The Pain and the Great One facts for kids
1984 edition
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| Author | Judy Blume |
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| Illustrator | Irene Trivas, Tomie dePaola |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's book |
| Publisher | Prentice-Hall |
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Publication date
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1974 |
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The Pain and the Great One is a popular children's picture book written by Judy Blume. It was first published in 1974. This book is special because it is the only picture book Judy Blume wrote that was illustrated by the famous American artist Tomie dePaola. Irene Trivas also helped with the illustrations.
The story gives a funny look at the feelings young brothers and sisters have for each other. It shows how siblings can sometimes love each other and sometimes get annoyed.
Meet the Siblings
This book is all about the everyday rivalry between a sister and her younger brother. The sister is 8 years old and in third grade. Her brother is 6 years old and in first grade. They are exactly two years apart in age.
The sister has a special nickname for her brother: "The Pain." She calls him this because she thinks he is always bothering her. He seems to cause trouble and be a nuisance in her life.
The brother also has a nickname for his sister: "The Great One." He uses this name in a sarcastic way. He thinks his sister believes she is better than him at everything.
Two Sides of the Story
The book is divided into two main parts. Each part tells the story from a different sibling's point of view. First, you read about things from the sister's perspective. Then, you read about the same events from the brother's side. This helps readers understand how both children feel.
At the end of each part, both siblings say something similar. They both mention their dad saying, "The Pain/The Great One is just what they always wanted." Then, they both add, "YUCK! I think they love him/her better than me!" This shows their mixed feelings and how they sometimes feel jealous.
More Stories with The Pain and The Great One
Years after this picture book came out, Judy Blume wrote more books about these characters. Between 2007 and 2009, she published four additional books. These later books are not picture books, but they continue the adventures of "The Pain" and "The Great One."
