Lois Lenski's Big Big Book of Mr. Small by Lois Lenski (1986, Hardcover)

The stories in this book were first published in the 1930's. I read them as a child in the 1960's. They depict the work-a-day life of Mr. Small in various roles. Although some details are outdated, the values that Lenski demonstrates of honesty, integrity, kindness, hard work, civic duty, and appreciation of the beauty around us, are still essential for children to learn. Her artwork is done from a child's perspective. The houses and yards are welcoming. As a kid, I wanted to walk in to the open doors. A child likes a world that has order, makes sense to him, is clearly defined.
When Mr. Small faces challenges: a flat tire, a clogged fuel line in his airplane, he remains calm and thinks through the situation to solve the problem. The charm and warmth of Lenski's artwork fills this book. She ties all the stories together as well. Mr. Small sees his auto, his house and his sailboat as he flies overhead in his airplane.
I am an artist and have compared the color quality of the artwork in this book, published in 1985, to her early books. The color here lacks the richness and warmth of her early books. I also prefer the small-sized, single-book versions to this large book. However, I don't think a child would notice these details and I recommend this book highly. It would make a great gift to pass along to the next generation as an heirloom.