great book to read to a kid who needs to learn how to do something even if they are afraid. I thought it was a great look at learning to get back up after a fall. The ending has a very unexpected twist to it that I did not see coming (or even understand the first time I read it.)

So... he was an egg... overcame his fear of heights, and flew off AS a bird. Egg to bird! Maybe that's why he was drawn to climb a wall.

Basically Humpty overcomes his fear of heights only to be murdered by a bird.

You might be afraid of heights too if you once had a great fall! This delightful and poignant story of how Humpty learns to face his fears is a winner. Wonderful, detailed illustrations and happy surprise ending.

OK,I'm stumped. I just read "After the Fall," a follow up to Humpty Dumpty from the egg's point of view. Book jacket says "...this epilogue to the beloved classic ... will encourage even to most afraid to overcome their fears, learn to get back up--and reach new heights." Sounds great.

Here's a summary of the story: First, the king's men DO put him back together again. Then he's afraid of heights, including his bunk bed. Then he works and works to make a wonderful paper airplane. It lands on top of the wall and he overcomes his fear to climb up and reach it. Then he cracks, feathers appear around the cracks in his shell, and he appears to fly away on his new golden wings.

So...what on earth is the message? Seems to me that if you sprout golden wings and fly away, leaving your shell and your clothing behind, you did not "get back up." Sounds to me as if you died!

charming, inspiring and highly recommended for any age group.

yes yes YES! Everything a picture book should be. It has funny moments, simple/easy to follow along text, gorgeous pictures with intricate details, and a beautiful message at the end. Loved this one!

This is such a sweet picture book. Wow, who knew the Humpty Dumpty nursery rhyme could be transformed into such an inspirational story for kids?! Recommended for any kid who's afraid of "getting back up on the wall" (or the horse, or the bike) after a fall. :)

Wow. Dan Santat has done it again. This book is beautiful and funny and poignant. It seems weird to use those words to describe a book about Humpty Dumpty, but that's the only way I can describe it.

Great illustrations from Caldecott Medal winner Dan Santat. A cute re-telling of the famous nursery rhyme with a little twist at the end!