Customer Reviews

The Flower Man

5 star:		(13)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

"A picture is worth a thousand words" and in this beautifully illustrated book this statement couldn't be more true. Although there are no words to explain this story, none are needed. It is a simple story of how one tiny old man can positevly effect the people and community he moves into.
This book is also a wonderful tool to let your child tell you a story. With a childs imagination the possibilities are endless.

In this delightful book without words, the reader is encouraged to explore rich illustrations and create her own story from the myriad of characters on each page. The Flower Man performs the random acts of kindness and the effect is that of a pebble tossed in a very big pond. It is inspiring to see the actions of one person impacting the lives of the other characters. My 19 year old daughter fell in love with this book, although it is a gift for a four year old.

This book has so many interpretations. Each time I have "read" it I find more treasure to interpret as I like. Great for all ages, the story is timeless with many hidden characters, Jimmy Stewart for one example.

Great escape for older readers, fun discovery for the younger set.

The Flower Man caught my retired pre-kindergarten teacher's eye on a bookstore shelf, and after finding the artwork delightfully intriguing, I realized the story was "right up my alley." I bought it. When I sat down at home to really "read" its picture-stories, I realized this was no quick-read. I followed most of the characters, one at a time, through successive pages, seeing their transformation--all because of "the flower man." So simple; so profoundly spiritual! From darkness to colorful light; from sadness to joy. I have recommended it many times, and have bought several copies to give away. I shall continue to do so.

I loved this book. The illustrations are wonderful, and the story is captivating, even without words. This is definitely a book for young and old alike, and those who have an attention to detail, are creative, and love to create a story of their own. I have given this book to a few people on special occasions, and they have all raved about it.

I cannot imagine why this man has not yet received a Caldecott.
Everthing he illustrates is pure magic.

I discovered this book at the library when looking for a story for a children's program. I found that it is a beautiful story though there are no words. The beautiful images help children use their imagination. Creates wonderful dialogue about relationships and helping others. A wonderful gift for any age. Once you read it, you will want to share it with someone. Enjoy!

This is such a touching story. This beautifully drawn book made me smile. I don't usually buy a book after I check it out from the library, but I have to have this one. No family should be without this book.

This book is fantastic. It has nearly no words, but has countless stories told in pictures through its beautiful illustrations. There are also seek and find features like a tiny mouse hidden on every page.
We were given a copy for my Son's 2nd birthday and after the 3rd night of my wife and I hunting through it ourselves while he was asleep, we decided to buy 5 copies as gifts for all of our friends with small children. Do yourself and your kids a favor and buy this book!

Amazing! There are so many illustrators that draw to just draw. Mark Ludy's book's have meaning. This one is one of his best! There is such an overwhelming sense of joy throughout the book. There are so many story lines to follow and everyone I've shown the book to loves trying to find "squeakers", the small mouse conspicuously hidden in every drawing. Every art room, school library, and home should have this book!

Today (1/20/06), in anticipation of the announcement of the Caldecott award three days from now, I participated in a 'mock' Caldecott committee. Present were two of our librarians who actually served on the real Caldecott committee in the past. Most of the 15 people on our 'mock' committee have extensive experience with children's literature. In a voting process similar to the real Caldecott committee we ended up choosing "The Flower Man" as our winner. Three other books among our runner up choices were "Zen Shorts" by Jon Muth, "Show Way" by Jacqueline Woodson, Hudson Talbott (illustrator), and "I ain't gonna paint no more" by Karen Beaumont, David Catrow (illustrator). One book I particularly liked that didn't make it to the final round of our voting was "Clara and Asha" by Eric Rohmann.