The Missing Piece

My grandaughter is in ninth grade and they are using this book for a project. She had the book when she was ten years old and loved it and also had it signed by the author and didn;t want to cut it up. It helped her to get a A in English!

Great delivery time. The packaging was sufficient to keep the book from being damaged. I am a mental health therapist and will use the book many times with clients. It is a great companion book to The Missing Piece.

I owned and opperated a preschool for a number of years. This book was one of their favorite, and I must have read it over 500 times, when the meaning hit me. very powerful life learning lessons, on every page. I then purchased a couple dozen and gave them out to all my troubled friends young and old. What page are you on?

I read this book to my 6 year old son, and he LOVES it! He loves reading it over and over again himself! He now wants the sequel, "The Missing Piece Meets The Big O"

My son also gives it 5 stars!

This book was recommended to me by my mother. After reading the copy she gave me, I bought three additional copies to be able to give to friends. This book is a GREAT quick read and has a very deep meaning! Worth every penny and then some!

I love this book to give as a graduation or coming of age gift. I especially love to to give this book to girls. The message of finding out who you are and not needing someone to make you complete shines through in Shel Silverstein style.

This is a refreshing book that instills in young children that marriage is a horrible constraint on being human. Hopefully some children will use the moral taught in this book to shun marriage and horrible religious constraints.

it's not the whole story. i had another copy of this book that had a whole second half of the story where the missing piece becomes whole by changing himself into an O. i don't know why they sell the story in halves now, it loses all its poignancy. LAME

So, I definitely enjoyed this one more than The Missing Piece because it goes back to the point I mentioned in my other review in that there is someone out there for everyone. Going through life alone is not a concept that I believe in and not one that makes me comfortable.

God did not create us to live alone, every one of us is a member of a community, a part of a family, a part of a "couple". In Arabic we have a saying that goes "مش مقطوعين من شجرة" which means we are not torn or removed from a tree, but are a part of it and every part of the tree is needed in order for it to be a 'tree' - to be complete. The tree is the metaphor here for "family" or "community", and so with this book, the missing piece that was abandoned in the previous book finds solace in another circle that is already complete - the Big O.

Except the already complete circle does not leave the missing piece, but instead joins it and they have adventures of their own. Proving that you can still have a good time and experience things even if you are complete and whole.

I still think the book is a bit too simplistic given the message portrayed, and although I liked the metaphor used in the form of shapes, I don't think it's the fantastic book that everyone seems to think it is.

This book is kind of my anthem. It's a seemingly simplistic story about a "missing piece" that's looking for another shape with a piece missing out of it that it can fit into and become complete. Obviously this is an allegory for relationships; the poor piece looks everywhere for a place it fits, and it both experiences and witnesses others experiencing so many different kinds of "fits" where the two partners are able to roll together.

The piece even finds one place it fits, but then the piece grows and no longer fits the hole it used to. Such a great metaphor for a relationship that works at first but changes when the two grow apart.

While searching, it even sees pieces that find other ways of latching onto each other despite how they're "built," which I kinda thought might be Shel's nod to gay relationships (where of course people always argue that men and women are made to "fit together" so that's the only right way, but there are plenty of couples who believe otherwise and demonstrate it!).

But eventually, of course, the piece meets "the Big O." And it's not missing any pieces and is complete all by itself. The piece has to learn to become a complete thing--something that can roll on its own--by slowly trying to roll so its corners round out. The last page shows the smaller "piece"--having become a little O--catching up to the Big O and rolling beside it. They're not stuck to each other or completing each other; they're just enjoying life as two separate but complete entities.

How cool is that!!!

I guess I'm in the minority here in that although I appreciate the execution and metaphor used in the shape of a circle, I wasn't a huge fan of the overall book or message.

The circle goes through a full journey trying to find that one piece that completes it and makes it whole, only to decide it was better off without it - and that makes me feel like the book is encouraging being alone. It is discounting the entire concept of "love". Don't get me wrong, I am not being a hopeless romantic here, because "love" does not need to be a person. It can be absolutely anything that you are passionate about, that you feel completes you and makes you whole. It could be a hobby, a craft, your partner, your child, your career...whatever. But to live your life with the assumption that finding that "missing piece" is going to stop you from enjoying yourself and from having a good time does not sit well with me.

Maybe it is because I am happily married and have a family of my own that I am reading into it this way. However, it gave me the connotation that once you do find that one thing that completes you, that you become tied down and you stop experiencing any good things in life. That is not necessarily true, and therefore I do not like the idea that this book addressed to children is relaying this message to them.

Love this book, it has a good message saying that you may think something is missing on you, but it doesn't, you are perfect the way you are, and you may find things to fulfill this supposed missing thing, but maybe if you do you will miss who you truly are, and the good things around you... so is a very wise book to show that you are great the way you are!

I read this book for the first time when I was 23 and it made the ideal of a healthy relationship more clear to me than anything I'd ever heard or read before. 20+ years later, I just bought two copies for friends going through relationship challenges and I found it just as resonant as ever, if not more so, with the hindsight of all those years making even clearer Silverstein's genius.

this is one of the most powerful books i have ever experienced! i stumbled across it as my illusions of life with my "first true love" were melting away in the light of day, and i wept with its beauty. my heart still aches at times when i remember it 8 years later, but thoughts of the sequel (oh the sequel! though it took me years to discover it, and i believe the timing was perfect, i cannot imagine one without the other. for they are both incredible books in their own right, yet they complete one another in a way that is crucial for me) always turn that ache into joy.
an absolute must-have for every person on the planet!
forget the volumes of "self-help" books, relationship quizes, and weekly meetings with couples counselors ~ this book spells out truth for you in black and white (literally)

I bought this book along with "The Missing Piece" almost 10 years ago, when I was in college. My friend introduced me to those books, and I had to get my own copies. In fact, a good number of people among my circle of friends got their own copies as well.
I think those two books are the only "children's books" I have in my possession, but they are among the most touching and most memorable of all the books I own and read. And even though they're labeled as children's books (and they sure look that way too), I feel they're a better fit (haha, no pun intended) for grown-ups.
If you plan on getting this book (as you well should), then definitely get "The Missing Piece" as well. I don't think the story and the message of The Missing Piece fable is complete with just one book. You gotta get both books to fully appreciate it.
Highest utmost recommendations. God, I love this book.

I bought this book along with "The Missing Piece Meets The Big O" almost 10 years ago, when I was in college. My friend introduced me to those books, and I had to get my own copies. In fact, a good number of people among my circle of friends got their own copies as well.
I think those two books are the only "children's books" I have in my possession, but they are among the most touching and most memorable of all the books I own and read. And even though they're labeled as children's books (and they sure look that way too), I feel they're a better fit (haha, no pun intended) for grown-ups.
If you plan on getting this book (as you well should), then definitely get "The Missing Piece Meets The Big O" as well. I don't think the story and the message of The Missing Piece fable is complete with just one book. You gotta get both books to fully appreciate it.
Highest utmost recommendations. God, I love this book.

This classic book was really written for children, but it has a powerful message for people of all ages!

The drawings are simple but effective, and the story is one that we all can relate to. The Missing Piece starts out alone and is looking for someone or something to complete it. By the end of the story, The Missing Piece realizes he doesn't need anyone to complete him. He is already complete.

This is a very quick read that can help build the confidence of a young child, and can help adults regain the confidence they may have lost somewhere along the way!

I'm a student from South America....who received the book
as a gift and inspiration for the better understanding of the
purpose of real love and sharing through life. I even discovered during a radio station interview ,through which
I had the oportunity to transmit some of my experiences;
that many people like the brief,didactic, concise and magnific idea Mr. Silverstein wanted to share.The world
needs it.The whole world should have the oportunity to
read it. Thanks for the spirit of transformation and beauty
Mr. Silverstein ! EVERY MISSING PEACE SHOULD MEET THE BIG "O"

Three days after ending a relationship where I was constantly trying to be someone or something else in order to please my partner, I took a vacation that changed my life. On the first night of that vacation, while I was out with friends and family and the last thing I was looking for was another boyfriend, I met the most amazing person to enter my life so far. The next day, I found this book and decided to live my life like the big O. The man and I keep the book on our coffee table, and when we aren't rolling through the streets of the city, side by side, we go home to that wonderful story. Shel Silverstein has amazing insight. Every human should read this book.

this book really says nothing new (for how can the key to happiness ever be "new"?) but it expresses its truth in such a lovely and simple way that its brilliance just might leave you feeling blinded for a moment & never let you go back to seeing things the same way as before.
this is by far one of my favorite gifts to give ~ i consider it a must have for everyone: child, child at heart, or childless. and the sooner one begins to absorb such stories of strength the more likely they are to let their own little light shine!

Oh Shel Silverstein i love this book. Reading this book would probably just take 5 minutes of your time. I guess many people can relate himself to this story and I guarantee that a lot of them would be hit right there in the bulls eye of their hearts. Searching for your missing piece is tough. You keep on rolling then on by but sometimes finding it doesn't make us complete nor happy. The quest is infinite, but when you ignore the things that completes you and makes you happy each day, you keep on missing a piece each day. This book has its niche to those people who can appreciate very stylistic combination of a written and visually arresting piece. In my own artistic judgment the illustration is wonderfully executed because it matches the simplicity of the story. Not much complication in terms of comprehending both the visual and the written. Many peolpe in the world I'll bet would embrace the book because of the beautiful lesson it brings. Allow yourself to be the next target for it will surely hit you. Bulls eye!

Whether simply a children's book or an adult self-help book, this one is a gem! Adorable simplistic line drawings that make you wonder how an artist is able to create such an expressive characters out of basic circle shapes. Matched with a story that can be taken lightly or taken to heart.
Really, this is the journey of a character becoming a "whole" person...independantly being able to "roll" by itself. It also hints that to be happy in a relationship you must be your own independantly happy person...you can't rely on others to complete your deficiencies.
Anyone who is a "relationship leapfrog" needs to read this book. It may even make you cry-and probably will make you laugh-at the similarities with your own experiences. It is also appropriate for children...it is never to early to introduce someone to lifelong happiness, independance, and stability.
Rolling along...

Shel's this story about in-search-of-relationship is entertaining and enlightening.
For a while, I had tried hard to be a Big O. It is an appealing notion, isn't it? When you are complete by your own and don't look for suppliment from your relationship, you are contented - by definition true of being completeness - and will not be disappointed by the unfulfilled expectation on the better half.
If you can get the moral of the story, you can even get rid of the cruse of the myth of romantic love - there is an designated person in the world who perfectly tailored (by God?) for you. Thus, you can escape from all those illusion of falling IN love and suffering of falling OUT of love.
I had had peace of mind for quite a while. But then, I felt stunted, not only because it was difficult to find another Big O (we all are missing pieces in nature, let's confess it), but also because I could no longer benefit from the relationship.
Then, one day, I get another insight (owing to Grace?): the fact that 2 missing pieces will not perfectly match with each other is a given issue for all of us; it is through our efforts to work on it and through the process that we can make ourselves bigger and more complete.
Given saying all these, I still appreciate very much for Shel's inspiration and highly recommend you to read the story.

I was given this book as a 23th Birthday present by a man who is more than just a friend. He is the most gentle,kind and loving person I have ever met.We were having a great time together. Even though it was too short , it was so sweet. I like this book not only does it entertain but it educate us too to see how things are.This book means a lot to me as a reminder of the time we had. I am sure that I will never forget the meaning of the book as well as the person who gave me this book.

Shel Silverstein can say more with a few words and a few lines than someone with all of the vocabulary and artistic mediums of the universe. This simple book carries a beautiful message about the search for fullfillment. Don't let the label of "children's book" turn you away... The Missing Piece and it's sequel The Missing Piece Meets The Big O are brilliant books dealing with this journey we call life. Enchanting and moving.

I absolutely love this book. It has such a great message, and I agree with a lot of the other reviewers that the message is wonderful for both kids and adults.

The illustrations are wonderfully simple, and I really like how there are few words per page. This book makes for a great read aloud book for pre-schoolers. I read this book recently in front of my class of 4 and 5-year-olds and they clapped at the triumphant ending of the book...they were so happy for the missing piece!

Shel Silverstein's representation of human relationships and the many "holes" that people often have is very astute. I think the subtleties of the different personalities might be over the head of children, but most adults will see just how spot on he is.

I really really can't celebrate this book enough.

Not only are the flow and details of this book amazing, but also the spirit and the hope that the story brings, my mother found this book in a box of things for hurricane katrina victims. I begged her to let me have it, because it had writing in the back of it. It apparently had been a wedding present for someone and now they were sending it to hurricane volunteers(how kind). This is an amazing story and I will cherish it for the rest of my life.

A fantastic read! It's just amazing how the author had managed to refine the lessons about life into the story of 'the Missing Piece', in such a simple yet clarified way. This book always reminds me of the proverb "a picture speaks a thousand words". If I have to explain to someone about life, I would always prefer this book over to such other title as 'Chicken Soup for the ...', etc ;)

Once, when I was a very young boy, I had the privilege of experiencing Shel Silverstein reading this guidebook to personhood at the Chicago Public Library. At the time, I appreciated it as a story about a Pac-Man figure, (Which was my primary focus at the time), who couldn't find "a missing piece." As I have grown now, in age, intellect, character, loss, and all other forms of life experience, I understand so much more what he was really trying to say to us. He was speaking, in very clear terms about all that is good and beautiful about realizing the worth of one's self, in a simple manner that we will understand well into senescence as well as we understood it in our youth. In summation...purchase this book, share it with those that you love, and most importantly, understand it for yourself. Peace be with you.

Highly reminiscent of Harold and the Purple Crayon, it's a simplistic tale that will be enjoyed by children, and a life-lesson enjoyed by adults. While I don't necessarily agree with all 'It' went through being applicable to life, it's still a sweet story. Looking forward to the sequel!

I first read this book in my adult roles class in high school and have given it to so many others throughout my twenties. I love the illustrations and how there is basically just a few lines on each page. This has got to be one of my favorite books of all time.

My Grandson and I read this book at the Standford University Book Store. We thought it was a very insightful book on human relationships and self esteem. What a delight when a 56 year old and a 6 year old can share and benefit from the same message! We recommend it for people of all ages

This book helped me though some tough times when I was trying to figure out who I was and where I fit into the world. It suxs when you just feel uncomfortable in your own skin. Thank you Shel Silverstein for a great book that helps when you are Lift...Pull..Flopping in life.

For me, this book is about being whole in yourself. The search for the missing piece is ultimately successful, but not necessarily because the piece fits. I really can't seem to find the words to say what I want to, so I'll just say "Read the book."

as English is not my language...I claim that I've read

variety of books/articles in more than one language... out of it

I find this book is the most amazing one as the easiest one in

its shape/tools/wording but one of the deepest books in its

ideas and thoughts....

I'm planning to make it public in my country and I wish to find all support .... it is really a must read book for those

who seek to understand themselves and people around them....

targeting great happy and controllable social/profession life

This book is amazing.

But be warned: it is a thin sugary layer over a base of existential angst. It will mess you up even as your young kids are asking you to read it again.

See also: 'The Giving Tree.'

Shel Silverstein, by writing books for kids, has shed a new and beautiful light over some of the most typical adult problems. In "The Missing Piece Meets the Big O" he goes into the basics of a relationship. Simply put, you can't love others until you love and accept yourself.

Shel Silverstein has done it again! Every book I have read of his has intrigued me. This is a great story about a lonely circle that is missing a piece. He is sad because of this and searches for his piece. He searches high and low. He does not realize that he is happy without his piece....You should find out why by reading The Missing Piece. It demonstrates well that u can be happy without having everything you want. You just need to find it in yourself.

OK, there may be some stiff competetion in terms of "the best book ever written" -but this is one of my favorite books ever written. For some reason it's lesser known than many of the other Shel Silverstein poem books (may adults have never heard of it), but IMHO this one is a MUST READ. Although I like some of the poem books, quite honestly, they aren't my favorite. If you judge this book by them, then you may miss this wonderful story. I don't think that I've read this and haven't been able to get a smile out of any kid or any adult.

This was a gift to me after a divorce. The content is simple yet profound and I love to share it with my children in hopes that they too will know that relationships are at their healthiest when people are whole and complete, rather than half of a whole like a friendship necklace (to the chagrin of tweeners everywhere!) ;) I now share this with others who are going through relationship troubles or struggle with their self-worth.

Yes, it is a simple tale, and yet, it is one we often forget when we become adults. Its a fun story for kids and an important lesson for adults. I was given this book as a gift years ago, and re-read whenever I feel I am be wandering off life's path.

I would just like to point out that Shel Silverstein may be known as a wonderful and famous children's book author, but these books have been extremely helpful to me throughout college and beyond also. I honestly think it would do everyone good to read his books - short, simple, and to the point. There is more to these stories than the amusing drawings - a deeper meaning that everyone could stand to read; and they are on a level at which anyone literate could read the stories and understand the message. Wonderful.

The Missing Piece is a great book for all ages. I remember my mother reading this book to me when I was a little girl. At that time, I knew that there was something really special about it. As an adult, I can really appreciate the moral of the story. The book teaches to love and accept yourself just the way that you are. It's a great lesson to be taught to people of all ages, and especially children. I would recomend this book for family reading and enjoyment.

Both my 5 year old and my three year old love this book. It relates to all three of us at levels we all can understand. I always enjoyed reading this story, but it was not until I had children and began reading to them, did I realize the signaifcance and poinancy of what was realy going on. Not to look for affirmation or completion, but you are ok just as you are. I fell in love with this book all over again.

I recently got a copy of the Giving Tree to read to my kids. Picked up this one as well, since I read it as a child. It really is a great story and an important message that I feel will help them later in life. The drawings are simple, so doing "drawing" related activities about this message is also really easy. In some ways, this is a better book than Giving Tree.

I absolutely love Shel Silverstein and his books, so I had to order this one for my mommy's birthday! :D it came super fast and didn't cost me too much money. It was even cheaper on here than at any other store! :D i love shopping with the store!

A person who was one of the most influential in my life gave this to me as a gift. After reading the book, the gesture impacted me that much more. I buy this for anyone that means something to me. This type of book should be shared by all. Silverstein is a master who I still feel isn't talked about enough.

Don't forget 'The Missing Piece'!

Yes, the artwork is simple, but that's missing the point. The Missing Piece means even more to me as a college student then it did as a child. EVERYONE should read this book (along with its sequel The Missing Piece Meets the Big O)every 5 years. Together they are a testament to individualism, and the idea that life is in the journey, not the destination.

In comparison to older versions of the book, the latest publishing of the book is missing half a phrase. When the Big O gets introduced, the left side of the page should say, "Then, one day..." while the right side say something like, "another came along who looked different." The publishing I have found at book stores is missing the "Then one day..."

Of all Of Shel Silverstein's works, Missing Peice Meets the Big O, is , by far, the book that must be a part of every person's library. And before serious relationships alter your life. It sums up the entire concept.

I really enjoyed this book. A fellow co-worker was passing it around because he had received it as a gift and I really connected with it. The message is simple and the book isn't too preachy with it.

Too much Shel is NOT a good thing! I felt my IQ level drop as I read this book, I wasn’t amused by his style and I’m sorry I didn’t read up on him more before I purchased several of his books. BE SURE you do your research because how he expresses himself is simply a matter of opinion, you just might not like it!

The Shel Silverstein fan in me cringes as I write this review. What is this drivel? Where's the humor, the cuteness, the life lessons hidden in amazingness? This book is basically saying one has no need for friends. That's a horrible message to send to anyone, kid or adult. Self dependence? What a load of *rubbish*! You're not going to get anywhere in this world "rolling along" by yourself.
Clearly, judging by the other reviews, it appears to be a favorite, but I just really hated the message I got from this book.

another classic story by Shel Silverstein, alongside The Giving Tree. Shel is an author I know I want to pass on to my kids, alongside other authors like Roald Dahl. when this came on sale I knew I wanted it.