Review - The Sad Little Fact

The Sad Little Fact
by Jonah Winter
illustrated by Pete Oswald
Date: 2019
Publisher: Schwartz & Wade
Reading level: C
Book type: picture book
Pages: 40
Format: e-book
Source: library

In these days of fake news and lies masquerading as truth, a New York Times bestselling author and the illustrator of The Bad Seed deliver a perfectly timed, humorous read-aloud to prove that the truth is out there, just waiting to be discovered.

In this spare, ingenious story that reads like a modern-day parable, follow a sad little fact that is locked away for telling the truth. In its underground prison, it meets other facts, all hidden away because they could not lie. Finally, with the help of a few skillful fact finders, the facts are able to spread truth--something that ultimately can't be denied. Though some people continue to ignore them, the facts are out in the world, ready for anyone who wants to hear, because "a fact is a fact," and that's that.

(synopsis from Goodreads)

This one of those picture books that's bound to be appreciated by adults, but is also straightforward enough to be understood by kids.

In this story, there's a sad little fact. I guess he's sad because people laugh at him and call him a lie. One day, the Authorities come looking for him and try to get him to admit he's a lie. But he can't and won't, so he gets stuffed in a box with all the other facts and buried underground, all while the Authorities churn out their own "facts" that run amok through the world. Eventually, those in search of the truth find the facts and let them out, and while not everybody is happy about it, those with the ability to think are glad to have the facts out in the open again.

The whole book is pretty much a metaphor. It's pretty clear who the good guys and bad guys are, too. The authorities are tall and faceless, with boots and red gloves. The alternative facts all look angry, even when they clearly have most of the power. (Sound familiar?)

Of course, there are going to be some who hate this book. That's fine. But for those with open minds, this is a great reminder of why the truth is important.

A fact is a fact.

Quotable moment:

Premise: 5/5
Meter: n/a
Writing: 4/5
Illustrations: 4/5
Originality: 5/5

Enjoyment: 5/5

Overall: 4.67 out of 5