I used to read this to school classes when they visited the library, I also 'hammed it up' (I prefer 'put character into it') at that passage... the youngest (first grade) kids loved it, and even the older ones (fourth grade) would ask for it regularly.

You have to remember that this book was written 45 years ago, when life was a little simpler and less garishly intrusive than it is now. The muted colours are a boon to the eye after some of the neon colours and glaring artwork that prevail these days, the story simple and honest - no hidden codes or surprise endings.

Reading it as an adult, with an adult mind, expecting the sort of shock and schlock things we have become used to, it does seem a pedestrian, outdated and dull book. Read it as a child, open to all experiences, innocent and uncorrupted, and it is as pointed out above, a moving tale of imagination, self appraisment, learning consequences and reassurance.

LTS