A Tiger Called Thomas

Zolotows story is more to the point today when so many families are on the move, than when it was first published in 1963. Todays children seldom grow up in the neighborhoods where they were born. Todays children often find themselves in Thomass situation--trying to fit in, trying to find acceptance in their new, unfamiliar worlds. And the shy ones feel Thomass pain. They too, are afraid no one will like them.

Bluthenthal opens the book with a 2-page spread showing a forlorn Thomas sitting on the moving vans ramp. Chin in hand, Thomas sadly stares at his sneakers while his little goldfish stares up at him. The tag marked "fragile" seems to describe Thomas, not just the fishbowl for his best buddy in the world.

When you read A Tiger Called Thomas to the little ones at Story Time, you can see some of the kids nodding their heads in agreement with Thomass refrains of, "Maybe she wouldnt like me..." or, "They might not like me..." or, "I dont think hed like me." You get the feeling that those youngsters know what its like to walk in Thomass sneakers--and that they themselves havent discovered yet what Thomas himself discovers by the end of his Trick or Treat night.

As you continue reading though, youll see the smiles that light their small, shy faces as you reach the end of the story, when they, as well as Thomas, discover that their loneliness can easily be banished. Its a wonderful feeling for you as well as for them.

This book isnt just for the little ones at your library, nursery school, or day care. If you have your own Thomas or Thomasina, its a wonderfully non-threatening way to approach your youngsters shyness. (You might also be interested in getting a copy of Bernardo J. Carduccis new book, The Shyness Breakthrough: A No-Stress Plan to Help Your Shy Child Warm Up, Open Up, and Join the Fun.)

I have to admit Im a dyed-in-the-wool fan of Diana Cain Bluthenthal. Im firmly convinced that ANY book written or illustrated by her is a delight to read. She has a gentleness, a kindness, a playfulness of spirit that always shows. Her books bring smiles of pleasure to those who read, or listen to, them. A Tiger Called Thomas is no different.

Dont save this book just for Halloween. Whip it out whenever you see kids in need of its gentle story--a story that may give them the courage to overcome their shyness. Read it to them with a smile and a hug. Youll all be glad you did.

And dont forget to grab Meaner Than Meanest--a funny Halloween story by Kevin Somers and Diana Cain Bluthenthal.