Sidney & Norman

October 30, 2006
Vischer, co-creator of the popular Veggie Tales characters, here offers a poignant fable about how pride can instigate one's fall. Though pigs Sidney and Norman live right next door to each other, they've never met. They also couldn't be more different. Norman is a churchgoing neatnik and a stickler for rules, proud of his accomplishments and charitable giving. Sidney is a messy and rumpled fellow who is forever running late and getting in trouble with his boss. When both pigs get a printed invitation from God himself for an appointed visit, each believes he knows how the meeting will go. Of course, they couldn't be more wrong. But the surprising encounter does clarify for each pig his strengths and shortcomings, and assures both porkers of God's unconditional love for them. Gerard crafts his digital renderings of the anthropomorphic pigs, gamely navigating the human rat race, in a golden/sepia tone, giving them an intriguing, timeless feel. Author's notes include personal insights and suggestions on how to use this title with children. Ages 5-10.

VeggieTales creator Phil Vischer narrates his children's story. Vischer's performance is a good match for his whimsical fantasy of the plight of Sidney and Norman, two very different pigs who receive an invitation to meet God. Norman, fastidious and punctual, looks down upon his neighbor, Sidney, who struggles with being neat and staying on schedule. This amusing tale for children teaches lessons on pride and humility at the same time that it entertains. Vischer's voice and the background music hold one's attention. At the end of the story he adds a brief devotional on the importance of loving our neighbors. Vischer's talent is evident in both story and narration. N.L. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine