Cannonball Simp (Red Fox picture books) Book

What child could resist Simp, the small, fat ugly little dog who nobody wants? Unable to find a home for her, her owner dumps her near a rubbish tip but even the rats ask her to move on. Simp finally stumbles upon a circus and is taken in by a clown. But the clown has his problems too as his act, firing a rubber ball from a cannon, is becoming boring. The ringmaster gives him one last chance to improve and Simp sees exactly how she can help. She curls up inside the cannon in place of the balland when the cannon is fired ‘WHOOOSH!' out comes Simp giving the clown quite a surprise and delighting the crowds. Suddenly the clown and Simp are celebrities and Simp has a happy home and someone to love her at last. As ever, John Burningham's attention to detail in the text and dramatic and colourful illustrations create a compelling whole which is doubtless why the book has had so many years' success. Simp will continue to win the hearts of children who will love the story's exciting climax and enjoy the satisfaction of seeing both Simp and her friend the clown helping each other out and Living happily together. (Ages 4 and over) --Alison JardineRead More