What About Me?

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Young, Ed. 2002. WHAT ABOUT ME?. New York: Philomel Books. ISBN 0399236244

PLOT SUMMARY
In this book, Ed Young retells an ancient Sufi tale that teaches the nature of giving and receiving. A young boy wants to acquire some knowledge, so he goes to ask the Grand Master how he can gain some of his knowledge. However, the Grand Master has needs, too. He would like a carpet in exchange for his imparted wisdom. Here the story takes off on a wild chase, the boy seeking an item from various people who all are willing to give the boy what he needs if he can give them what they need. The boy finally meets a girl who can help him supply everyone with what they are looking for. As a result, he takes a carpet back to the Grand Master and learns two lessons about giving and receiving, and how knowledge may be acquired.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Young’s words flow easily throughout the pages of this retelling, with an abundance of dialogue to add voice to the simple organization of the tale. Repetition in the text and predictability will draw the attention of younger readers, while creating some anticipation in what is to come.

The bold collage artwork on a speckled background gives the book an antique look, with each page complementing the text and adding more to the story. Each character is pieced together, creatively showing off how people of the Middle East dressed as well as giving the characters a personality through the expression in their body language.

An author’s note found at the at the beginning gives readers a little background in Sufi teaching tales and their origin, allowing readers to notice various elements of this traditional tale. Although many will enjoy the story, they might miss the morals given at the end without an explanation. This book highlights a culture that is less represented in literature, making it a great multicultural addition to any library collection.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “collage illustrations frequently achieve a nearly transcendent lightness and simplicity”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “A welcome supplement to basic folk and fairy-tale collections”
starred review in BOOKLIST: “will make children think as well as smile.”

CONNECTIONS
*Begin a book study on Sufi or other Middle Eastern folktales. Discuss common themes and morals as well as the differences among the tales.
*Share this book with other multi-cultural folktales during a unit on other cultures or traditions.


*Other Sufi or Middle Eastern folktales for children are:

Shah, Idries. 2000. THE SILLY CHICKEN. Ill. by Jeff Jackson. Cambridge, MA: Hoopoe Books. ISBN 1883536197

Shah, Idries. 2006. THE CLEVER BOY AND THE TERRIBLE, DANGEROUS ANIMAL. Ill. by Rose Mary Santiago. Cambridge, MA: Hoopoe Books. ISBN 1883536642