Two Brothers
Kindness makes the world go around.
Morris and Boris are brothers who look like twins—even down to the small humps on their backs. Morris is kind and helpful to everyone he meets. Boris is impatient and unkind. When Boris refuses to take his turn to go check on their hut in the woods, Morris volunteers to go rather than have an argument. The forest is enchanted: eyes peek out of every bush and rustling can be heard in the leaves. Morris takes care not to disturb or destroy animals and plants. Respecting nature with every step, he makes friends with tendrils, toadstools, and the forest itself. In the dark of the night, the tree spirits and forest witch give him something that he will never forget—they make his hump go away. When Boris sees his transformed brother he runs up the mountain. But instead of having reverence for the creatures around him, Boris tramples carelessly through the forest. Before long, the beings of the magic wood come forth. How will the mushrooms and the tender plant elves react? And what will the forest witch give him? Boris wonders why he has not been treated the same as his kind brother, but when Boris’ own dog recoils in fear from his hand, he realizes he must change his ways.
The book’s biggest appeal is its imaginative forest scenes, with detailed full-color and black-and-white illustrations bringing every sentient leaf and mushroom to life; tree trunks and flowers have faces, and branches intertwine in endless, often delicate, patterns.
Kirkus Reviews
Children will find this ancient tale relatable and will recall people in their lives who resemble the siblings. The illustrations are intricately detailed, appearing in black and white with periodic profusions of color.
Portland Book Review
in the mold of a classic fairytale with an underlying message about personal values, and would make an excellent and popular addition to both school and community library picturebook shelves.
Midwest Book Review
This is a fabulous read, a must for elementary school libraries. A wonderful book to share with students to teach about fairytales and folklore. Students will want to check this book out over and over again.
Kiss the Book blog