Ferdinand the Bull

Ah, we're getting closer to number one. This week, we discuss our 5th all-time children's story. The jacket on this one got worn out in our house to be sure. The Story of Ferdinand is a classic tale about a bull who operates outside the boundaries of expectation. He is not a ferocious bull, he does not snort or stamp his feet. Rather, he just likes to sit in the shade of a cork tree and smell the flowers.

Ferdinand the Bull makes our list for several reasons. First of all, it is just a great story, with a wonderful plot line. The circumstances that draw Ferndinand into the bull ring are simple, yet ingenious. Who knew that sitting on a bee could turn a passive, gentle male cow into a rip snorting, matador-mangling, devil? Well, obviously Munro Leaf did. His story, coupled with Robert Dawson's drawings make this a masterpiece of children's literature.

The next reason we like this book so much is how Ferdinand the bull stays true to himself. There is so much emphasis on how children should be raised. Some parents feel pressure to do this or that with their kids because of what society is telling them. But in this story, his mom quickly realizes that her son is no ordinary bull, destined for the sting of the matador's blade. And she doesn't let pride or prejudice change her approach. Now granted, this might be a reach of analysis; but still, I think it's a wonderful element to draw out of this timeless story.

Finally, our kids loved this story. I can't tell you how many times we've read this story. Ironically, we just watched the Sandra Bullock movie, "The Blind Side" the other day. It is the modern retelling of the famed story, but Michael Oher substitutes for Ferdinand the bull. It is no peculiar coincidence that Munro Leaf's book is actually read in the movie.

So #5 in our countdown is The Story of Ferdinand, by Munro Leaf, illustrated by Robert Dawson. Enjoy!