David Saltzman (–1990)

In this novel, the Jester is banished from his kingdom because the happiness and laughter are gone and he can no longer make his people laugh. The Jester, along with his helpmate Pharley, set off on a quest to find the laughter. Through trial and tribulation, the Jester travels to a modern time where he discovers that happiness and laughter are within everyone if we just take the time to find it. This book is a wonderful story that can be used to help students who may be going through traumatic events or experiencing depression. Additionally, the illustrations are beautifully done and the story is written in rhyme, making it very engaging. I highly recommend this book for any classroom… (mehr)

Summary

The Jester's job was to make people laugh. He and his wooden helper Pharley, would tell jokes, sing songs, dance and do whatever they needed to do to make people laugh and be happy. However one day the Jester appeared before the king and he was not aware that the king was in a bad mood. He did all his regular acts but the king did not laugh, neither did anyone else. In fact the king banished the Jester. He and Pharley did not give up hope. They travelled many places in the word trying to find laughter and happiness. They searched far and wide and asked many people but nobody was happy. People focused on their problems. The jester finally met a little girl in a hospital who he was able to convince to try laughing instead of crying like he did when he was sad. The little girl tried it and soon she was laughing so hard, the laughter spread to many people and eventually the Jester was able to take laughter back to his country to the king and queen. They all realized that laughter was with them all along but it was just hidden deep inside waiting for them to bring it out. And so the Jester brought laughter back to his whole city and beyond.

Critique

An interesting story that really examines the human condition. It suggests that generally we get so caught up with our lives that we do not stop to laugh and relax a little. We as a human race seem to have forgotten what it is to enjoy the happier side of life. From the king to the youngest child all have something to be sad or angry about so laughter is just cast aside. The Jester however was able to restore happiness starting with a child. This makes me think about being aware of the potential that is hidden in every child to make revolutionary changes in the world.

Prompts

P.8 The word "but" changed the mood of the story. It changed from happiness to a feeling that something bad is about to happen.
P8. The author's use of questions prepare you for what is to come. Predict what might happen next in the story.
P. 37 Reflect on how the man felt about the world. Is it really filled with pain and tears with no room for jokes? Why do you think he felt that way.
P.38 The jester was determined to make a difference. What are some ways that we can make a difference in our communities.

Craft element

The author used the complaints and opinions of people to describe the world's condition. Do you agree or disagree with the opinions of the people. Use evidence from the book, things you watch on TV, things you see or hear around you to explain why you agree or disagree with their opinions.… (mehr)