When a child finds a good stick, there's plenty of entertainment ahead. Not a Stick shows us the magic that happens when such a simple object finds itself in the hands of someone filled with imagination.
In this case, a little pig wields the stick on each page, as an unseen grownup tosses out warnings to "be careful with that stick," and "watch where you point that stick." The pig corrects the speaker with each admonishment, countering, "This is not a stick." And we see exactly what he's talking about, as the same line drawing from the previous page is incorporated into a fantasy scene like leading a parade, riding a horse, and slaying a dragon.
Not a Stick is the followup to Antoinette Portis' award-winning book, Not a Box. Bet you can guess what that one's about ;) Her simple drawings and subtle usage of color capture the essence of these objects, as well as the imaginary adventures. This book reminds me of Harold and the Purple Crayon, in every good way. Highly recommended!
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