Quick Take

There are more ways than one to view the Devil and his works. In this collection of ten original stories, Natalie Babbitt offers us a middle-aged Old Scratch with a tender ego, proud of Hell and anxious for his reputation; a plotter at once pompous and naive who has a way of losing as often as he wins. Nothing metaphysical here--this devil, rather, has an all-too-human nature.Some of his adventures in the World--for instance, his run-in with Walpurgis, a talking goat--are good for a laugh. Some, like the story of the clergyman who finds a demon's baby on the steps of the church, will leave readers thoughtful.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Devil's Storybook

Introduction

"The Devil's Storybook" by Natalie Babbitt is a captivating collection of ten original stories that offer a unique perspective on the Devil and his works. Babbitt presents an Old Scratch with a tender ego and an all-too-human nature, challenging readers to reconsider their perceptions of the devil. This book is a delightful read for those who enjoy creative fables, flash fiction, and stories that explore philosophical themes.

About Natalie Babbitt

Natalie Babbitt, the author of "The Devil's Storybook," was an American writer and illustrator of children's books. She attended Laurel School for Girls and Smith College, and she had three children. Babbitt was married to Samuel Fisher Babbitt and was the grandmother of three. She was a board member of the National Children's Book and Literacy Alliance, a national not-for-profit organization that advocates for literacy, literature, and libraries. Babbitt's writing style was characterized by her ability to create engaging stories that both children and adults can enjoy.

Analysis of Views

Humorous and Entertaining: Readers appreciate the humor and entertainment value of the stories in "The Devil's Storybook." The tales feature the Devil as a relatable character, making it easy for readers to connect with him. The stories are concise and well-crafted, allowing readers to enjoy them in a short amount of time.
Unique Perspective on the Devil: The book offers a fresh perspective on the Devil, portraying him as a middle-aged character with an ego rather than the traditional depiction of an evil figure. This approach allows readers to see the devil in a new light, making it an intriguing read for those interested in exploring different interpretations of mythology.
Moral Lessons: Many readers find the stories in "The Devil's Storybook" to have moral lessons that resonate with them. Each tale presents a moral or metaphor that readers can reflect upon, making it a book that encourages introspection and thoughtfulness.
Clever Writing: Babbitt's writing style is praised for its cleverness and wit. The author's ability to incorporate humor and sly humor into the stories adds depth to the narrative and keeps readers engaged. The use of metaphors and symbolism in the stories also adds an extra layer of meaning, making the book a rich reading experience.
Appropriate for Children and Adults: The book is suitable for both children and adults, making it a great read for families or individuals who enjoy reading together. The stories are lighthearted and accessible, yet they still contain deeper philosophical themes that adult readers can appreciate.

Reasons for Recommendation

Engaging Storytelling: Babbitt's storytelling skills are highly praised by readers, who find the tales engaging and captivating. The concise nature of the stories makes it easy for readers to pick up and put down the book without feeling overwhelmed or obligated to read it all at once.
Moral Lessons: The book offers moral lessons that readers can learn from, making it a valuable addition to any reading list. The stories challenge readers to consider their own actions and how they impact others, making it a thought-provoking read that encourages personal growth.
Unique Perspective on the Devil: The unique portrayal of the Devil in "The Devil's Storybook" sets it apart from other books in the genre. Readers appreciate the fresh take on an old mythological character, which adds depth and interest to the narrative.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Religious Sensitivity: Some readers may find the book challenging due to its portrayal of the Devil and its exploration of religious themes. The book has been banned in some schools due to concerns about exposing children to occult content, which may be a concern for parents with strong religious beliefs.
Lack of Depth: While some readers appreciate the concise nature of the stories in "The Devil's Storybook," others feel that they lack depth or substance. Some readers may feel that they want more exploration of the characters or themes presented in the book, which may leave them feeling unsatisfied with the reading experience.

Conclusion

"The Devil's Storybook" by Natalie Babbitt is a delightful collection of ten original stories that offer a unique perspective on the Devil and his works. Babbitt's clever writing style, engaging storytelling, and moral lessons make it a recommended read for both children and adults. While some readers may find it challenging due to its religious themes or lack of depth, overall, "The Devil's Storybook" is a captivating read that explores philosophical ideas in an entertaining manner.