Steig, W. (1969). Sylvester and the Magic Pebble. [New York]: Scholastic.

Exposition:

Sylvester had a happy life with his father and mother, and loved collecting unusual pebbles.

Conflict:

While exploring one day, Sylvester finds a particularly unusual pebble that seems to grant wishes.

Rising Action:

On his way home with the magic pebble, Sylvester runs into a lion. In his panic, Sylvester wishes to be a rock, and magically, the pebble turns him into one.

Climax:

After the lion leaves, Sylvester realizes he cannot change back.  His family looks for him, but over months they cannot find their son, and Sylvester cannot change from a rock.

Falling Action:

One day, Sylvester’s parents picnic on the rock that is Sylvester. They find the magic pebble, and after placing it on the rock, Sylvester is able to change back to himself.

Resolution:

Sylvester and his family return home together, and he realizes that he doesn’t need a magic pebble, because he had everything he needed with only his family.

Illustrations:

William Steig creates simple illustrations that match what was typical for the time which the book was published. The pictures are very basic and childish, but do add to the general mood of the story. They are not elaborate or complex, and they do not distract from the story.