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Young doodlers and dreamers of the world, take heart--the famous Dr.Seuss, creator of Whos and Sneetches, was a doodler and dreamer, too.Kathleen Krull's engaging picture-book biography of Ted Geisel, the realDr. Seuss, takes us from his early childhood on FairfieldStreet in Springfield, Massachusetts, to the time when he's 22 years oldin Greenwich Village and just starting to think he might make a go of it as a person who draws flying cows. Krull tells a lively story,carefully including details that help us understand how Seuss becameSeuss, from playground injustice (Geisel was a German American and WorldWar I loomed large) to his love for Krazy Kat comics.

Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher, who also illustrated Seuss's My Many ColoredDays, cast Seuss's childhood in a nostalgic light with lovely,old-fashioned paintings. A four-page section in the back picks up Seuss's story again,taking us to 1937 when he launches his children's book career with And to Think That I Saw Iton Mulberry Street and all the way to his death in 1991. Acomplete list of Seuss's books and recommendations for further research closes this fascinating look at one of America's most belovedcreators of children's books. (Ages 8 and older) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Good reading skills or parental assistance required
It's hard to know where to place this biography of Ted Geisel: Boy On Fairfield Street reads with the action and drama of fiction, yet is a bona-fide account of how Geisel grew up to become Dr. Seuss. Paintings by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher accompany a lively discussion of how Geisel got his ideas. Good reading skills or parental assistance required for this in-depth biographical survey.

Unique Children will Love this book!
Do you know a child who feels out of step with the rest of their class? How about one that seems to annoy their teacher because they see the world differently? This biography was made for them!

Dr. Suess seemed to frustrate his teachers as his drawings were so different from all the other children in his class - in this book, readers will learn that he reveled in his uniqueness and embraced his unusual view of the world. As a result, he was able to find success as a cartoonist -- though it did take time.

The biography isn't just for little kids, but could be gifted to any "child" who needs to feel proud of their uniqueness.

Do you hear a drum beat that no one else can hear? Be glad you do -- you might grow up to be as successful as Dr. Suess.

Seuss-on!
A great biography for the under-12 crowd, The Boy on Fairfield Street is beautifully illustrated and tenderly written. From Ted's experiences with bullies to a humiliating experience with former President Theodore Roosevelt, Krull has shown the reader Ted's common failings as well as his extraordinary perseverance. Disappointing, however, is the short-stop ending just after Ted moves to New York at 22, before any of his famous children's books were written. There is an additional four page narrative but it is not fully illustrated as the rest of the story is and may leave some children cold unless they have help to get through it. Overall, a wonderful book that is just perfect for a celebration of Dr. Seuss's birthday on March 2 or a celebration of this year's Seussentennial. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

The Kids Love This Book
When I was a working librarian, I read this books (and the others)to my storytimes. When I retired I started to volunteer in an inner city school. I was not certain how the children would react to the book. I am now in my sixth year reading to Preschool, Kindergarten and First Grade. They hear the first four books each year and they always ask me to repeat the books. The line about "no one had ever asked him to come in" always gets a great response. I think everyone should read these McDuff books. So many classes can't be wrong!

Doesn't take a bite out of crime.Just out of shortbread.
Dear old Rosemary Wells.If you've ever read her books about that famous bunny Max or classic titles like, "Morris' Disappearing Bag" then you know that her stories, while disjointed, can often be truly charming works of preschool art.So when I discovered the McDuff books (written by her but illustrated by someone else entirely) I was ill at ease.I mean, Wells draws such cute little bunnies.How could anyone else adapt to her words?On reading the first book of the McDuff series, "McDuff Moves In", I was amazed to find myself suddenly on the oposte side of the fence.The pictures in this book are really quite charming.From the cute little Scottie named McDuff to the 1950s setting, visually this story's a charmer.But strange as it may seem, Wells's words are out-of-place here.Though a brief tale with little in the way of plot, somehow this book is not as direct or understandable as it might be.A pity.

On our first view of little white McDuff, he's sitting in the back of a city pound truck.After a providential bump in the road and a quick escape, the solitary doggy goes down a nice suburban street in search of food and shelter.Door number one at the first house growls at him.Door number two at the second house hisses at him.But door number three at the third house is just right.There, a friendly couple take him in, feed him, give him a bath, then decide they haven't room for a doggy.Fortunately an attempted car ride to the pound proves that maybe this couple has grown a bit attached to their shaggy new friend.Happy ending and shortbread biscuits for all.

The book bears a striking resemblance to Lyn Rossiter McFarland's subsequent similarly plotted picture book, "Widget".The difference, however, is that "Widget" is the stronger story.Though I was with "McDuff" through the beginning, about the time he stumbles on the kindly couple I found my eyebrows slowly beginning to lift.For example, when McDuff appears outside the third home, the book says the following: "Somebody opened the door and asked him to come in.It was Lucy. 'This is Fred', said Lucy".Looking at the picture of both Fred and Lucy staring at the pup on their porch, I naturally assumed that now the dog was named Fred.Not so much.The text and the pictures don't mesh particularly well either.When the book says that Fred checks McDuff's collar, the picture shows Fred sitting on a chair with McDuff hiding underneath.Plus the language is oddly stilted.It ends with the words, " 'How happy we are!', they said in their dreams", which is half an inch shy of hokey and a sneeze away from outright saccharine.I don't think I'm conveying the book's inability to tell its story convincingly to you.Nevertheless, I strongly urge you to flip through this story long before you decide to buy it.Long before.

Which is not to say that the pictures don't almost make up for its narrative flaws.Illustrator Susan Jeffers has a Caldecott Honor Award under her belt and it shows.From Lucy's painted toenails and felt hat spotted bathrobe to the image of the three new friends happily munching on McDuff's shortbread biscuits at the tale's end, this book seeks to enchant.Seeks and, were it not for the words, would succeed.I loved the fabulous 40s-50s decor.I liked the scared little McDuff turning into a confident happy pup in a loving home.I liked how realistic these images were and how original the setting became.Obviously if Rosemary Wells had illustrated this tale herself she would've done it in an entirely different way.It's just her own bloody good luck that she found herself paired with such a supremely talented artist.

So it's entirely up to you."McDuff Moves In" has much in its favor and much against it as well.Personally, I suggest that if you are looking for a tale of a cute little white Scottie finding a home then you should seek out "Widget" by Lyn Rossiter McFarland forthwith.If, however, you're a fan of the period picture book genre and you like Susan Jeffers's work, "McDuff" may be a great choice for you and yours.It is not Rosemary Wells's best writing and the story is pretty touch n' go.Still, there are things to recommend it.Definitely give it a trial run.

Fantastic!
I own this book, as well as others in the series. They are just great! My mom owns a Westie, perfectly named Duffy(he got the name before we new about the books), and the illustrator captures the essence of the Westie. Every picture is perfectly drawn to show the character of a Westie. I love the author as well. I have been a teacher and have always read Ms. Wells' books to my students and the McDuff series is loved by all. McDuff moves in is just a fun book to read and I recommend it to all ages.

Ashleigh LOVED this Rosemary Wells book!
I am a 2nd grader.My name is Ashleigh.I have been reading books by Rosemary Wells.My favorite book is McDUFF MOVES IN.I like this book because it makes me feel happy when McDuff finds a home.

Ashleigh LOVED this Rosemary Wells book!
I am a 2nd grader at Anna Merritt Elementary School.My name is Ashleigh.I have been reading books by Rosemary Wells.My favorite book is McDUFF MOVES IN because it makes me feel happy when McDuff finds a home. ... Read more

Book Description

One day, Stan and Jan Berenstain were captured by a family of bears.

It was a family of three -- an overenthusiastic Papa whose high opinion of himself was exceeded only by his ability to do silly things (often placing himself in jeopardy from bees, skunks, low-hanging branches, whales, irate farmers, etc.), a wise, steady Mama with a firm grip on reality, and a bright enterprising little boy cub.

For more than forty years, the Berenstains' delightfully enchanting stories of this trio have charmed children, and now they can enjoy them listening to the authors read the best of their hilarious tales.

Book Description

Taking care of baby

Amelia Bedelia has her hands full when she takes care of Mrs. Lane's baby. As usual, the literal-minded housekeeper mixes things up, but she also wins the heart of her newest and youngest fan.

Reviews (7)

Amelia and the baby
In this book a wacky woman who does not have much common sense baby-sits. This book teaches that you can learn from your mistakes and that the way someone does something different than you might not be the wrong way it might be a better way to do things. It is a good book for 6-8 year olds. It is a good book and I think many kids would enjoy it.

Amelia Bedelia and the Baby
As a child this was one of my favorite books. I just loved anything that had to do with babies, as well as the witty Amelia Bedelia. When I heard of this book it sparked my interest. As usual you can't help but smile when you read about Amelia Bedelia's literal view on life. One of my favorite parts of the book is when Amelia Bedelia is reading her baby-sitting "to do" list and it says to apply powder after bath time. So then Amelia powders herself instead of the baby. Amelia is touched by the thoughtfulness of Mrs. Lane(the baby's mother). This book is altogether clever and enduring. Amelia Bedelia and baby Missy will definately find a place in your heart.

Amelia Bedelia and the Baby
This book was a very funny book. It tells about Amelia Bedelia babysitting for the first time and not knowing how everything works. Amelia goes to Mrs. Lane's house and she gives Amelia a list of things to do for the baby while she is gone. After she leaves the baby, Missy, starts to cry. Amelia doesn't know what to do so she looks at the list, it says "Give Missy a bottle", so Amelia went in the kitchen and looked for a bottle. All she found were glass bottles and she decided that that was too dangerous to give to Missy.
Then one of Mrs. Lane's friends, Mrs. Carter, visits to give Amelia strawberries she picked. She notices that Missy is crying and she shows Amelia what kind of bottle she is supposed to give Missy. They give her the bottle and Missy stops crying. Amelia thanks Mrs. Carter and then Mrs. Carter leaves.
When Missy had finished her bottle Amelia saw what she had to do next, it was to give Missy a bath.
After she gave her the bath she checked the list to see what she was to do next it said, "Be sure to use the baby powder", but instead of putting it on Missy, Amelia put it on herself.
Again she checked the list and it said that from two until three is naptime, but Amelia hated naps so she decidedto make strawberry tarts instead. She walked back into Missy's bedroom and she was asleep so she let Missy have her nap for her.
She went into the kitchen and began to make her very good strawberry tarts and after she was done she set all the tarts out on a plate.
Then Missy began to cry again so Amelia looked over her list to see what she had to do now. It was time to give Missy her mashed banana, so Amelia made her way down to the kithchen and picked up a banana and started to mash it with her hands while it was still in the skin. She went upstairs and gave it to Missy. She started to mash it too, and it exploded all over her playpen. So Amelia took her to get another bath.
Next the list said to put Missy in her stroller, so Amelia did that. Then it said, "But first put a sweater on her." So, Amelia took Missy out of the stroller and put a sweater on Missy and put her back in the stroller. She read the list to see what it said next. It said, "Take her out for a while." Which meant to take outside for a little while, but Amelia misinterpreted and took her out of the stroller all together.
She looked at the list again and it was now playtime until five. But she didn't understand because she thought that it meant play time for her. So she took out Missy's toys and began to play. Missy began to fuss and Amelia saw that it was five o'clock and time for Missy's dinner.
She took Missy downstairs with her and put her in her highchair. The list said to give Missy baby food. So, Amelia sliced baby tomatoes, she cooked baby potatoes, and she made baby hamburgers. She put it on a plate then poured ketchup all over it. Misy put her hands in it, tasted it, and ate it all up. Then Amelia gave her one of her straberry tarts to eat for dessert. She ate it too, but now she was a big mess, so Amelia was about to go get her a bath when Mrs. Lane and Mr. Lane came home. Mrs. Lane was terribly mad when she saw all the red stuff all over her baby, but then her husband gave her a taste of one of Amelia's tarts. She loved it and apologized for her bahavior. Missy started to cry so, Mrs. Lane went over to her, but Missy wanted Amelia Bedelia. Mrs. Lane saw that Missy like Amelia Bedelia so she asked her to come back again.
Then Amelia left and she was happy that she had learned about babysitting that day.
I liked this book a lot it would be nice to read to child just for fun because it doesn't really teach any kind of values, but they may learn a few things about babies.

KOTEWAU's review
I thimk that this book is almost the perfect childrens
book. It has humor, education, and is fun for anyone to
read.

Cute and humorous
I received this book as a present in the second grade. I still remember laughing each night when I read it. Amelia Bedelia was always doing something funny. This was one of my favorites of the series. ... Read more

Book Description

Curious George is one of the most beloved of all children"s book characters. Now, in these four board books, toddlers can learn about basic concepts—including the alphabet, opposites, emotions, and counting (forward and backward)—with the help of their favorite mischievous monkey.

The set includes
Curious George"s Opposites
Riding forward and backward on his bicycle and letting pigs in and out of their pen, George is up to his usual mischief in this simple book of opposites.

Curious George"s 1 to 10 and Back Again
Help Curious George count ten of his favorite things, first forward and then backward.

Curious George"s ABCs
Read from A to Z along with George in a condensed version of the classic Curious George Learns the Alphabet.

Curious George"s Are You Curious?
Do you ever feel like George?Are you curious?Are you mischievous?Curious kids can read along with their parents to see if they behave like the monkey best known for getting in and out of mischief. ... Read more

Book Description

Guess who's
at bat?

Reviews (6)

Amelia Bedelia "literally" plays the game of baseball
Not since Abbot asked Costello "Who's on First?" has the national pastime been taken so literally. Taking things literally is precisedly what Amelia Bedelia has been doing ever since she first became a housekeeper. Tell her to "Dust the furniture" and she will dutifully find the Dusting Powder and do as she was told, even though at her house they undust the furniture. In Peggy Parish's "Play Ball, Amelia Bedelia," the Grizzlies baseball team is in trouble when one of their players gets sick and they need a replacement for their big game with the Tornadoes. Who steps up to the plate to save the day up the literal-minded Amelia Bedelia.

The fun, of course, comes when the kids tell Amelia Bedelia to tag a runner or make a base hit. Then there is the uniform that she comes up with (you need a uniform to play baseball, right?). The illustrations by Wallace Tripp capture the fun as Amelia Bedelia plays the game of baseball like nobody has ever played it before. Besides, you should see what Amelia Bedelia looks like when she swings a bat. Fortunately, one things she knows how to do right is to fix an empty cookie jar because she makes really great cookies (although she has doubts about using home plate to serve them on to her teammates). Fans of Peggy Parish's creation will enjoy seeing her on the baseball diamond while there might be some fans of the sport who will be introduced to the literally-minded housekeeper for the first time.

Great Baseball Story
In this edition of Amelia Bedelia, Peggy Parish has done another wonderful job at telling a wonderful story. Amelia Bedelia is making an attempt to play baseball, and she has managed to take the lessons literally, as always. She learns stealing bases are okay and putting players out. This is a favorite in my household, and we laughed at Amelia Bedelia's attempts of playing baseball.

Our favorite part was when she hit the winning run, 'stole' every single base along the way, and she ran home like everyone told her to with all the bases. The kids were wonderful in this story and patient, and it was a fantastic read.

I recommend the Amelia Bedelia books for every household. Amelia Bedelia is a fun character, and it will make the kids laugh.

Joy.

fun fiction
My son is 7 and he loves Amelia Bedelia. He thinks all of these books are a hoot! I loved thim as a child as well!

Great Baseball Book
I came across this book while looking for books about baseball for my preschooler. Not much to choose from in this niche market, but this book is a hit! My son thinks it's funny when Amelia Bedelia "steals the bases" and "runs home". Wish there were more books like this!

Fun for Adults and Children Alike
As a child, I read many Amelia Bedelia books and never tired of them. As an adult, I am looking forward to sharing so many of the stories with my own child. The fact that Amelia takes everything so literally allows for countless scenarios which children (and adults) will find hilarious. Whether "stealing home plate" or "dressing the turkey," Amelia always surprises and delights. Children will be begging parents to read these stories again and again. We can all use good, clean humor in our lives. The time to instill that love of laughter should begin in childhood, and the Amelia Bedelia books will certainly delight children everywhere. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Tintin and Snowy avert an oil crisis in the Middle East
"Land of Black Gold" was the first Adventure of Tintin I ever read, so, of course, it has a special place in my heart. It seems that all around the world cars (or lighters) using petrol are exploding. In a storyline eerily prescient of what would happen decades later with the rise of OPEC, the world is on the brink of an oil crisis. In the Middle East the evil Sheik Bab El Ehr tries to overthrow Sheik Ben Kalish Ezab, so Tintin heads to the Middle East to save the day. Throwing a monkey wrench into the proceedings, in addition to the omnipresent evil agents and hapless Thompson brothers, is Abdullah, son of Sheik ben Kalish Ezab, who pulls a constant string of practical jokes on everybody in sight (Historical Note: This is where the Thompsons first develop their habit of becoming extremely hairy at inopportune moments).

I always think of Tintin as constituting "realistic absurdity," which reflects the way our hero plunges on despite the lunacy around him, which exists mainly in the characters rather than the situation. This delicate balance seems to be reflected even in Herge's artwork, where his "clear-line" style combines iconic characters with unusually realistic backgrounds, appeals to me. I also admire his remarkable restraint with Snowy, who "talks" less than any other "talking" dog in comic book history. These are truly timeless tales.

More Historical Notes: "Tintin in the Land of Black Gold" (the 9th Tintin Adventure) was the episode in progress in "Le Vingtieme Siecle" when German troops invaded Belgium on May 10, 1940. Herge suspended the story for eight years and actually began another adventure, "The Crab with the Golden Claws," in the interim, which was published in "Le Soir," one of the few newspapers authorized during the German occupation.

The whole Tintin collection
As a kid, the one single book that would bring me greatest joy and take me to a whole different world was "Adventures of Tintin". I am 25, and I love them more than ever before. It is REALLY a pity that Herge isn't alive today to write about a 1000 more. I sure hope some bright new talent can capture his magic and continue to amaze the millions of Tintin fans who are dying for more of his unique adventures.

His books are guaranteed to keep you captivated, as the adventures are VERY well thought out, and the characters are among the most intriguing ones you have ever imagined. The adventures, the characters, and the ambience of the book in combination give you the best time you have ever had reading any book. Not only will the plot keep you on the edge of your seat, but the characters are guaranteed to make you laugh and keep you coming back for more. Don't take my word for it. TRY IT NOW!

Great Books!
I am only 11, and I have only read some of the Tintin books, and the reason I'm at Amazon.com is to buy all the others. Out of the one's I've read so far, I think "Red Rackham's Treasure" was my favorite. I loved the way Herge made Calculus, and thought he was extremely funny, even when he did get annoying! I love the Tintin books, and look forward to reading every single one again! If I could go over 5 stars, I would, definatly!

Great
I loved Tintin books when I was a kid, and I love them now at age 37. I know I'm not alone, because a Tintin store in San Francisco sells Tintin coffee cups and ties and key chains (grown-up's items!) I myself have a Tintin tie and key chain! THE LAND OF BLACK GOLD is my favorite Tintin book. It has all the best characters, humor, and an intriguing plot. (That's why adults can like them, because many of the books have reasonably sophisticated James-Bond type plots.) Tintin forever! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Great Story, But Gives Rise To Concerns For Chet
The original edition of this book was a great teen mystery story involving a holiday outing and a stolen stamp collection. However this (and several other of the Hardy series) give rise to concern for Chet Morton's health. Repeatedly described as "plump," Chet had great affection for "good food and plenty of it." Chet avoided exercise (unlike boxer Biff Hooper), and this and his propensity to consume were the formula for serious health problems. During the era in which this story was set (and this is also true of the 1956 edition, which wasn't as good as the original), health consciousness was not robust in the Barmet Bay and other areas. Fat and sugar consumption were high, with liberal use of butter and rich fatty sauces. The meals Chet (who appointed himself cook, on the Cabin Island holiday outing) prepared were loaded with cholesterol, as it appears the Hardys and their friends only ate for taste, pleasure and convenience -- not for health. It's sad to contemplate how Chet ended up in later life, given the atrocious eating and dietary habits he exhibited throughout the Hardy series. Let's hope he woke up before it was too late, and he had advanced into irreparable heart disease from his eating. And Iola too.

One Of The Better Revisions
This review concerns the revised 1966 edition. Frank, Joe, Chet and Biff receive permission from Elroy Jefferson to spend their Christmas holiday at his cabin on Cabin Island. Mr. Jefferson also asks for the boys' help in finding his missing grandson. While staying at the cabin, the boys find clues which lead them to believe that a valuable medal collection, stolen from Mr. Jefferson two years ago, is located somewhere on the island. However, before they can find the medals, they must deal with an unscrupulous criminal intent on finding the collection himself and a strange ghost inhabiting the island. This is probably one of the better revisions (I'd give it 3 1/2 stars, if they gave half star ratings); the story closely follows that of the original volume and, while the excellent writing of the original is gone, the book still wasn't written badly. The mystery isn't bad; although, the whole ghost part wasn't very interesting and could have been easily left out. I would recommend reading the original, if possible, but the revision wasn't bad either.

Perhaps The Best Written Of The Books
This review concerns the original 1929 edition. While spending the Christmas holiday on Cabin Island with their chums, Chet and Biff, Frank and Joe Hardy stumble upon a mystery surrounding the disappearance of a valuable stamp collection. The mystery related in this book, though interesting, is average. It is the writing that makes this book a joy to read. The scenes are so well described that one could almost picture oneself there at that time and the language used hasn't been dumbed down like in many of the recent volumes. The action is well-paced and it didn't feel as though the mystery was solved too quickly. This was a great book, definately worth reading.

Mystery Of Cabin Island
This was my 3rd book and my best. I like the plot, and it's hard to tell the outcome of the ending, even though I found out. I got this book from Boise's library, and it was dirty, old, but terrific. No wonder so many people liked it if the book's the way it is now. The ghost part is the least exciting, I'd have to say. But there are so many good parts it's hard to choose which one is the best!!! So if you want a good mystery and action book, this beats all other mystery and action stuff, guaranteed!!!

One of the best Hardy Boys stories
It's Christmas time in Bayport and the Boys and their chums are enjoying themselves iceboating out on Barmet Bay. They decide to explore lonely s Cabin Island but are chased away by a surly stranger (Hanliegh). On the way back, they nearly come to ruin in an accident with another iceboat manned by Tad Carson and Ike Nash, a pair of obnoxious bullies.

Heading home from this near disaster, they find a message from Elroy Jefferson (who's car they recovered in The Shore Road Mystery). They head over to Jefferson's posh digs to collect a reward and obtain permission to camp out on Jefferson's Cabin Island retreat over the Christmas school holiday.

The Boys along with Chet and Biff head out to the island on their iceboats and have an unpleasant encounter with Ike and Tad, who are in cahoots with Hanliegh. They chase Hanliegh off the island and settle in for some rousing winter adventures. Soon, they find their supplies stolen and head to the nearest town to get more from elderly storekeeper, Amos Grice, and, incidentally, discover from him that Jefferson had a valuable stamp collection stolen many years ago.

Back at the island, they have more adventures, discover a notebook dropped by Hanliegh indicating that the stolen stamps are hidden in the chimney of the cabin. They make a search and, surprise, find nothing.

Later, during a howling blizzard, they are forced to rescue Hanliegh who has come to grief in an iceboat accident. The storm increases in intensity, finally blowing down the chimney of the old cabin. Searching through the rubble, the Boys discover the stamp collection which miraculously has escaped any damage whatsoever despite being walled into a chimney over a huge fireplace for more than twenty years. They return the stamps to Jefferson and pick up yet another reward and Jefferson's offer to let them use his Cabin Island retreat any time they want.

Comments: This tale appears on almost everyone's list of favorite Hardy Boys stories and with good reason. The story is well written and paced and the prose is charmingly evocative and descriptive. One can almost picture oneself ice-boating and camping along with the Boys and their chums.

The mystery is, as usual, solved pretty much by dumb luck (aided by the infamous foul weather that seems to plague Bayport) but this doesn't take away from the excitement and mystery presented here.

The action is not too far removed from that which a teenage detective could accomplish. The villians are bad but not too bad and the mystery not too difficult to solve.

As in a few other of the earlier stories, the Boys arm themselves in this book (this time with rifles) and, although they threaten to use them, no shootings take place (except for a hapless fox who meets his demise in a totally extraneous sequence.)

Apparently the accident with the iceboat shook up Frank more than he cared to admit because the suggestion to go camping had to be made twice to him! When the suggestion was made the second time, Frank acts like he never heard of such a thing before - oh well!

I'm glad to note that, for once, the Boys' chums got a share of the reward but sadly there was no lip-smacking feast to cap off the Boys triumph in this case!

The revised version of this story by Andrew Svenson sticks close to the plot of the original and although the charm of McFarlane's prose is completely lost, it still ranks among the best of the revisions. ... Read more

Book Description

"The room shared by Brother and Sister is a mess because the cubs argue over who should neaten up instead of working together. Sure to make toddlers smile while they absorb an implied lesson."--Publishers Weekly. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

One of the best books of all time
I read this book when a child, and still remember it at age 25. Now, it didn't turn me into a neat person, but with fond memories of this book in my heart, I plan on having a clean room ... one of these days.

Cleaning is fun?
After my son and I read this book, he stopped me right before the last lane and said to me "Cleaning your room is supposed to be fun?" I sat there for a moment pondering on how i could reply in a way that i wouldn't be lying. "It depends on if you make it fun." I replied. Before hearing the last line, he stood up and ran to his room. He grabbed a hockey stick and started shooting his toys under the bed. He said "Cleaning can be fun."

Messy Room
The Berenstain Bears and the Messy Room is about Bother and Sister Bear who never clean their room. One day, Momma bear had enough and made the cubs change their way. After talking, they decide to do something about it. This book teaches children about responsibility. This book is good for children from 4-11. I thought it was a pretty good book.

The berenstain Bears and the messy room
The Berenstain Bears and the Messy room by Stan berenstain is an exciting and hilarious book. My favorite part of this book is when brother bear fell down with the mess in his room. This book is an exciting and hilarious book. Ihope you read this book.

completely unsuitable
As usual the lesson is right on target, but decapitating sister as an example to the family sends entirely the wrong message to children. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

For the final time Tintin and the Captain share an adventure
"Tintin and the Picaros" is the final adventure of the intrepid little reporter by Hergé not that there is really any sense of this being the end of the road. The only part of the story that suggests as much is the surprising discover that suddenly Captain Haddock can no longer stand the taste of alcohol. As the story begins the Captain and Tintin are discussing the state of affairs in San Theodoros, when General Tapioca's dictatorship continues to rule in place of their old friend Alcazar. Then news comes that prima donna Bianca Castafiore has been arrested by Tapioca as part of a conspiracy to over throw the government. Haddock things this is a good thing, because he knows exactly what sort of "guest" the soprano is like when he enjoys someone's hospitality. But then Tapioca charges Haddock, Tintin, and Professor Calculus are declared to be part of the conspiracy and a series of charges and countercharges, as well as outright insults, fly back in the forth in the headlines between Haddock and Tapioca. Finally the Captain agrees to accept Tapioca's "invitation" to come to San Theodoros to discuss the matter. Haddock is pretty much trapped into agreeing, and Calculus insists on going to Madame Castafiore's rescue, but Tintin refuses to go, knowing that just has to be a trap.

The title of the book refers to the Picaros, which is the name of the rebels in the mountains who want to take back the government of San Theodoros and return Alcazar to power. In this final Adventure of Tintin we are back on familiar ground for the most part, both in terms of the geography and the characters. We know, of course, that Tintin has not abandoned his friends and eagerly anticipate some clever way of arriving upon the scene at a most opportune moment. However, this turns out not to be the case, and when Tintin does arrive on the scene you know that Hergé is providing a standard adventure for his hero and his friends, and not something special, even if the final panel does make a point about the plight of Third World countries. But while "Tintin and the Picaros" is an average adventure at best, there can be no doubt that taken together these 21 stories (23 if you count the two earlier "flawed" adventures) are a major accomplishment in the field of comic books. I only wish I had made a point of reading these classics two or three decades earlier.

Banana Republic...
Bianca Castafiore, the 'Milanese nightingale' is arrested in San Theodoros, for allegedly plotting against the regime of General Tapioca, who goes on to accuse Tintin, Captain Haddock and Professor Calculus of working with Castafiore to overthrow his government in support of their friend, General Alcazar.

Tapioca lures our friends to San Theodoros by inviting them to come there and prove their innocence.
There the plot thickens and they are forced to flee their hosts and join up with Alcazar and his band of rebels: The Picaros, in the heart of San Theodoros' tropical jungle.

Behind the machinations of the Tapioca regime is the henchman is the sinister Colonel Sponsz, henchman of Tapioca's ally, and the Bordurian dictator, Marshall Kurvi Tasch.

With much humour, excitement and colour, Herge captures well the flavour of a Latin American Banana Republic.

Interesting to note is his play on the relationship of Borduria to her satellite, the Tapioca dictatorship in San Theodoros, resembling the relationship of the old Soviet Union to Cuba.

My Review
I have been reading Tintin books for a long time, and this book is one of the better ones of the collection. Altough it doesn't have all the humor and adventure as some of the other ones it still is loaded with lots of fun.

wonderful tintin, one of the first ones I read
This Tintin adventure is a good grand finale. (It is the last Tintin comic.) Splendid and amazing are the only words that I can come up with to describe it. You have to read it to believe it.

The Final Tintin adventure
Many years ago when my love of Tintin books began, I always found this book made me a little sad. I had always figured this emotional reaction was due to the fact that Tintin and the Picaros is the last of the wonderful series. However, after reading the excellent book Tintin and the World of Herge by Benoit Peeters, I understood that the great Herge himself was reaching the end of his rope. This book took him eight years to complete. Within its pages some of Herge's weariness can be discerned, as his characters often reflected not only the times in which Herge lived but the emotional state of the author as well.

The most glaring example of this reflection is Tintin's unwillingness to be a part of the adventure. It is Captain Haddock rushing off to South America while Tintin only follows him at a later date. This book places the Thompson Twins and Castafiore in danger; it is up to Tintin & Co to stage a coup to free them. This book contains some great Calculus moments. General Alcazar's pushy wife provides the best comic relief.

It's advisable to read The Broken Ear before Tintin and the Picaros in order for the reader to become acquainted with the politics of San Theodoros and the characters Pablo and Dr. Ridgewell. This isn't one of the better Tintins, but it's part of a truly amazing series all the same. ... Read more

Amazon.com

"It's awfully awfully awful / when you can't make up your mind!"For one poor boy, this indecision takes the form of dozens of Seussian Hunches--a Sour Hunch, a Very Odd Hunch, the Homework Hunch, a Four-Way Hunch, the Nowhere Hunch--all with elaborate finger-pointing hats and strong opinions of their own. Pretty soon the boy's head is "frightfully ga-fluppted" and "murky-mooshy:"

By now my mind was so mixed up
I really didn't know
if I wanted to go to the barber shop
or to Boise, Idaho.

After much arguing and "barg-uing" and shoving and yelling, a decision is made and our hero follows a Munch Hunch to lunch. The nonsense and cleverly crafted message in Hunches in Bunches is right up to par with Dr. Seuss's many other classic picture books. It's easy to become overwhelmed by advice when you have a mind--but can't make it up.Sometimes the best plan is to trust your own hunches, and disregard the vocal bunch of Hunches clamoring for attention. This makes a great gift for well-meaning flakes and ditherers of all ages. (Ages 4 and older) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (4)

If you have ADD, this is a fun way to look at it!
This is definitely one of my favorites! It is a book that is different than most and is very enjoyable. Allows kids (and multi-tasking parents) to see the importance of staying on task.

one of my least favorite suess books
I ADORE Dr. Seuss. In fact, I'm pretty sure that his work is the source of a sizeable chunk of my love for language in general, and for poetry. In fact, I think my love for Shakespeare started as a child, with Dr. Suess. This stuff was really profound for me.

But I have to say, if Geisel really did write this one, he was NOT in top form. The music of his language is missing - some of the verses are downright clunky, and the usual depth is lost in horrific lines like "... together we'll trot to some real cool spot and play a few video games."

Maybe he was trying to be contemporary. And some of the illustrations here really ARE wonderful, but I have to say, this Seuss lover (who now spends as much as an hour and a half a day reading the stuff to his own daughter, who love it) finds this one way off the mark.

Taking Charge of Internal Debates
Children usually do not realize that the internal dialogue in the mind is a source of confusion and distraction for almost everyone. The great strength of this book is to make that psychological reality tangible and to address ways to deal with it. You also give the parent a chance to share her or his perspective on internal voices. The book's key point is that you should consider all the perspectives that occur to you, compare them, and choose a good one to pursue.

"Do you ever sit and fidget

when you don't know what to do . . . ?"

"My trouble was I had a mind.

But I couldn't make it up."

"Oh, you get so many hunches . . . ."

In the story, the hunches include one to do homework, another to go play video games, yet another to fix the rusting bicycle, while another suggests a bathroom break. As the hunches build, the decision gets harder. Thinking about it just adds more hunches.

The key point is:

"Make your mind up! . . .

Only you can make your mind up!"

The suggested method is to split yourself into several people and to decide what to do by letting each one represent a hunch. To me, that's a variation on the Benjamin Franklin method of putting each choice down on a piece of paper with a list of the pros and cons for each. Then compare the lists.

If everyone learned that method at a young age, it would be wonderful! A lot of adults still need to learn this lesson, so don't limit your gift giving of this book to youngsters!

After you finish this book, I suggest that you encourage your child to verbalize his or her urges. Then talk to her or him about how he or she is sorting it all out.

Take the best choice, rather than the most impulsive one!

Hunches in Bunches
This book is great for children. It was my little sister'sfavorite for years. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Exploring Tintins wonderful books
This was a great book! It surveyed knowledge of astronomy(which is always interesting), and then put on top of that a great mystery and awsome characters! You can't have a great Tintin story without Captain Haddock, Tintin, Proffesor Calculous, T&T, Snowy, and even Wolf make the story great. Herge really knows how to write!

Tintin's greatest adventure as the first man on the moon
"Explorers on the Moon" ("On a Marche Sur La Lune," 1954) picks up right where "Destination Moon" left off... But what makes "Explorers on the Moon" so fascinating is the documentary detail that Herge infuses into the story. I cannot think of a 1950s science fiction film that predicts as accurately what happened when Apollo 11 went to the moon a decade and a half later. One of the chief charms of Herge's artwork has always been the way his caricature drawings of Tintin and friends are contrasted by the realistic backgrounds, and this artistic style achieves its apex when we see the spaceship approaching the moon. "Explorers on the Moon" would work as a straight-forward first man on the moon type story, but, of course, in Herge's hands it becomes so much more. Taken together with "Destination Moon," this has got to constitute Tintin's greatest adventure.

Futuristic animated adventure
This science fictional comic , written in 1954 , 14 years before the first actual moon landing , fails to disappoint , after the precedent set by its prequel , 'Destination Moon'.
This adventure sees Tintin and friends successfully go to the moon and back , defeating such problems as a rapidly depleting oxygen source and villains who have followed them into space .
I read it when I was ten and it led me to become interested in space.
I remember sitting on top of the roof of my home , reading it , and seeing a shooting star fly by. There is something intriguing about these comics.

"It was a very neat adventure on the moon."
I liked this book because I could understand it very throughly. It was a very neat sequal to "Destination Moon". And because it was a good adventure. It was good because it had a very good theme about the moon. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A great lesson!
Brother Bear and Sister Bear are in a big fight. They are not speaking to each other and if they are they don't say anything nice.

This teachs kids how even if you and a brother or sister are fighting how to work through it. It is a great book for kids!

what do you do when two bears get in a fight?
This book reminds me so much of my family, one day you'll be nice and the next you're picking at each other non stop!

this story is so fantastic because it's realistic and it happends to everybody! Brother & sister bear always get along but not today they're picky, sister bear takes too long in the bathroom and brother bear wont sit with sister bear on the school bus! but how does mama and papa bear stop them? read it and take some advise!

Those battling Bears!
"The Berenstain Bears Get in a Fight," by Stan and Jan Berenstain, is another wonderful entry in this excellent series of illustrated children's books. In this volume, there's trouble brewing in the Bear family when Brother and Sister Bear start feuding. But, with a little helpful guidance from their caring parents, the sparring siblings learn some life lessons about fighting--and about making up.

This book pairs an easy-to-read text with colorful illustrations. These semi-human bears have an amusingly "cartoony" look to them, and the best of the book's illustrations contain delightful details. I especially love the pictures that show the Bears going through their daily routine--eating breakfast, riding the bus to school, etc. I give "The Berenstain Bears Get in a Fight" an enthusiastic recommendation.

This book is sooooooo COOL!!!!!!
This book really taught me about fighting with my sisters and brothers. It was so good. Sister bear and Brother Bear are the coolest book characters! I could not put this cool book down. I LOVED IT!!!!!!!!!!! ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Adorable!
I love that they've combined 4 of the McDuff stories under one cover. This is a great gift for a child who does not have any McDuff books. The illustrations are gorgeous and right on the mark as far as capturing the Westie personality. My children love the McDuff tales almost as much as they love their own Westie, Auggie.

Really fun
The McDuff stories are so much fun. The illustrations are so unique and rich. My 6 year old daughter really loves to read these books. Not only are they about a really adorable dog, but they are fun to read, too. After your second or 3rd McDuff story, you really get attached to this dog! We're on a mission to collect all the McDuff stories, so this is a great book to start with!

Absolutely the CUTEST children's book ever!
As the owner of an adorable Westie puppy, I couldn't resist this book. Even tho' I'm an adult, I enjoyed this book immensely, because of the cute little stories and the incredibly cute Westie drawings. I could be a little biased (that could be my little Katie!), but I think it's the cutest children's book I've ever seen! It's quite obvious the author & artist are Westie owners, and they've put their experiences to good use!

Wonderful stories with incredible illustrations.
Being the owner of a Scottie, Westie and a Cairn, I am so impressed with how the expressions and nuances of the Westie are so realistic and well captured. This is a story/picture book for children of all ages. I am a 39 year old child and I just love the pictures as I have seen the expressions in my own real life "McDuff" - actually his name is Bentley.

Can't wait for McDuff's Birthday!
I bought this book just a few weeks ago to read to my unborn son who is due in June. I can't wait until he's able to tell me that he wants to read McDuff at bedtime. I have to agree with the other reviewer when she says that the innocence this book portrays is extremely refreshing. McDuff's birthday is due out this year and I've already got it on order! Keep 'em coming, Ms. Wells! ... Read more

Book Description

Winnie the Pooh comes to life in this charming CD storybook!

Your child will love hearing Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, and more in these beloved Winnie the Pooh stories and rhymes.Features four favorite stories, eight rhymes, and over an hour of listening enjoyment – all packaged together in one collectable edition.

Features Winnie the Pooh favorites:

- Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day
- Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree
- Winnie the Pooh and a Day for Eeyore
- Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too
- And more!

The perfect collection for little pooh bears everywhere! ... Read more

Book Description

It's time for a routine check-up with Dr. Gert Grizzly. Sister Bear is brave

about her booster shot, and Brother Bear is fine, but--achoo!--is that Papa

Bear sneezing? "A light-hearted approach to the subject with straightforward

information."--Appraisal.




... Read more

Reviews (5)

Not All Doctors Are Bad.
Most children are afraid of going to the doctor (well a lot of adults are, too, but for completely different reasons). When the word doctor is mentioned to kids images of needles, blood, bandages, and strange looking objects come to mind. Reading THE BERENSTAIN BEARS GO TO THE DOCTOR may help relieve some of the fears that children have when they know they are going to the doctor.

In the story, Brother and Sister Bear have to go to Dr. Gert Grizzly to have a checkup. Brother isn't too bothered by the whole thing, but Sister is a bit worried. The next day Sister is able to help out some frightened younger cubs while she is in the waiting room and sets an example for all the children to follow.

Overall, a delightful little book that helps relieve children's fears of going to the doctor and gives them a broader perspective about life.

Check-up
Its the cubs time for their first check-up. Sister is VERy nervous, but both of them are worried because they thing that they might get a shot.

It is a good book to read to your kids if they are going to be going for their first check-up or anytime.

Book review for The Berenstain Bears Go To The Doctor
The berenstain Bears Go To The Doctor is a great book.I especially like how it has the cubs (brother and sister) going to the doctor for a check-up. They ended up not finding anything wrong with them and getting a shot anyway so they don't get sick. It turns out that papa, whose convises them that he never gets sick, gets sick. This is a really good book and fun to read. I would recommend this book to anyone.

They are the best books!!
I love the Berenstain Bear Book Series. They are interesting, exciting and fun to read. I learn alot of new things when I read the stories. Every kid should read the Berenstain Bear Books!!! I know that every kid will love them!!!!!!!!

I like the book.
It is fun. I like it ... Read more

Book Description

Everything is ready for Biscuit to take a bath'everything except Biscuit! After rolling in the mud and playing in the garden with his friend Puddles, will Biscuit ever get clean? Whether or not they share Biscuit's reluctance to take a bath, beginning readers will adore reading about his appealing antics in this My First I Can Read Book, the third in the best-selling series about the popular puppy.

2001 Garden State Children's Book Award (Easy Rdr Cat.)

Reviews (5)

Great beginner reader book!
My daughter, who is 5, loves all the Biscuit books! They're great for beginner readers! We haven't found any she likes better, so we just keep on buying all the Biscuit books we can find. She is definitely a Biscuit fan!

Two Types of Puddles
It is time for Biscuit to have a bath. The Girl In The Purple Sneakers has everything all set. Everything except Biscuit who has other things he would like to do. This is also the First book where his friend Puddles shows up.

Biscuit is reluctant to take his bath, but after making a mess and some puddles of his own, it is finally time to get clean.

This is one of the earliest and best Biscuit books. My daughter loves it and I can use it to illustrate that when things need to be done, we will get them done even if she resists.

More great illustrations and text that my daughter likes to illuminate with her own story telling and hand gestures.

An amusing, wonderful little book
My 18-month old daughter adores this Biscuit book. (And now, some others as well.) The pictures couldn't be cuter, and the text is interesting and there's just enough of it to keep her engaged. It's a very fun, simple story, but she definitely "gets it." I think what makes it appealing to her is that it's got a real narrative element to it, as opposed to most of her books, which are just pictures and words, or nonsensical rhymes that don't really have a point.

Great Reading for Little Ones
My 4 1/2 loves to read through this on her own. It is fun and easy for her to get through.

More fun with Biscuit
My 3-year-old loves the Biscuit series. This book takes Biscuit and his little girl owner through an unwanted bath for Biscuit. In usual Biscuit fashion he resists doing what he is supposed to (which may be why the Biscuit series appeals so to older toddlers--they can relate!). The little girl is always patient and sweet, even when Biscuit makes a mess or gets her wet or dirty she continues to treat him nicely. I believe this is a nice lesson for a little one, and the easy-to-read format makes it fun for them to make "Bow wow" and "Woof" sounds along with the main character. When my 5-year-old started to read the Biscuit books were popular with her because she could feel a sense of accomplishment when she could read it herself. ... Read more

Book Description

Illustrated in full color. Mama Bear is tired of hearing how many Bearbie

dolls Lizzy Bruin has and how many Game Bear video games Cousin Freddy just

got. During a thunderstorm, Mama gets her cubs to realize that love and a good

home are much more valuable than material possessions.




... Read more

Reviews (2)

The Berenstain Bears Count Their Blessings
This book just happens to be one of the many books in the Berenstain Bears collection. Each book is writen in which to teach children. This book teaches children that they should appreciate what they have, and that they're not less fortunate like many others. This book, along with the rest of the Berenstain collection is marvelous. The authors, Stan and Jan Berenstain, put every responsibility, and lesson each parent wants their child to know, into fun and wonderful stories.

This book, like all the other Berenstain B. books, is GREAT!
Although I am already 10, I think that the Berenstain Bear Books are very good and fun to read. Also, they have a great value or moral to the story. The book reminds me of the problems and solutions to daily life. It is ann extremely good book. In the Berenstain Bears count their blessings, Sister and Brother Bear learn not to be selfish. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Marco is in a pickle. His father has instructed him to keep his eyes peeled for interesting sights on the way to and from school, but all Marco has seen is a boring old horse and wagon. Imagine if he had something more to report, say, a zebra pulling the wagon. Or better yet, the zebra could be pulling a blue and gold chariot. No, wait! Maybe it should be a reindeer in that harness. Marco's story grows ever more elaborate as he reasons that a reindeer would be happier pulling a sled, then that a really unusual sight would be an elephant with a ruby-bedecked rajah enthroned on top. "Say! That makes a story that no one can beat, / When I say that I saw it on Mulberry Street."Time and again, Marco tops himself until he is positively wound up with excitement and bursts into his home to tell his dad what he saw on Mulberry Street.

Pulitzer-prize winning Dr. Seuss needs no introduction. His ode to the imagination of a child is as fresh and exquisitely outlandish today as it was when first published in 1937. This is a classic that will never fade with age. (Ages 3 to 8) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (12)

An uneven jaunt along Mulberry Street
First published in 1937, "And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street" is, I believe, the earliest of Dr. Seuss' many children's books. While it is an entertaining book with humorous illustrations, on the whole I find "Mulberry Street" to be oddly unsatisfying.

The story concerns young Marco, who has been asked by his father to tell him what he sees on the walk home from school. Seeing nothing but a horse and wagon, Marco lets his imagination run wild, until the horse and wagon are transformed into an elephant and brass band, accompanied by numerous other people and animals.

Without giving away the ending, I will say that the book seems to deliver a curiously conflicted message regarding storytelling and imagination. Although "Mulberry Street" is not at the level of Seuss' greatest classics, it is still an important landmark in children's literature, and would make a good addition to any family or school library.

Leslie and Lisa's Review
My favorite book out of the ten I read is And To Think That I Saw It On Mulberry Street by Dr. Seuss. I liked this book because after you read it your imagination is running wild. It is a book about a young boy's imagination when you can't stop it from running like an Energizer battery. After the story was over I couldn't stop thinking about more things to add to the young boy's story to make it even better. It is a great book for this project because you are really tapping into your childhood and your young imagination. I think everyone should read this book to see the magic of being a child. If you like Dr. Seuss books this is one you will really enjoy. It is fast pace and it rhymes to help the story be more fun.
My stepmom thought that this book was very creative because it was full of imagination. This book made her laugh because all of Marco's ideas were very silly and fun. She thought that it read at a very fast pace. She also loved the pictures and drawings because they kept changing as the boy's thoughts kept elaborating. The words rhymed from line to line keeping her interest throughout the book. Lastly, she shared that Dr. Seuss is one of her favorite authors of all time.

Mulberry Street
The main character in this book