Dimity Dumpty: The Story of Humpty's Little Sister (ISBN 0763630780)

A Little Girl Comes out of her Shell:
The story of Humpty Dumpty is known far and wide. Most people, however, have never heard of his little sister, Dimity. She's a shy little Dumpty who prefers to play her flute than take the spotlight with her circus family. When Humpty falls, Dimity will need to overcome her timid nature in order to get help. Bob Graham's new twist to an old tale is about a shy little girl who must come out of her shell--so to speak--when her brother gets hurt. Through Dimity's actions, Graham suggests that even the most timid of children can be heard when they must, and there's no shame in being a quiet sort if they so choose. Aside from that message, Graham also demonstrates how fun it can be to use your imagination to go beyond familiar old stories. This is a decent choice for children in the early grades, as well as those of preschool age. Reviewed by Christina Wantz Fixemer 03/05/2007

A funny new twist on an old, old tale:
Another winner by Bob Graham, one of my favorite comtemporary children's book authors. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at the Dumpty family, where the rambunctious Humpty falls off a wall while spray-painting his name across the bricks, and shy little sister Dimity sits by herself on quiet hillsides where she can play the flute alone. In this incarnation, the Dumptys are circus performers (an acrobatic act, no less!) although the demure Dimity shies away from the spotlight. She's the one who rescues her little brother, though, when he has his great fall, showing that though she is shy, she can still have great courage. This one's a bit of an oddball lark, different than most of Graham's other books, but no less appealing. A fun reimagining of a classic nursery rhyme, as well. This one was a big favorite in our household, with numerous requests to readitagaindaddy and lengthy discussions about Humpty's mishaps and Dimity's bravery. Chances are, you'll like it, too!

Satisfying exploration and expansion upon a classic.:
Bob Graham's DIMITY DUMPTY: THE STORY OF HUMPTY'S LITTLE SISTER tells of a brave little egg sister who is shy in the face of her older rascal brother, until she gets a flute and some courage. When her brother takes a great fall her bravery really shines in this satisfying exploration and expansion upon a classic.