The Boy Who Sprouted Antlers

by John; Blake Quentin Yeoman, Quentin Blake (Illustrator)

What about growing horns then? challenged Melanie. I will then! shouted Billy. Immediately he has taken up the challenge to grow horns Billy Dexter passionately wished that he hadn't, after all he could only fail. However, the next morning Billy's head feels itchy and then no doubt about it, there are bumps on the head. Within a week the boy has the most splendid head of antlers ever. Everyone gets used to them - Billy and his friends, his parents and even his teacher and the head but will the antlers stay for ever, or will Billy find a way to get rid of them? A charming and humorous story about the power of the mind and daring to be different.

Genres: Fiction

64 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1961

Reviews

[Erin Buhr · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think quirky and charming are the two best words to describe this book. Quentin Blake was the perfect choice to illustrate the updated version of this sweet little book. Although it was written in 1961 the message and humor are still as viable today. The book challenges the premise that children can do anything "as long as you set your mind on something and try hard enough." It is something we say every day to children and yet when Billy's teacher says it to him his friends scoff at the idea. Billy, determined to prove them wrong, sets his mind to growing antlers. A preposterous story line, but one full of humor that makes you question the world and the things we just say without thinking.

[Mark Gee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really fun story, I mainly brought this book because I like Quentin Blake’s illustrations.
I wasn’t disappointed at all, great quirky story.
It’s not about or set in Christmas like I had initially thought either.

[Carly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was cute.

[Lucy Caruana · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars 🌟

[Judy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mostly interesting from the point of view of reading a vintage Yeoman / Blake collaboration. Worth a look, if you have a copy. Kids would probably enjoy the 'you can do anything you set your mind to' aspect. Quite empowering.

[Bettie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quentin Blake cover!