Sick Simon by Dan Krall

     

     Sick Simon, the lead character in the aptly titled story by author/illustrator Dan Krall (character designer for Coraline & How to Train Your Dragon films, to name a few) and I have a lot in common this past week.  It seems that the itchy sniffles, grating cough and achy feeling all over have unfortunately plagued us both during this endless cold and flu season.  But, as our tale begins, we quickly learn Simon doesn't let a cold stop him from having the best week ever, or does it?
     After kissing his family and riding the school bus alongside all of his classmates, Simon freely spreads his germs to everyone who crosses his path. While working on math problems in class, when a sneeze comes along, Simon lets his germs fly across the room, much to the horror of his chums!  And, after days go by that were filled with snack sharing (with unclean hands), show and tell (of one of Simon's grimy stuffed animals), Simon can't wait for Friday, the, "Superbig game of kickball!" But, no one is there, as all of Simon's friends and teachers at school have become infected with his cold!  While traveling alone on the school bus on the way home, Simon starts to hear some voices from three germs named Virus, Protozoa and Bacteria, all congratulating him for a job well done.  Will Simon ever find the err in his grimy, gross, germy ways?
     Filled with a infectiously humorous (couldn't resist!!), timeless message about the power of good hygiene practices, alongside grossly charming illustrations, Krall's Sick Simon is an absolutely MUST HAVE tale in every teacher's and family's bookshelf.  (So, go now, and make sure you wash those hands!)

Sick Simon
Written and Illustrated by Dan Krall
Publisher:  Atheneum Books for Young Readers (January, 2015)
Website:
ISBN: 978-1442-490970
Retails for $17.99 (Hardcover)
For ages 4 thru 8