Magical Hands [Hardcover]

Marjorie Barker (Author), Yoshi (Illustrator)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 1989 | Age Level: 3 and up

As William, the big, burly cooper listens to his friends talking about the perfect birthday--a day free of chores--he looks down at his rough hands and smiles. It wouldn't be magic, but it would be fun, and he had what was needed to make a birthday wish come true for each of his friends.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

PreSchool-Grade 3-- When his friends wish that someone would relieve them of their daily tasks on their birthdays so they can celebrate, William the cooper merely smiles. But as each birthday comes, he gets up early and secretly completes each friend's chores. Whether arranging fruit, washing windows, or kneading bread, William uses his magical hands to help. On his own birthday, he arrives in his shop to discover that his wood has been sawed, sorted, and stacked. The book's slow pace and subtle humor limit its appeal. Yoshi's illustrations are shadowy, and the scenes of the four peasants around a cafe table having coffee are reminiscent of some of Van Gogh's early works. The dark hues of the illustrations, juxtaposed with the beige background of the text, create a somber atmosphere that does little to express the joy William experiences in his friendships. The smiles on the men's faces seem at odds with the brooding atmosphere. For small group or individuals sharing, the book may hold interest, but the friendships here will never rival such classic picture-book relationships as "Frog and Toad" (Harper) or "George and Martha" (Houghton). --Kathy Piehl, Mankato State University, MN
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 3 and up
  
• Hardcover: 26 pages
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster (Juv) (December 1989)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0887081037
• ISBN-13: 978-0887081033
• Product Dimensions: 10.4 x 8.6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,507,659 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Reaches the head, heart, and hand., October 20, 1999

By 

A Customer (USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Magical Hands (Hardcover)

This book was shared with me in one of my children literature college classes. I fell in love with the book! It is great for all ages. This book touches the heart and teaches children (and adults) how to care and love for others in an unselfish way. It teaches all to actively engage in serving our fellow man with out any thought of personal reward. It also encourages people to reach out to others and better the lives of those around us. This book is essential in teaching morals. It is a must in every home and classroom. Please reprint it!!!!

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful compelling story of genuine friendship., September 21, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Magical Hands (Hardcover)

This is a simple story of the friendship between three men and the gifts of kindness and thoughtfulness. The illustrations are outstanding. While the concept is not unique it is told in a manner which can be appreiciated by all ages. It is my most favorite children's story. Unfortunately I lost my signed copy.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A WONDERFUL STORY ABOUT THE TRUE MEANING OF FRIENDSHIP!!!, December 3, 1998

By 

K. Trinque - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Magical Hands (Hardcover)

I highly recommend this book!! I read this story to my sixth grade class. They absolutely loved it. The story brings tears to your eyes. A must read for all ages!