Big Little Brother

Author Kevin Kling, Illustrations by Chris Monroe

Minnesota Historical Society Press (November 1, 2011)

This charming first children’s book by celebrated storyteller Kevin Kling, with whimsical drawings by Chris Monroe, traces a familiar arc from sibling rivalry to brotherly love.

Description

Being an older brother has its benefits, of that there’s little doubt. But how would you feel if your little brother grew to be bigger than you? And what if he insisted on touching all your things and following you everywhere you went? It’s enough to frustrate the most even-keeled of kids.

The narrator of Big Little Brother wants nothing more than to escape his brother’s sticky fingers. Then an encounter at the old Woman in the Shoe play area teaches him that a pesky younger sibling can actually be a pal. Maybe having a brother, big or small, is a blessing after all.

Storyteller Kevin Kling, described as “one of our great national treasures” by public radio personality KristaTippett, has delighted audiences through his performances, plays, and audio and printed collections for decades. Illustrator Chris Monroe brings her witty, slightly subversive artistic sense to this heartwarming tale. the result is a playful, tender look at the familiar pains and joys of being a sibling.

Also of interest: Big Little Mother

Author information

Storyteller Kevin Kling is the author of two books and several plays, including the musical Busytown, with composer Michael Koerner, based on the classic and amusing picture books by Richard Scarry. Painter and cartoonist Chris Monroe draws the weekly comic strip Violet Days and is the author and illustrator of Monkey with a Tool Belt and Sneaky Sheep, among other books for children.

Reviews and news

Praise for Big Little Brother:

“Big Little Brother is an exceptionally funny and bittersweet book that any reader, young or old, who has been an older sibling will warm to.”
New York Times

Story time guide and videos

Download the Big Little Brother Story Time Guide (PDF)

• 48 pages
• 48 color illus.
• 10 x 10 inches
• ISBN: 9780873518444