Amazon.com

Poems about picnics, pretending, and puppies make this book the book to introduce little ones to poetry about the world around them. Jack Prelutsky, one of today's most respected children's poets, has selected more than 200 short poems--old favorites, traditional rhymes, and humorous verses--that will delight young listeners. The poems cover a wide range of experiences in a young child's life, from everyday events to special days to the world of the imagination.

Marc Brown, author and illustrator of the popular Arthur series, uses colored-pencil illustrations and borders to unify the poems, helping to create a pleasing, lively collection to carry children from their preschool years into the early elementary grades. As Jim Trelease tells us in his introduction to the book, "Unlike the toys we buy our children, poems cannot break." (Ages 2 to 7) ... Read more

Reviews (4)

The kids' book that YOU will enjoy reading!
I bought this book because Jim Trelease recommends it. Jim's Read Aloud Handbook is the definitive work on how reading to children is the #1 factor in increasing intelligence. Read-Aloud Rhymes is fun, funny and I have never tired of reading its many poems over the past two years to my kids (4 year old boy, twin 2 year old girls). It is my favorite and theirs as well.

If your little ones are driving you nuts and you feel like you're stuck on an island (like they're starring in Lord of the Flies), this book could save your life! Seriously, it is the best book for children in print today. I spend tons of time and the library and this book is one you must take home to keep.

Toddler Favorite
I purchased this for my son over a year ago, he is 3 now & this is one of his favorite books. Its a family treasure & every child should have one in their collection.

Great book for kids AND PARENTS
The short, unique rhymes are so fun to read. They are charming and sweet for little ones and parents and so much nicer than those awful Mother Goose nursery rhymes. They're organized by subject matter, so there's a section on rain, going to bed, the garden, etc. The illustrations by Marc Brown alone are worth the price. It's a pleasure to read so many funny, uplifting rhymes...not plotless tradgedies like humpty, dumpty and Jack and Jill. I look forward to reading to my baby as much as he does.

Buy this book for New Parents!!
This is the most wonderful book for young children! I bought this for my daughter when she was about two, and we both had the most wonderful time reading it. She is now 13, and this is still one of her most treasured books. Who can resist such poems as "Higglety Pigglety, Pop! The dog has eaten the mop. The pig's in a hurry, and the cat's in a flurry, Higglety pigglety, Pop! Another favorite is the one about Noise, which I read faster and faster until ending with an urgent, "STOP, STOP!". We always buy this book to give as baby gifts and you should too! And remember, "A flea and a fly and a kangaroo, jumped for a prize in a pot of glue...." ... Read more

Book Description

Jan Brett's intricate illustrations against a beautiful papyrus background make a stunning picture book of a favorite story-this time featuring Noah's granddaughter. As the floodwaters rise, she helps take the animals onto the ark and get them settled down. But it's not easy when giraffes are sleeping next to pandas and lions are curled up with turkeys. Finally the gentle rocking of the ark lulls them all to sleep until the waters recede and Grandpa Noah, his family, and all the animals leave the ark. This simple telling, combined with extraordinary illustrations of every animal imaginable, makes On Noah's Ark perfect for young and old. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Oooops! She left out the main character!
Beautiful illustrations do not make up for the fact that there's not even a nod to the Creator of the story! Come on, "Grandpa Noah says that the rains are coming"!?!?!? Wasn't it God who said the rains are coming? (...)

Wish it were longer!
Written from the viewpoint of Noah's grandson, this is a charming story from onboard the ark. My just turned 2 year old loves it and I don't mind reading it over and over (and over and over). We have other Noah's Ark books but many require too much explaination or are too scary for this age group. I am planning to buy this for cousins and friends.

A beautiful book
Once again Jan Brett's illustrations are a treat for the eye. This is a simple telling of the ark story from another point of view. Noah wasn't the only one on the ark and children love to imagine what other people on the ark were like. This is a wonderful book to use to get a discussion going with young children and get them thinking about the ark and it's passengers.

A different story
This is a beautifully illustrated story about a little girl on a fantastic animal cruise. If you want a lovely book with gorgeous pictures of animals, you'll like this book. If you want to teach your child about the Noah of Genesis, look instead at the wonderful Noah's Ark by Peter Spier. That book also has lovely illustrations, but sticks much closer to the Biblical version of the story.

One of Jan Brett's best!
Beautiful illustrations and a creative storytelling make this version of the Noah's Ark story a must have! Jan Brett is one of my favorite author/illustrators and this book will not disappoint any of Brett's fans. This book is a joy for both parents and children to read. My 2 year old daughter loves it. ... Read more

Book Description

What simpler way could there be to express to children the beauty and the harmony in the world around them than through the lyrics of this song by George David Weiss and Bob Thiele, made famous by the great Louis Armstrong? And what better visual accompaniment than the bright colorful artwork by award-winning Ashley Bryan depicting children of many backgrounds (and Louis Armstrong himself) performing a puppet show that brings the lyrics to life. Here is a book of brightness, wonder, and hope to be shared by all. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

What a wonderful book!
This is a fantastic book! My six and three year old children are already on their second copy - we wore out the first! Both of my daughters love to read it - actually sing it - over, and over, and over. They're fascinated by the pictures as well.

Of course, once they learned to sing the song, it was so easy to introduce them to the music of Louis Armstrong. This book was the perfect bridge. Now my six year old asks me to play "Lewis" for her when we're in the car.

Ultimately soothing
I first saw this book being read/sung to the children in my preschooler's class. I purchased the book for my son and to my amazement,my 1 year old LOVED it as well. The illustrations are bright and captures my baby's attention, he'll sit and "read" the book for minutes! Now, whenever my kids are starting to "meltdown" all I have to do is start singing the song and they both immediately search out this book!

What a Wonderful World
The lyrics to the song, "What a Wonderful World" by David Weiss and Bob Thiele come to life as Ashley Bryan imagines a wonderful world and creates this image in the form of a puppet show. Through the puppet show and the bright colorful illustrations the young audience is captured and can easily relate. It is a great book for young children! It is a book of hope for children and the world!

Note to teachers: This book is great for teaching diversity. Use the book and set it to the music of Louis Armstrong. The children will love it and adults will be moved. Let your children create props for their own puppet show or let children illustrate the book and put together for a class book. Then use Louis Armstrong's music again with the children's class book.

Its colors and text burst with joy!
This book is a joyful, moving tribute to Louis Armstrong and our wonderful world. My kids loved it and it brought me to tears. The words explode with emotion in the colorful illustrations. It is almost as good as hearing Satchmo singing that song. And - like the song - when it's over, you think to yourself, "Isn't it great to be alive!" My only criticism: The book should come packaged with Armstrong's recording.

WONDERFUL!!!
This book is absolutely wonderful, after meeting the author himself I can say his truely colorful personality comes out in this book! I would read this one over and over to my son. ... Read more

Book Description

The little house first stood in the country, but gradually the city moved closer and closer. ... Read more

Reviews (33)

Charming story with a purpose
Although this award-winning children's picture book was written many years ago, it is amazingly relevant for today. The story follows the life of a little house, built long ago in the countryside and then slowly swallowed up by the spreading tide of urbanization, only to find itself surrounded by tall buildings, noise and hubbub, and condemned to destruction. The house is restored to happiness by being moved back out into the countryside, where it can once again ejoy the night sky and the songs of birds and laughter of children playing. Young children, age 2 to 6, will enjoy the story and pictures, even if they don't care about urbanization or anything else.

Favorite Childhood Bedtime Story
The Little House was my favorite bedtime story, so the book's illustrations bring back memories of a happy childhood. I remember my mom reading it to me endless numbers of times. Although I did not know who wrote the book, the vivid illustrations in the book and the author's text made me realize that this little house had just as much feeling as we humans do. Just watching the serene countryside where this house stood gradually transformed into a big city filled with noise and pollution causes this little house to feel just as disappointed with urban sprawl as we humans do and to yourn for a more simpler life in the countryside. This a most a heartwarming tale of survival. In a phoenixlike fashion, the author shows that although the house eventaully becomes delapidated and forgotten, the house is eventually rescued by a descendant of the building's original owner and returned to the more peaceful life in the countryside that this house once knew.

Childhood Classic
The Little House is an endearing story depicting the journey of a little house from a quiet, simpler time through the modern jungle and finally back "home" again.

This classic belongs in the personal library of every child. Children will love the pictures, especially the little house's almost "human-like" features that transform from "sad" to "happy". Parents will appreciate the interpretation of the "there is no place like home" lesson.

The Little House
The Little House is about a little house that is built with care and is lived in until a city grows around it. The little house always wanted to live in the city until it actually happens. It teaches that you should be careful about what you wish for. I think the age level is around 7-9 years. The book was ok it was kind of boring

One of the greatest children's book ever written.
As with many of the reviewers here, this was my favorite book as a child, and I consider it to be Virginia Lee Burton's quintessential work. While all her books are wonderful, none have the childlike simplicity and artistry of The Little House.

That this book won the Caldecott Medal is no surprise. The illustrations jump off the page. Each page is meticulously drawn with enough vibrant color and detail to peruse for several minutes. Each of the seasons in the country is vividly pictured. As the city encroaches upon the Little House, the frame changes subtly from page to page to show the slow transition from rural to urban life.

Both of my children (6 and 3 years of age) are captivated by the illustrations and the story. Reading this book aloud to them brings back fond memories of the countless hours I spent engrossed in it as a child. I cannot emphasize enough how wonderful it truly is. Even 60 years after it was written, it still has the power to tug at the heart. ... Read more

Book Description

Francisco, a young Mexican-American boy, helps his grandfather find work as a gardener, even though the old man cannot speak English and knows nothing about gardening. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

An Honest Story about Honesty and Hard Work
Let me begin by saying that I am a big fan of Eve Bunting and admire her for writing about people who otherwise receive little attention in stories. "A Day's Work" is worthy of that reputation. It is a story of day laborers from Mexico; moreover, it describes how the whole family pulls together to make ends meet (a theme that Francisco Jimenez beautifully explores in "The Circuit/Cajas de Carton). Though it's a simple story, there are several surprise twists. As with her other stories, Eve Bunting tells this one with her characteristic sensitivity without indulging in, you know, the mushy stuff. This book will enable children and adults alike to take a new look at honesty and, as the title says, a day's work.

Good Book!
This story describes an American lifestyle that most of us will not experience. It avoids criticism of that life and presents a situation in which honest people are trying to survive. The author provides a human face to the characters. Very nice.

A must-have for your multicultural collection
Beautifully illustrated, this heart-warming story is an excellent real-aloud for grades 2-5. Many themes in the book include honesty, hard-work is rewarded and family. I love the fact that no stereo-type Hispanic characters are in the book.

It is about a boy helping his grandfather.
I think a kid would like this book because it tells how a kid can help his parents do their jobs. I think a kid would not like this book because this book is not that exciting.

We need more books like this one for kids today (& adults!)
"A Day's Work" is wonderfully engaging and a beautifully illustrated work. It is so rare to find a children's book today which integrates moral truth so seamlessly into a believable and thought-provoking story. We will never be without this book on our bookshelf to read to each child as he comes to the age of reasoning! A MUST HAVE for any family who values teaching their children at an early age about honesty & accountability. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (2)

A delightful read!
The late Valerie Worth is well remembered in this volume of nature poems. They are short and sweet, with neat imagery. I used this book to help my daughter, a struggling reader, to read, by reading with her, and sometimes singing the poems as though they were lyrics.
Simple titles like "Pie" and "Toad" evoke a simple life...yet the poems stir the imagination, too: "The watering can rusts among friends." Mm. Natalie Babbit's line drawings complement the poems without fail.

A wonderful collection!
This book is a great collection of poems about nature. My children love these poems, and they are great to teach with. ... Read more

Book Description

A young boy and his father visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Remember.
Over a quarter of a century has passed since the U.S. involvement in Vietnam came to an end, yet the effects of that conflict are still etched throughout the fabric of our modern day society. But another generation has been born in the time since the fighting ended. Many have never heard of Vietnam let alone the fighting that went on there. How does one introduce a child to a subject that is still as electrified as the Vietnam War? Perhaps by reading THE WALL with them.

THE WALL is simply a story about a young man who takes his son to the Vietnam War Memorial to find the name of his dad. The young boy's grandfather died in the conflict and at the end of the book the reader knows the boy's head is full of questions. The story doesn't answer these questions, but allows children to verbalize these questions themselves: Why are there flags all around here? Why did that teacher say the Wall belongs to all of us? Why does that soldier not have any legs? The story can also be used as in introduction for not only the Vietnam War, but to also talking about war in general. The illustrations and the story are molded together perfectly into one beautiful harmony. Sometimes kids will be anxious during a story, but when reading this story most kids will remain completely still, taking in the simple, yet profound story. This is a great book to read to children not just during Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, or Independence Day, but at any time during the year.

A boy and his dad visit "The Wall" to find grandpa's name
For over a quarter of a century the key imperative in American Foreign Policy has been to avoid another Vietnam. Now we have a new generation of children, born to the sons and daughters of those who fought in Vietnam but never came home. How do we tell them the story of Vietnam so they understand how much it scarred the national psyche and how their is such a national resolve never to let it happen again in some way more substantial than showing them "Forrest Gump?" Eve Bunting comes up with one way in "The Wall," ably assisted by the watercolor illustrations of Ronald Himler. "The Wall" is the simply story of a little boy and his father who have come from far away to visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. to find the name of the boy's grandfather.

What makes "The Wall" so moving is that instead of answering questions it will get children to ask them. Like the little boy in the story, children reading this book will see man in combat fatigue in a wheelchair because he does not have any legs; an older couple hugging and crying; flags, teddy bears and letters laid against the wall. The little boy does not ask any questions about what he sees, but I have to believe that students reading this book certainly have questions that they want answered. Whether it is used for Memorial Day or Veterans Day, or any discussion in which children are thinking about war and its consequences, "The Wall" is a very thoughtful book that should be very helpful to teachers and students alike.

All teachers should use this book in their classroom!
As a college student studying to be an elementary school teacher, I recommend that every teacher use this book in their classroom around Memorial Day and Veterans Day. This book has a great message and the fact that it is written from the boy's perspective makes it easy for students to realate to the characters.

"The Wall" is a Patriotic Book
"The Wall" is a patriotic book. It was easy to read; that made me understand how the Vietnam War turned out in the end.

The boy and his father try to find the grandfather's name on the Vietnam Wall memorial when they pass many other names. When the father reads the names on the wall, the boy imagines each name as a real person, standing next to him and talking to him.

If you are interested in the Vietnam War and how people sacrificed their lives fore us, then "The Wall" would be a good book for you to read.

I gave this four stars out of five because I found the book to be very moving. If you like books about wars, then you'll like "The Wall."

I am a teacher
I am a sixth grade social studies teacher. Yes, this book is below the average sixth grade reading level. However, I read this along with other books, orally, to my classes at the beginning of the school year. It gives the students a sneak preview as to what their studies are going to be all about. It also encourages the idea that history is not so bad after all. It should encourage them to read about history and may even introduce the genre to some students. The book also provides realism to the plight of the Vietnam War. It is a good book experience for all who read and/or listen to it. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Magical and Cheerful Story
When I read, "A Midsummer Night's Dream", I thought it was a very happy story. The story takes place in Athens, Greece and the king is about to become engaged to a queen. The story is about love and many magical events. I think "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is an extremely happy and cheerful story and I recommend it to other people.

Stop Kidding Yourselves
Retelling Shakespeare's stories is a valid activity. (Shakespeare after all retold others' stories when he wrote his plays.) Telling kids that they're learning Shakespeare when their taught retellings of the stories in his plays, however, is a terrible practice and should be avoided at all costs.

Unexpected enchantment
I love the works of Shakespeare but I've always thought that children under the age of 11 or 12 wouldn't be able to grasp the complexity both of the stories and of the language. Well, thank goodness Lois Burdett has come to our rescue! It has been her labor of love to rewrite the stories in rhyming couplet. She is quite an accomplished poet and a delight to read.

A Midsummer Night's Dream is extremely funny. Throughout the book Ms Burdett has included pictures and statements relating to the story that were made by her students. Clearly she makes Shakespeare come alive. I was so impressed with her rendition of this story that I couldn't wait to try it out on my eight year old. He loved it! We have a new Shakespeare fan in our house. I am extremely grateful that these books are available. I plan to purchase them all. ... Read more

Book Description

From all
of the daddies,
tall or small,
mine is the best,
the very best...

Some animal daddies comfort their babies or hold them tight, or face every danger for them. But the narrator of this loving picture book knows his daddy does all of that -- and more -- for him.

In this sweet companion to the New York Times best-selling My Mother Is Mine, Marion Dane Bauer and Leslie Wu celebrate fathers. A Father's Day card is attached to the back of the book, but this is a book to share all year long.

the very best daddy of all.

Reviews (39)

Great for educators!
Sometimes for little ones, anger can be a very scary and confusing place. "When Sophie Gets Angry - Really, Really Angry..." does a wonderful job of showing how one little girl not only feels when she gets angry, but how she chooses to deal with her anger. The story begins with Sophie playing with her little sister. When Sophie's little sister grabes her stuffed gorilla out of her hands, Sophie immediately screams "No!" and reaches out for her mother to correct the "problem". However, her mother informs Sophie that she needs to learn to share and allows her little sister to keep the stuffed gorilla. This makes Sophie really, really angry. The author describes Sophie's anger as "a volcano ready to explode". She stomps, screams, and even kicks--she is so mad. Bright reds, oranges, and yellows are used to emphasize just how angry Sophie has become. Overcome by anger, Sophie runs out of her house and finds solitude in nearby woods. There, she is able to cry, think about what she has done, and manage to find peace. The colors of the book change the more and more Sophie manages to calm down. The bright and firey colors used previously turn into softer, more muted blues, whites and greens. Sophie eventually runs home, where is she is welcomed by loving hugs and sense of peace.

Many have criticized this story for downplaying the "tantrums" Sophie throws and for the fact she basically runs away from home to avoid her problems. Even though I am not a parent myself, I can see where this would be a concern. However, as an educator, I really thought this book did a good job showing young readers that anger is an emotion we all share and that this was how one little girl chose to deal with her anger. I agree that it is unacceptable to run away from home when you are angry, but I think one misses the point if that is all they notice about the book. Seeing Sophie welcomed back home with loving arms will give children much needed comfort in knowing no matter what happens (or how big a tantrum they may throw) they will be loved in the end. The wonderful use of color is another stong selling point to this book. Bold brush strokes and full color "childlike" illustrations will draw children to this story. I would recomend this book to anyone, but especailly those who work with small children.

When Sophie Gets Angry
My 2-year old daughter loves this beautifully illustrated book about a little girl coping with a temper tantrum. I think it helps her label and understand her own feelings when things don't go the way she wants them to. As for it teaching kids to "run away" when they are angry--that's not the way I read it. To me, it describes getting out and doing something physical (running, then climbing a tree), and then enjoying nature, as a way to cope with angry feelings. My daughter also seems to find it deeply satisfying when Sophie goes back inside to a warm home where people are happy to see her, and she is able to join in the family's activities again, with no hard feelings. I think it's important for preschoolers to understand that angry feelings can be coped with and survived without harming either individuals or relationships.

WV State College Student
I am a student at West Virginia State College currently taking a class called Children's Literature. Our instructor required us to read a Caldecott Honor book as part of our assignment and write our personal view of the book.

This book is about a little girl named Sophie who is playing with her favorite toy gorilla and her sister decides she wants to play with it and grabs it from her. This causes Sophie to be angry and she runs out and climbs her favorite tree. Sophie feels better and returns home and everything is all normal.

This would be a great children's book to read aloud in a classroom. You can discuss with the children what they would do when they get angry and what would make them feel better. I would highly recommend this book for K - 2 grade students.

Teaching mindfulness to kids
I am a parent and also a yoga teacher. I think this book very beautifully illustrates what anger may feel like, a volcano ready to explode! Sophie lets off steam by running... and crying... then she comes to her senses, seeing, hearing, feeling nature. "The wide world comforts her." "Sophie feels better now." She returns home to the warmth and familiar smells and sounds and sights of home. She is welcomed home. She is not her anger. This book really offers a way to open up dialogue about anger and other emotions. Kids can relate their feelings to colors, to things in nature. Mindfulness is about being aware of the present moment while you are in it. Coming to our senses brings us into the present moment. Mindfulness is a wonderful anger management tool, feeling the emotion in the body, focusing on the sensation rather than reacting from it. Teaching mindfulness allows for opportunities to respond rather than react. The thing to remember is that it is mindfulness PRACTICE!!! I think this book could help lessen tantrums, giving kids a sense of control over their anger. It is a chance to LEARN from anger. The illustrations are vibrant and engaging. My son is going on three, and he was definitely able to relate to Sophie. We just recently read this book together and I think it will serve us well! I highly recommend it!

Express your feelings
This book is really great to use when discussing how to deal with your feelings with your child or a group of children. I am a first grade teacher and we teach empathy lessons at our school and this book really relates to the children. They can relate to having these feelings of anger and not knowing what to do with them. Reading this book really helps them know what to do with these feelings without doing it because they are told to. ... Read more

Book Description

The Enormous Crocodile is incredibly hungry-and incredibly greedy. His favorite meal is a plump, juicy little child, and he intends to gobble up as many of them as he can! But when the other animals in the jungle join together to put an end to his nasty schemes, the Enormous Crocodile learns a lesson he won't soon forget. Dahl's wicked humor is as delightful as ever in this new, larger edition of a hilarious favorite.

Illustrated by Quentin Blake. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

fun book, but the ending falls short
I really enjoyed "The Enormous Crocodile." It is one heck of a tale. But the abrupt and rather too serious ending leaves me pondering the greatness that could have been.

The story follows the exploits of the tittle character as he sets off one morning to find something to eat. He has a hankering for children from the nearby village. He broadcasts his desire to the other creatures of the jungle as he passes them.

The only problem is that besides being greedy and ill-intentioned, the crocodile is also nasty to his fellow wild creatures. This comes back to haunt him.

The story is a masterpiece of dry humor. Its verbal pacing is darn near flawless. The illustrations are great. Several (especially of the Crocodile's disguises) made me laugh.

Outside of the ending, I highly recommend "The Enormous Crocodile."

Enormous Crocodile
The author is Roald Dahl. He wrote this book called The Enormous Crocodile. The Enormous Crocodile is about two crocodiles. One tries to eat the children but his plans never work. His friends help the children get away from the Enormous Crocodile. They are tired of the crocodile's secret plans and clever tricks. I think this book is really excellent.

Sheer pleasure for all ages!
I dare you to pick up this book in a book store, read the first page to your child and then tell him you're not going to buy it. You'll never get away with it. Roald Dahl excels at writing stories that grip the reader in the first paragraph and don't let go until the end. If you can't get your child to read, let Roald Dahl come to the rescue. Even if you have to read it yourself, your kid will want to read it afterwards. This is a great Roald Dahl starter.

Crocodile Review
The Enormous Crocodile is a fun story with animals of all sorts. The Enormous Crocodile plans to get children, but the plans fail because of the animals. It is like a fun mystery. And the story has so much suspense. There is an elephant, a Roly Poly bird, a monkey and a hippo named Humpy Rumpy.

A Funny Book with Silly Tricks
I just finished The Enormous Crocodile by Roald Dahl. The story is about an Enormous Crocodile who goes through a jungle to a city, so he can eat children. I thought it was funny because the EC did some pretty silly tricks like when he pretended to be a see-saw. What I liked best about it was that the EC's friends warned the children or the town before the EC could hurt them. I thought this was a nice thing to do. The Enormous Crocodle is a good book to read. I would especially recommend it as a family read. ... Read more

Book Description

You hear your door come crashing downóthose birthday monsters are in town! And they-re going to wreak havoc in the most extraordinarily rude ways. What fun! From Boynton on Board, the 2.6-million-copy-bestselling series of extra-big, extra-fat, and extra-fun board books, here is BIRTHDAY MONSTERS, with over 290,000 copies in print. Featuring Sandra Boynton-s lively rhyming text and inimitable illustrations, this story about a madcap crew of lovable party crashers will appeal to kids and adults alike. Main selection of the Children-s Book-of-the-Month Club.

... Read more

Reviews (9)

A great children's book from as early as age 1!
I bought this book for my neice's first birthday, and she loves it! The pictures are wonderful, and the text is written in Boynton's usual melodic style--my neice certainly seemed to respond to the sound of others reading the words to her. The story describes five birthday monsters arriving and taking over on "your" birthday; although the monsters themselves aren't scary, young children who can comprehend the story might become upset by certain scenes (eg, the monsters eat all "your" cake!)--but of course, there is a happy ending. An engaging, fun story for young children.

My Favorite Boynton Book!
My daughter loved these books when she was a baby, and so did I! Of all the Boynton books, this is the one I like the best. The story is adorable and the cadence is catchy! Every time I see a copy of this book, the story is fresh as the first time I read it.

Nothing special
If you like Boynton's books, you'll probably like this one too. My son is more of a fan of her "Opposites" or "But Not the Hippopotamus". It's OK, as far as children's books go, but Boynton has done better.

Fun Book
I bought this book for my son's first birthday and it is so fun to read! He is just starting to sit still for a story and this one seemed to hold his attention-probably because of the quick pace and excitement that the monsters demand! I tend to read the monster parts really fast and louder than the rest of the book. And I like the illustrations because we can count balloons and different color hats etc as we read the story.

Funny story as long as you explain to your child
My daughter thought this book was funny but at the end she was wanting me to ensure her that no monsters were going to come on her birthday and eat all her cake, and open her presents! But after explaining to her about these books being for fun and pretend she has really grown to love this book and telling people that there really are not any birthday monsters. ... Read more

Book Description

"The Pain" and "The Great One" are not their real names. But you may know their voices. When this girl, age eight, and this boy, age six, tell all about each other, they sound a lot alike. They are brother and sister and they're caught in a contest over whom Mom and Dad love most. You probably know who wins, too, in this funny, family picturebook. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Terrific BOOK like only Blume can do
My kids like this book. Told from two perspectives and revealing the secret fears of both children in a non-threatening, but interesting way, this book holds their interest. A DEFINITE MUST for your collection of children' books.

I CAN RELATE!
Wordsmith Judy Blume uses more verbal magic in this illustrated children's book about a little brother and a big sister. Another book that, at age 12, seemed "too kiddie" and beneath me.
I don't care if you're 60, 16, or 6 years-old! Even if you did not have the experience of growing up with siblings, or, in my case, I was the youngest, but had a smaller niece that acted as a baby sister.
Read so you know the title. Read so you know better than any Child Psychology book on the structure of Sibling Dynamics!

A Must Have Book for Every Family
My son (8 yrs old) read this to his sister (6 yrs old) while I was combing her hair. We all laughed so much, he had to read parts over. This is a school library book and I am ordering it now to keep on our library shelf. It will be the book I give to ever child I know.

My children are exactly at the age of the characters with reverse gender. They could readily identify with the situations and could laugh at very 'real' conversations. I am sure they recalled how many times they have each said, "You love him/her better than me." I know I could. I want them to read this book once a month so they can remember the joy in having each other.

words from THE Great One
I am actually purchasing this book as a gag gift for my baby brother. I believe we were nine and five when we first read this book and now, eons later, it has evolved into a family/cult classic around our homes. The book is fantastic and it most definitely captures some of the siller moments that go along with sibling rivalry.

Great baby shower gift--for the sibling of the new baby!
We have six children--ALL of them have identified with this book at some time or another. It truly gives both perspectives..."I think Mom and Dad like him/her best." It is cute, but elicits a compassionate understanding from both older and younger children. My nine year old thought it would be a great shower gift for her friend who is expecting a little brother! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Butterfly House
This book is about a girl who saves a caterpillar
from a hungry blue jay. The girl keeps the caterpilar until it is a butterfly. My favorite part is when they make the caterpillar's little house. I LOVE the illustrations.I'd recommend this book to people who like butterflies.

A very warm celebration.
I saw a copy of BUTTERFLY HOUSE and bought it right away because I was attracted to the love and warmth that the book radiates through its story and illustrations on one of my favorite subjects, the butterfly. Butterfly lovers can look for MALINDA MARTHA MEETS MARIPOSA too, different in that it features the Monarch rather than the Painted Lady and different again in that it offers the dimension of acting out the life-cycle as a play. Similar is the love for the butterfly that the children will experience in each book. One doesn't seem complete without the other. Together a child will build a life-time of love and knowledge on this subject.

A beautiful story of a girl her grandfather and butterflies.
This was a delightful book written by Eve Bunting highlighting her wonderful style of writing. This book caught my eye at first by the beautiful cover but then I was spell bound by the wonderful illustrations and the delightful story. I was also attracted to this book because of the butterflies. I am a teacher and my first grade class just raised painted lady butterflies, just like in the book. It was a wonderful book to share with my students, especially on the day we released our own butterflies. The book helped explain that it was okay to cry but to be happy at their new found freedom. I would recommend this book to anyone at any age. ... Read more

Book Description

"When Mama Bear's efforts to improve her family's manners are unsuccessful, she devises a Politeness Plan--a chart listing a chore as a penalty for each act of rudeness. Basic etiquette is presented in a practical way. Berenstain illustrations add humor and understanding."--School Library Journal. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Prince Charles wanna-be
This book was an excellent influence on my child's rude behavior. My son, (being a huge fan of this line of books) has gone from a barnyard animal to a Prince Charles wanna-be. He now thinks twice before belching in public, he asks to excuse himself from the kitchen table, the list goes on and on. Thank you Jan Berenstain!

The Berenstein Bears Forgot Their Manners
The Book the berenstein bears forget their manners is about brother, sister, and papa bear. They slowly forget about what they are doing. Everything goes wrong, brother and sister fighting. Papa Bear Yelling telling them to stop. Mama Bear is getting mad and starts a new manners plan. This books lesson is to always be grateful with you got, and be respectful. I think the age level on this book is the ages 4-7. I really like this book it teaches kids manners and what do, and what not to do.

"An Educating Book"
The story "The Berenstain Bears Forget Their Manners" by Stan and Jan Berenstain is a very educating book. There are two specific reasons for why it is educating. It teaches children a lesson and it helps parents. The first reason for why this story is an educating book is because it teaches children a lesson. It teaches them that if you don't follow the rules or do what's polite, there are consequences. In the story brother and sister bear learn to be polite after getting a certain punishment every time they said or did something rude and discourtious. The other reason is that the story helps parents. Parents can not only read this to their children to entertain them but can at the same time get ideas on how to teach their children about remembering their manners and being polite. They can take what they've read from the book and apply it to their own home life.In conclusion, this story is very educational. It should be read to all young children.

The Berenstain Bears Forget Their Manners
I have read a good many Berenstain Bears books and have always found them to be entertaining and filled with valuable lessons. In this story The Bear family who live "in the big tree house down a sunny dirt road deep in Bear Country" are having trouble with manners. Forgetting to say "please" and "thank-you", reaching across the supper table and name-calling are just a few of the bad habits that have been picked up. Therefore Mama Bear decides on a politeness plan: she makes a list of all the rude habits she wants stopped and beside each one is a specific chore to be performed if the habit is repeated. For example, if one interrupts that person has to dust the downstairs. I find this to be an effective way to teach children proper behavior instead of shouting at them or sending them to their room. I highly recommend this book, it is helpful, funny and filled with colorful, animated drawings.

Chores are NOT appropriate punishment for bad manners . . .
My 4-year-old son LOVED The Berenstain Bears' New Baby and it was a big help in preparing for the arrival of his baby sister. So when we were struggling with remembering manners, I bought this book, certain that it would help. However, I ended up disagreeing with the approach to correcting bad or forgotten manners and rude behavior. This book outlined specific chores as punishments for various offenses. As parents, we have learned that allowing children to help around the house with things like sweeping, taking out the garbage, and helping Mommy empty the dishwasher (the plastic stuff!) is very empowering and makes kids feel like they can contribute to the household and they enjoy being part of the "family team" (hopefully this will continue into their teens since we've started them as toddlers!). Also, I learned that I should probably read through any new book by myself at least once before sitting down to read it to my children (parents can learn too!). Just a thought. ... Read more

Book Description

Four times the magic makes four times the fun! Now four of Roald Dahl's most beloved, best-selling books are together in one box! Mr. Fox, Charlie and Willy Wonka, and even James and his peach are available in this beautifully packaged gift set. All of the books are charmingly illustrated by Quentin Blake. ... Read more

Book Description

Illus. in full color. The Bears' adventures take them in, out, around, and about. "A good job of combining words and pictures into a slapstick but cohesive story."--School Library Journal. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Great book!!!!!
I have this book and i like it alot!!! I think the bears are cute in it!! i love to read it over and over again!! Great Book!!!!!!!!!!!!=-}

A Must Have for begining readers
I am in my 20's now, but I still have my copy of "Bears in the Night" that was passed on to me from my cousin in the 1970's. That book holds so many great memories for me. My mom and I read it together many, many times and was it especially helpful in teaching sight words. It is funny too, I still laugh everytime I think of the bears sneaking up "Spook Hill"!

Great illustrations
In this story a group of 7 little bears creep out of bed and out of their house to go adventuring during the night. Their adventures take them all the way "Out the window. Down the tree. Over the wall. Under the bridge. Around the lake. Between the rocks. Up Spook Hill." On Spook Hill they meet with a creature that sends them all clamoring back to their safe bed; an owl.

The pictures are done mostly in shades of blue, in order to make it look like nighttime. I think they do a wonderful job of conveying the mood- the lantern gives off yellow light and adds a neat effect.

The story is told in a very, very simple way. It is told entirely in short, three word sentences, which fit the sneaky mood of the bears perfectly. The lack of elaboration draws the eye to the drawings to look for explanation there. This works amazingly well, and makes for a fun, concise book.

Loggie-log-log-log

My 3-year-old's favorite.
I've been reading this book (an old copy - the one my dad read to me) to my 3-year-old son lately, and I've noticed it has helped open up his vocabulary to a wide array of prepositional phrases.

The book focuses on these - "Down the tree. Over the wall. Under the bridge. Around the lake." etc. - with words and illustrations. My son had a decent grasp on the concept of prepositions (he understood them when he heard them) - but after a few readings of this book, they've begun showing up in his speech.

The book is a fun one. Repeat readings, and my son still laughs at the ending.

A great start
This is the book that taught me how to read, plain and simple. Before I picked it up, I couldn't read. When I was through with it, I could. Seems like magic now. ... Read more

Reviews (60)

Fantastic Mr. Fox.
Mr. Fox is to clever for 3 farmers called Boggis, Bunce, and Bean. These are nasty farmers because they like to kill and they're evil.Mr Fox and his family live in a hole, under a huge tree on top of a hill.
Every night Mr. Fox goes to 1 of the 3 farms to steal something to eat.But doing this caused alot of problems.The 3 farmers wanted to strangle the poor fox to death!What do you think will happen?
I felt bad and good. I feel bad because its a shame that Mr. Fox has to steal food in order to keep himself and his family alive.I felt good because atleast his risking his live, and that shows that he really cares for his family.
I think that the 3 farmers don't have to kill the fox to keep their food safe.I also think that there are other ways for the fox get food.Like hunting for food.I loved this book so much that i couldn't put it down.I couldn't put it down because it was written by my favorite aouther ROALD DAHL.
This book was also funny because it said that Bean never took baths so he had all sorts of junk in his ear,like fly's, gum, and dirt.
I recommend this book to who ever likes funny stories, and to who ever likes ROALD DAHL books.

- Giovani Ruiz.

Fantastic Mr. Fox
I recommend this book because it's funny. I liked the drawings by Roald Dahl because they are silly. Boggis, Bunce and Bean are three mean farmers trying to kill Mr. Fox because he keeps on taking their food. Mr. Fox out-smarts them by making them think he is one place when he is another. I especially liked when Mr. Fox and his friends had a feast because no one can hurt them, and I can't believe that the farmers are still waiting for Mr. Fox to come out. (They are probably skeletons and bones by now!) For anybody who didn't read this book, I think you should read it.

strangest book ever
Have you ever seen a fox family so brave to survive from evil farmers?
Mr.Fox and his family have to survive with out coming out of their hole because the farmers will shoot them. Boggis, Bunce, and Bean are nasty farmers after Mr.Fox and the family. They have to face changes when they are living underground. The farmers never stop digging until a certain point. The Fox family used to steal animals from the farms so that is why the farmers are after them.
I would give this book three stars. The theme of the story is never to steal from some one.

FANTASTIC
The fantasy written by Ronald Dahl titled Fantastic Mr. Fox will keep you in stitches. This story takes place on a farm where three farmers lived. One was fat, one was short, and one was lean. Their names where Boggis, Bunce and Beans. The most important character of them all is the fantastic Mr. Fox. Mr. Fox steals from the farmers. He steals chickens, turkeys and cider from the farmers. As a result of his stealing, the farmers want to catch and kill him. But will it work? Check the book out and see.
I recommend this story to kids of all ages. This book is a must read book. It is a humorous book to read. The fox is so sly he steals from the farmers without getting caught sometimes. One time he pushed the limit too far. As a result they went hunting for him. The book is a good book for you if you like to get in trouble. To find out more take an easy trip down to library and check it out.
Ronald Dahl has written more than 8 exquisite books. He is such such a good author himself. This is a book which stand above the clouds. Check it out at your local library and have a ball reading this book.

Fantastic Mr.Fox
In Fantastic Mr. Fox three rich farmers were trying to shoot a fox. One farmer is fat and has chickens and eats three a day. One farmer is very short. On his farm he has duck and geese, but he eats doughnuts stuffed with goose liver. The last farmer is tall and thin. He has turkeys and a big apple orchard. All he would eat was apple cider. The fox had been stealing their chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys. This is a story about three farmers trying to get a fox.
I really like this book. It has a lot of detail. It is funny and written well. Roald Dahl is a great author. ... Read more

Book Description

Millions of children have been lulled to sleep by this classic bedtime tale. Now paired with a cuddly plush bunny, it is the perfect way to say "goodnight."

Amazon.com

Anyone who has ever read James and the Giant Peach or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory knows that Roald Dahl is a man capable of working magic on young people. The wonderfully weird worlds he evokes are so perfectly in tune with children's imaginations that--PRESTO!--he has completely enchanted kids (and adults, we admit) around the world.

This splendidly illustrated treasury--which we discovered with unfettered glee--showcases excerpts from the above books, along with short stories, rhymes, memoirs, unpublished poetry, and personal letters. A host of Dahl's best-loved characters are here, from the Enormous Crocodile to Willie Wonka. The whole shebang is fabulously illustrated by Quentin Blake, Ralph Steadman, and a myriad of other fine artists. Young Roald Dahl fans will devour this book eagerly, and those who have never met Charlie Bucket, Matilda, or the Vermicious Knids will want to get their hands on everything he's ever written. (All ages) ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Parents! Don't fight with your children for this book!
For those who have not yet grow up with Roald Dahl books as bedtime stories, the Treasury is good news indeed. For those who grew up with Roald Dahl books but lost them, the Treasury is fabulous news!! For the first time, Roald Dahl's fans can enjoy the adventures of their favorite hero and heroines in one whole volume. The wondrous chocolate factory, Matilda's extraordinary power, and many more charismatic characters in Roald Dahl's mystical kingdom. (Yes, even the wicked witches and awful giants have their places) The poems are a definitely a delightful read, and letters give the readers an insight to Roald Dahl's brilliant and imaginative mind. A pen under Roald Dahl's fingers becomes a magic wand that creates so many colorful dreams for both the young and old. The delicate illustrations by Quentin Blake and other outstanding illustrators add delicious flavor to the already luscious stories. The only small drawback is that the treasury is a collection of excerpts from various stories, but at the same time, it may also become a merit. I don't have to flip through a whole book for my favorite passages in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory!!!

A window into an amazing world
When I first read parts of this treasury, I was only in fourth grade. It swallowed me up, and I couldn't stop reading it. I would read it out loud to my parents, and before they knew it, they became wrapped into it too. Roald Dahl thinks up wonderful settings to go with his books, and everything that happens seems almost perfect. He combines an interesting plot, with humor and action, to create the perfect book. Dahl obviously has fun writing his books, as his fans have fun reading them. If you decide to read this treasury, you will find yourself transported to a world of unknown witches, greedy foxes, giants houses, peaches, and more amazing places that you would never think up. I respect Dahl for his wonderful imagination and terrific writing abilities. Overall, I really enjoyed this treasury.

Wonderful assortment of Dahl's childrens work
This is a beautiful book full of colorful illustrations, which is always a major plus, most of which are by Quentin Blake. This has some of Roald Dahl's poetry (such as his hilarious fairy tale retellings), short stories, excerpts from his children's novels, recipes, letters from fans, and other nice little tidbits, like a sheet Dahl filled out about his birthday, favorite color, food, etc. I think this book is well worth the money, because I got this a few years ago and haven't grown out of it since!

A superb, fantastic, and wonderful book
This book, like all other books of Rohld Dahl, is detailed, humorous, and just plain good. I spent 9 hours just sitting in a chair, reading this book, defanatly another fanatic book of Rolhd Dahl. I loved it. WOW!

What I liked and didn't like about the Dahl Treasury
I am nine and a half years old. I liked the variety of stories and poems, but I was frustrated at first because I thought I would be reading entire stories. Instead, I found that the Treasury included only chapters of some stories. Short stories, like the Enormous Crocodile, were entirely included.

This book left me searching for the complete works of Roald Dahl. ... Read more