Dick King-Smith

Just read* about Dick King-Smith's death. I wish I had written to thank him.  My boy and I read several of his books when my son was eight (see May post), and I consider him one of 
the best writers for that age, whether or not your child has a diagnosis. If your kid likes animals, s/he will probably like 
King-Smith.

"I read this book from December 6-17, 2009. I liked it because of the  first chapter. I liked the things about reading and weeding. Lollipop is in it as in the book Lady Lollipop."
That's my son's review. He thinks only the first chapter of 
Clever Lollipop as good as Lady Lollipop, and I agree, but Lady Lollipop is exceptionally charming.
  
The short chapters and plentiful illustrations make this 
a great choice for beginning or struggling readers. And 
who could resist the story of how a humble pig becomes a valued member of the royal family?
Thank you Dick King-Smith. You will be long remembered.
-Spectrum Mom


*Kara Schaff Dean
 http://www.notjustforkids.blogspot.com/ 

Dick King-Smith

Family and friends may recall that my 
boy on the spectrum recalls what day 
he read which book.  The fall of 2008 
(he was 8) was partly devoted to the 
works of Dick King-Smith. 


You may know King-Smith from Babe



probably the movie version, but
King-Smith has written many books,
usually, but not always, about animals.


My boy says we read Lady Lollipop
in September, 2008 and the
Twin Giants in October.

Whimsy and simple stories helped us
read these books, though Lady Lollipop
proved tough going sometimes. The 
Princess and her new friends the pig
Lollipop and the pig boy have sometimes
complex emotions. Kids with autism can
have a difficult time understanding
other people's emotions beyond happy
and sad. Frequent pictures helped.


Twin Giants pleased with lots of
pictures, large text, and a simple
goal oriented plot.


Perhaps King-Smith should
write a book about a giant
pig .   .    .


-Spectrum Mom