Clarence Goes Out West and Meets a Purple Horse

Last updated Thursday, July 25, 2002

Author: Jean Ekman Adams
Illustrator: Jean Ekman Adams
Date of Publication: 2000
ISBN: 0873587537
Grade Level: 2nd Grade
Date(s) Used: Sep. 2002

Synopsis: Clarence the Pig hops on a bus and takes a trip to get away from the city. Along the way, he meets Smokey, an aging horse, and the two share good times together. When it's time for Clarence to return to the city, he learns that leaving Smokey may mean never seeing him again. Clarence makes a choice that changes both their lives.

Craft ideas:

• Make a travel postcard from one of Clarence and Smokey's adventures. Write a letter home on the back.
• What do Clarence and Smokey do next? Draw and write their next adventure.
• What other colors and decorations could Smokey have? Trace the shape of Smokey the horse, and decorate him.