Simon the Fiddler goes on a bender in Zemach’s folksy parable. In the beginning, he has everything he needs, including “a bed to sleep in, food to eat, clothes to wear . . . and good friends.” But when he decides he must have more, he spins out of control, filling his home with an ever-expanding collection of chairs, hats, and toy animals. Thankfully, Simon eventually learns to apply a little self-control; he even comes up with a clever—and generous—way to purge the excess. Zemach’s uncluttered writing and engaging watercolors, presented as full-bleed spreads, framed vignettes, and more, get the message across. She delivers an important lesson here, from which young readers and not a few adults will benefit. (Picture book. 4-8)
