A Hole is to Dig

A first book of definitions

By Ruth Krauss

Pictures by Maurice Sendak

Copyright 1952 - this edition 1989

This book has no plot, nor does it rhyme.  The illustrations are simple black and white line drawings.  While it was written by Ruth Krauss (who also wrote The Carrot Seed), young children were consulted for the actual definitions.  Still, this little picture book is quite profound.

What is a floor?

                “A floor is so you don’t fall in the hole your house is in.”

What is mud?

                “Mud is to jump in and slide in and yell doodleedoodledoo.”

The thought processes of a child – the innocence and sincerity – call to mind some basic truths.  Truths that all children know instinctively yet many adults have forgotten.

What is a brother?

                “A brother is to help you.”

This book is a reminder to once in a while, take a look at the world from a child’s point of view.  What is the true purpose of the things in our world and the people in our lives?  

What is a book?

                "A book is to look at."