selected as one of the 100 Best Books of the Century by the National Education Association.

When Pete feels miserable because rain makes it impossible to play ball outdoors, his father finds a fun indoor game to play with his son

William Steig's Abel's Island narrates the journey of a mouse, Abel, who is separated from his beloved wife, Amanda, due to a sudden flood. Once secure in his comfortable life, Abel finds himself stranded on an uninhabited island, where he struggles to return home. Despite his determination and various attempts to cross the river—using boats, ropes, and stepping-stones—he is unable to find a way back. As days turn into weeks and months, Abel adapts to his new reality, foraging for food and creating a warm nest in a hollow log. He also carves clay statues of his family for companionship while contemplating his predicament. This time on the island forces Abel to reassess the simple comforts of his previous life and discover hidden skills and talents that could lead to a more meaningful existence. His solitary struggle for survival ultimately transforms his understanding of the world he left behind. The story highlights themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the appreciation of life's simple pleasures. Recognized as a 1976 New York Times Book Review Notable Children's Book and a 1977 Newbery Honor Book, it was also adapted into a short animated film in 1988.

Horribly hideous Shrek leaves home and terrifies everyone he encounters in his search for his equally ugly bride.

A stick or a stone? A cat or a dog? Rain or snow? Which would you rather be?

Roland sets out to see the world, armed with his lute and his sweet voice, but a scheming fox almost roasts him before he is rescued by the king.