Book Description

A young woman holds her newborn son
And looks at him lovingly.
Softly she sings to him:
"I'll love you forever
I'll like you for always
As long as I'm living
My baby you'll be"

So begins the story that has touched the hearts of millions of Americans. Since publication in l986, "Love You Forever" has sold more than 15 million copies in paperback and the regular hardcover edition (as well as hundreds of thousands of copies in Spanish and French).

Now this bestseller is available in a bigger hardcover edition. Made from new film with a dust jacket added, this 10" x 10" new edition will be appreciated by all of the book's fans who want a bigger, keepsake edition of their favorite book. ... Read more

Reviews (428)

The very best story a parent can read to their child
This story has been sort of a family tradition for us. It was shown to me by my grandmother just before she died and the message was so touching that I went out and bought it for my daughter; only it remains with all my personal keepsakes! I defy any parent to read this story to their child and not come away from it with a tear in their eye and squeezing their child just a little bit tighter. It is the amazing yet true story of how a child can drive a parent crazy with their behavior but the parent can still love them with all their hearts, no matter how old they get. It also shows how that love is shared in the feelings of the child. It reminds me of what my mother always said to us "I may not like the things you do, but I will always love you". Someday I will pass this book on to my daughter; maybe when she has children of her own, but for now I'm buying it for a young friend of mine who with her new baby boy is just beginning to know a love so strong as one has never known before they look at the face of their "very new baby... and rock them back and forth... and sing 'I'll love you forever, I'll like you for always, as long as I'm living my baby you'll be.' "

all-age appropriate
This book was given to me by my mother when I had a house-full of 4 children under the age of 4. I was busy, and set it aside for a day or two, until she said, " Read the book today, then call me." I read it, called her, and was told that she had terminal lung cancer. This book was the only way my mother could tell me how she felt about me. She was never one to be open about her feelings, and I honestly cannot remember her telling me she loved me, until the last 6 months of her life. By then I was over 35, and she started with this book.
I would recommend this book for any age, any gender. The love it speaks of is one we all need to remember, and share with those close to us, even if we have to do it by sharing this book.
Yes, there are a couple of extremes...climbing in her grown son's window?....but the message is one of importance. Read it.

A 15 year old girl's perspective.
I adore this book! My mom read it to me all the time when I was little. This is a wholesome book that sends a message of love, not death to a child. I'm sure there are a handful of children who focus on the ending, but not many. And the adults who focus on the ending are obviously unable to handle the concept of death. This book doesn't send a message of incest or inappropriate interaction between a mother and child. It tells the story of a loving relationship between a mother and son that lasts beyond the realm of childhood. In fact, when I have children of my own, I will buy my own copy (perhaps sooner) and read it to them.

A wonderful story of unconditional love...
This is a wonderful story. It brings tears to my eyes each time I read it to my girls - and my girls love to hear it. I give a copy to each and every friend and relative who gives birth and they have all loved it too. I have never read another book that so clearly defines unconditional love. Shame on those individuals who harbor so much unhealthy mental garbage that they cannot see the true emotional beauty in this story.

A True Classic
I have loved this FICTIONAL story of unconditional love since the moment I read it 15 years ago. My sons love it, as it reminds them of how their parents will always be there for them.
However, if you harbor sick, twisted feelings against Mother/Mother-In-Law or if you still need more therapy to sort out your "baggage", this might not be the book for you. ... Read more

Book Description

Beloved by generations, Charlotte's Web and Stuart Little are two of the most cherished stories of all time. Now, for the first time ever, these treasured classics are available in lavish new collectors' editions. In addition to a larger trim size, the original black-and-white art by Garth Williams has been lovingly colorized by renowned illustrator Rosemary Wells, adding another dimension to these two perfect books for young and old alike.

Whether you are returning once again to visit with Wilbur, Charlotte, and Stuart, or giving the gift of these treasured stories to a child, these spruced-up editions are sure to delight fans new and old. The interior design has been slightly moderated to give the books a fresh look without changing the original, familiar, and beloved format. Garth Williams's original black-and-white line drawings for the jacket of Stuart Little have also been newly colorized by the celebrated illustrator Rosemary Wells. These classics return with a new look, but with the same heartwarming tales that have captured readers for generations.

Reviews (306)

among the best in children's literature
As we all know, there are those certain books in the world that literally every single child in the world should read, and "Charlotte's Web" is a perfect example of must-read literature. It's such a classic story, not to mention a beautiful one. E.B. White creates such memorable characters and describes them very well. When a little girl named Fern hears that some baby pigs have been born in the barn, she is terrified to hear that her father plans to kill the littlest one, the useless "runt." Fern talks her father into letting her adopt the pig. She names it Wilbur and treats it as her own. Then the time comes for the pig to be more on its own, so Fern is forced to sell him to her uncle, who owns a farm. Wilbur feels lonely and out of place until he meets Charlotte, a kind spider who befriends him and, eventually, saves his life. Beautiful, beautiful story of friendship and courage. It contains characters and a fun plot that any child can enjoy. I read this book for the first time when I was in fourth grade, and I recently helped a little second-grader that I baby-sit for with her "Charlotte's Web" comprehension questions. It brought memories back. This is one of those books that you remember for the rest of your life once you've read it. It's excellent, and well worth the money.

'O best beloved'
This is a book which should have ten stars, not just five.

Faced with the impending slaughter of Wilbur, the runt piglet she has saved and nursed to health, Fern is appalled that she has fattened him for the axe, and commits herself passionately to save her beloved animal. So, too, is Charlotte, the spider who inhabits the barn with him, and woh turns her web into a sort of billboard/oracle which astonishes (and admonishes) the community by weaving words that inform them that this is no ordinary pig! She recruits Templeton the Rat and the rest of the animals in her battle for Wilbur's life...will they succeed? or will Wilbur be a nine-days' wonder? and what will be the ultimate cost?

This is the best present I can imagine to inspire a young reader; it's a wonderful tale of courage against the odds; it's warm, sad, and delightfully funny, and 30 years after I read it in fourth grade, I still get a lump in my throat thinking about it. A special, special book. (With wonderful original illustrations!)

A Great Book about Friendship
I must confess that having just read "Animal Farm" shortly before reading this book, I was a little hesitant about excepting this as a pure children's story without any hidden political agenda. I kept expecting the talking animals to rise up behind the pig and take over the farm. Rest assured however there was none of that, as E.B. White does a good job of keeping the story at a purely kids level.

Wilber is the runt in a litter of pigs, and Mr. Arable the farmer is going to take him out back and have him slaughtered since as he says, "He is small and weak and will never amount to anything." His young daughter Fern who is eight, hears this and requests that her father give the pig to her to raise instead. The father wishing to prove a point to her, allows this so long as she promises to do all the work to take care of it. To Mr. Arable's surprise Fern does an excellent job of raising Wilber and he turns out to be "Some Pig", proving that even though he was very small he still could amount to something.

As Wilber grows bigger the Arable's can no longer support feeding him, so Mr. Arable has Fern sell Wilber to her uncle Mr. Zuckerman who has a farm down the road. There she goes and visits Wilber every day. Being young I guess gives you the ability to sit and listen to the animals more intently than adults, and by doing so Fern is able to hear that the animals can actually talk and she understands them. (Being the father of two girls who are 7 and 5, I'd have to disagree somewhat with this logic as my girls never sit still, and certainly have a hard time listening at times, but for the sake of the story we'll just give them the benefit of the doubt.)

Anywise Wilber meets all the other animals in the barn who are very nice, but none of them are really his close friend. He becomes lonely and wishes for a friend. A gray spider named Charlotte answers his prayers and after introducing herself, she becomes Wilber's best friend.

When the other animals tell Wilber that Mr. Zuckerman is just fatting him up to eat him for Christmas, this makes him greatly disturbed. Charlotte being a great friend promises to do all she can to make Wilber so important to Mr. Zuckerman that he would change his mind. She sets a plan in action to weave messages into her web proclaiming how great the pig is, and by doing so she hopes to trick the adults into believing it as well. With the help of Templeton the rat she obtains some newspaper clippings and begins her work.

Each new message in the web is looked upon as miracle, but rather than looking for any religious connection, the folks in the town just believe they have a very famous pig on their hands and accept it at face value.

The suspense builds as Zuckerman takes Wilber to the Fair. If he can just win an award there, Charlotte knows his life will be saved. Charlotte and Templeton have to stow away in Wilber's crate just to accompany him to the Fair, and then when they get there the pig in the stall next to Wilber is twice as big and looks to be a shoe in for first prize.

This book was obviously written at a much simpler time in history. At the Fair grounds the adults send the kids off on their own. Besides Fern who is 8, she has a little brother Avery who is only 5. After giving them all kinds of warnings such as not to eat too much, and to stay out of the sun, to not get dirty, and to be careful on the rides, the mother stops and says to the husband, "Do you think they'll be all right?" and he responds, "Well they have to grow up sometime." (None of the warnings were about staying away from strangers.) Of course when the kids returned they hadn't stayed out of the sun and were hot, and completely dirty, but they had fun.

Fern meets a boy at the Fair, and starts to grow up a bit as playing with him starts to seem like more fun than talking to bunch of animals.

It is a great book about overcoming obstacles even though you are very small, growing up, and most of all friendship. My girls loved the book as well, and especially seemed to like the illustrations by Garth Williams.

Quality literature for children
A spider saves the life of a friendly pig by spinning accolades about him in her web, thereby producing a miracle that impresses people for miles around. This is a beautifully written little story for children that has real literary quality. The prose is excellent. Note in particular the simple but lovely descriptions of the passing seasons that Mr. White writes. The themes include friendship, coping with the loss of loved ones, and the realization that life goes on, changed but still worth living.

Best book ever
I think this is a really good book.It was about a pig and a spider who were vary good friends. My favorite part of the story was when they went to the Fair. The book was great. ... Read more

Book Description

For over 50 years, Pat the Bunny has held a special place as Baby'sFirst Book...and as a perennial bestseller.Since its first publication in1940, Pat the Bunny has sold over 6 million copies, making it the number 6 all- time bestselling children's hardcover book*.Play along with Paul and Judy asthey smell the flowers, look in the mirror, play peek-a-boo, and, of course, patthe bunny.

*Publisher's Weekly, 2/5/96 ... Read more

Reviews (63)

Simply the Best Ever
Some things become life experiences not only for one's child, but for oneself. "Pat the Bunny" is such a book. It is so dear, so simple, and so very, very perfect that it is deceptive. It really can teach a very young baby about textures and colors and the fact that the world is a varied and wonderful place.

When my first child (now almost 18) was less than 6 months old, I would take her tiny hand and place her chubby fingers on each different texture...the bunny, the cloth, and of course my favorite...Daddy's scratchy beard! (a piece of sandpaper). I don't know how much of the simple and sweet words my daughter absorbed, but she was cuddled in my arms, being rocked (our favorite place to read) and she definitely liked to touch the textures. Now the interesting thing is that the book remained special, and when she should have outgrown it, she did not. It remained in the collection. I think that's because it is just so peaceful and simple, remnants of a former time.

If you are expecting, if one of your friends has a new baby, if you are a grandparent or a loving aunt or uncle, you cannot give a better book for a new baby. It will be that baby's cherished book in short order. Guaranteed. One word of warning, though. Make sure that you are buying the original, with all the textures. I saw one oversized board book version the other day, and its only texture was the cotton of the bunny, which carried through to each page. No no!! We need everything right for this book of a lifetime.

This Bunny's a FAVORITE!!
Our son inherited two identical copies of Pat the Bunny from his big sister (who adored the book equally), and he quickly learned all the fun things he could do with Paul and Judy. His favorite thing to do is to play peek-a-boo with Paul. We are disappointed that the binding has failed on both copies, but gladly, it is due to them being so LOVED. In order to keep our now-one-year-old boy happy, we are buying him a copy of his own for Christmas (and maybe a spare for the diaper bag for outings).A true favorite story-simple and fun! And a great gift to receive for a new baby.

Pat the Bunny
My daughter enjoys this book from time to time. I, on the other hand, can't get past the smell of the flowers in it. I gag everytime I get near it. The book is somewhat bland. I wouldn't really reccoment it to buy.

Cute
This is a cute classic book. It is fun to read and fuzzy bunny is fun for kids.

Eh...
It's a cute book, but very dated. Not very sturdy either. I cringe whenever my son reaches for it, but that's not too often, as it doesn't hold his interest very well. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Young wizard-in-training Harry Potter has had his hands full during hisfirst four years at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As if excellingon and off the Quidditch field isn't enough, Harry has heard evil voices in thewalls, saved lives, and fended off convicts. Only time will tell how Harry willmanage the certain dangers in store for him over the next few years. The firstfour titles of J.K. Rowling's magical, witty, exciting adventures are nowavailable in a gift set, perfect for the legions of children whose big brothersand sisters (and parents) have made off with their copies. These grippingfantasy novels are on the road to becoming classics--don't wait to collect theselovely hardcover editions, illustrated by the talented Mary GrandPré.Each boxed set includes Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, HarryPotter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Prisoner ofAzkaban, and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. (Ages 8 and older)--Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (397)

Absolutely Spellbounding
I remember when I was a child reading books that I found unable to put down, every page full of intrigue and excitement, my imagination would run wild and I was transported into other worlds; as I got older books became something I read for exams and no longer fun, I rarely picked up a book for light entertainment and it was a few years before I started to read books again purely for pleasure. Once I had time to rekindle my love of books I discovered I still got lost in a good novel but never felt involved the way I had as a child.

A few weeks ago one of my sons bought himself J.K.Rowling's Harry Potter set of books and enjoyed reading them, well he is twenty-five and more into Graham Greene, so I thought if he found them an enjoyable light read I would give them a go. I picked up the first book, Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone, from the eye catching brightly coloured, shinny box holding the set of four books and settled down with the intention of reading a couple of chapters, four hours later I was still there engrossed, unable to put the book down.

This may sound cliched, but the books are magical.
I admit that I had never heard of Harry Potter until the huge fuss over the release of the fourth book. I didn't buy into the hype until a friend of mine dragged me to the movie... I admit that I became a Harry believer after the first 10 minutes of the film and wanted more. I immediately asked to borrow her books and read all four over the next two days. After reading her set, I decided that I had to have my own copies.

The Harry Potter books are wonderfully imaginative and great for children of all ages (I myself am a 31 year old child!!) I loved being taken out of the real world and submersed in a world of fantasy and magic. Some say the stories and events are derivative of other classic "good vs. evil" stories; I don't happen to feel that way. The attention to detail of both the Muggle (non-magic folks) and the Wizard worlds is staggering and fascinating and unique. The J.K. Rowling style is also very refreshing and accesible to everyone even with the immense attention to specifics and details.

These books are great and I highly recommend them. They are so unassuming and pleasant and can teach kids a lot about acceptance, forgiveness, and the true meaning of goodness.

AMAZING
I have been a true Harry Potter fan for 6 years now. These books are GREAT. Harry Potter books are fantasy books about wizards and their wonderful world and about a young boy who falls into a world of magic and adventure. Harry Potter is full of bravery and is one of the best characters I have ever had the pleasure of running into. He is surrounded by good and the bad but he faces it all with courage in his heart and love by his side. Harry Potter Books have turned millions of children into readers and never fail to be exciting, sad, and funny. I have fallen in love with the characters that J.K. Rowling presents in Harry Potter Books and envy them for their unique and realistic personalities. If you haven't read these books you are positively insane and you must immidiately read them or be shot. These are the greatest books ever written and I applaude J.K. for her writting that always ceases to fall past perfection.

Great!
This is the best way to get all the Potter Books to keep and read forever! This is a great idea for gifts for people of all ages.

FANTASTIC!
This series is without a doubt the best books I have ever read. J.K Rowling sure knows how to write fantasy. I can realte to all the characeters and get lost in a magical world where anything can happen. These books have inspired me to write my own fantasy series.Wyhen I read Harry Potter, I feels happy, sad, excited, anxuious,scared and in suspense the whole time. Trust me, this sries is worth buying and is going to be around for a long time. J.K Rowling and Harry rock! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Fans of Lemony Snicket and newcomers to his gleefully ghastly Series ofUnfortunate Events will be elated to discover this boxed gift set of the firstthree books in hardcover: The Bad Beginning, The Reptile Room, andThe Wide Window. While it's true that the events that unfold in Snicket'snovels are bleak, and things never turn out as you'd hope, these delightful,funny, linguistically playful books are reminiscent of Roald Dahl, CharlesDickens, and Edward Gorey. After they get their paws on this boxed set, there isno question that young readers will want to read the continuing unluckyadventures of the three Baudelaire orphans. (Ages 9 and older) --KarinSnelson ... Read more

Reviews (100)

A Box of Unfortunate Events: The Trouble Begins (Books 1-3:
Dear Reader,
This series is about three children: Violet, Klaus, and Sunny Bauldiare. The books are filled with misery and woe, the children are always followed by misfortune and a crook by the name of Count Olaf. He is always after the Bauldiares enormous fortune, and somehow never seems to get a firm grip, just like you couldn't grab a stick of melting butter with your bare hand. The children (orphans, which we are bound to call them) always find a way to escape the scraggly grip of Count Olaf... The first book started as the three soon to be orphans were walking along the beach examining strange specimens that got washed up on the shoreline. When a strange figure came up to them, it turns out that it was Mr. Poe, the Bauldiares bank manager. This started all of the childrens' misery: the fact that an enormous fire had destroyed their home, and their parents... This has been just the beginning of the first book. There are currently 13 books, where misfortune and Count Olaf follow the poor Bauldiares, trying to get control over the fortune and the their lives.The books are very negative, so I personally don't recommend them for smaller children, but they are good, if your heart doesn't melt in the midst of them. Do the orphans escape Olaf, or do they lose their fortune, and their lives. To find out, read the Series of Unfortunate Events.

A Teacher's Review
As a teacher, I am constantly looking for the newest and biggest book to read to my students. During my travels, I came across a book entitled "The Bad Beginning" by Lemony Snickett. I decided to take a chance and purchase the book. I sat down at home and read the entire book in about two and a half hours, and it was one of the most enjoyable stories that I had read in a long time! I tried the book out on the kids, and they just ate it up. The students couldn't get enough of Violet, Klaus and Sunny Baudelaire....and to be quite honest, neither could I!! Soon after reading the first book, I purchased books two and three, and not to my surprise they were just as good! I again read these books to the students, and they again ate them up!!! Unfortunately, by the time we had finished the third book, the school year was over. However, I went on to finish my collection by getting books four through nine. I love these stories! The black humor that they contain should be that of a Coen Brothers film. The kids got every joke, and they totally fell in love with Snickett's radically original storytelling - explaining things in detail, translating Sunny's baby talk, and giving hilarious backstory. My peers often make fun of me because I read so much children's literature, but I have recommended these books to all of my friends. I even believe that these books are more interesting and fun to read than the Harry Potter series...but thats just me! I would recommend this book to parents of third and fourth grade students (it might be a little unfullfilling to the fiercly loyal fifth grade Harry Potter crowd) and also to adults who are unfamiliar with the series. A truly remarkable find and the most entertaining children's novels since Roald Dahl. Summer's the perfect time to pick these up!

Great Books!
I've bought these books, and I've recieved them in a short period of time. They are interesting to read. It's hard to see these children struggle, and face all the sorrow that comes their way. I thought I would not like these, because they were supposed to be depressing. If you want a series you really get involved in, try these. This collection is by far entertaining, and detailed. I can't wait to buy the next box set!

From Bad to Worse: The Story of the Baudelaire Orphans
When I first started reading this series of books I was set back a little because these stories are not written in the style of typical children's books. These stories are dark, and the evil characters are truly evil. A number of reviewers have panned this series because they are dark, and because they often push the boundaries of what some of us may find acceptable for children to read. It is because of the dark imagery that I have typically recommended that age 9 be a minimum age. Some children may be unprepared for these books until later.

In the first three books in this series we learn that the three Baudelaire children, Sunny, the baby, Klaus, her brother, and Violet, a young teen, have lost their parents in a terrible fire. The children are sent to live with their evil uncle Olaf, who has ulterior motives yet to be revealed in later books. The children quickly learn how evil he is, and ultimately escape. They next go to live with their uncle Montgomery Montgomery in "The Reptile Room," only to be forced to move on again. In "The Wide Window" the children live with an aunt who is afraid of everything, only to ultimately be forced to move on again, continually chased by the evil Count Olaf in a variety of disguises.

Book 11 in this series is soon to come out, and the original plan was for there to be 12 books. These books are like potato chips. Once you start one and find it intriguing, you will want to keep reading. If you do not like the first book, plan to stop with the first.

This series is highly creative and many children 9 and older find them enjoyable. My children read them as teens and loved them. They did think they were different and unusual, and since they could not explain why I read them myself. They are different and unusual, but they also introduce children to situations that have occurred to children in the real world. A good way to introduce scary subjects.

The first three books = Set-up....
Well, I'll admit its been a while since I've read the first three books of the series. They are are my least favorite in the series. Because in my opinion they get much better after those three. Especially after book 5. However, since this is a 1-3 box set, I MUST review these specific ones right now, so here goes.

Book One: The Bad Beginning - Well in book one we our introduced to the Baudelaire's, they are quite happy children that live with their parents in a large house, and are very rich. These children include: Violet, a 14 year old whom is a genius inventor, and will tie her up when in the midst of inventing, Klaus, her 12 year old brother whom is a genius of books, hecan't get enough of them, and is quite often a well of imformation, and last but not least Sunny, a small baby whom is still crawling, can't really talk yet except with made up words, but she has for EXTREMELY long & sharp teeth.

Now, so the story goes, the Baudelare children were playing on the beach, when they became orphans(wont tell you how), this is where there misfortunes began, because they must live with a gardian now, a relative or something. Well, they end up living with Count Olaf, and really I don't want to tell you more of that book.

NOTICE: If you DON'T want ANYTHING in the books after book one spoiled DON'T the next to descriptions of the books, skip them and read my summary.

Book Two: The Reptile Room - In this book the Baudelaire's have escaped Count Olaf and Mr. Poe has placed them in the care of Dr. Montgomery Montgomery, or their Uncle Monty. He is a man whom studies reptiles and has many interesting and dangerous reptiles. The Baudelaire's begin to feel that they will actually enjoy living there too. But is it safe for them to get comfortable?

Book Three: The Wide Window - After they had to leave Uncle Monty's house(I wont say why), Mr. Poe has placed them in their care of their paranoid grammar obsessed Aunt Josephine. A woman who's husband died a couple years back and wont use stoves in fear that she set the house on fire or something like that. Her house "barely" sits on a ledge next to lake Lachreymose by Domocles Dock. The Baudelaire's don't enjoy living there very much, but how long will it last anyways?

Well, I would say that "The Series of Unfortunate Events" is for those who are morbid at heart. These books have an extremely morbid sense of humor. But it is a great sense of humor, may take some time to get used to. And even though book 4 is the lowest rated on Amazon.com, I'd say that is where the books really hit their stride, in book for. That's where I really began to enjoy the books and their unique sense of humor. So whether you are young or old, though I think older people may enjoy these a little more cause they can understand them better(and most the people I know who've read them have been at least my age, 19yrs), you'll probably still enjoy them, they're fun books. And they have some things to teach, even though they don't seem like it.

God Bless & *enjoy* ~Amy ... Read more

Amazon.com

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry first published The Little Prince in 1943, only a year before his Lockheed P-38 vanished over the Mediterranean during a reconnaissance mission. More than a half century later, this fable of love and loneliness has lost none of its power. The narrator is a downed pilot in the Sahara Desert, frantically trying to repair his wrecked plane. His efforts are interrupted one day by the apparition of a little, well, prince, who asks him to draw a sheep. "In the face of an overpowering mystery, you don't dare disobey," the narrator recalls. "Absurd as it seemed, a thousand miles from all inhabited regions and in danger of death, I took a scrap of paper and a pen out of my pocket." And so begins their dialogue, which stretches the narrator's imagination in all sorts of surprising, childlike directions.

The Little Prince describes his journey from planet to planet, each tiny world populated by a single adult. It's a wonderfully inventive sequence, which evokes not only the great fairy tales but also such monuments of postmodern whimsy as Italo Calvino's Invisible Cities. And despite his tone of gentle bemusement, Saint-Exupéry pulls off some fine satiric touches, too. There's the king, for example, who commands the Little Prince to function as a one-man (or one-boy) judiciary:

I have good reason to believe that there is an old rat living somewhere on my planet. I hear him at night. You could judge that old rat. From time to time you will condemn him to death. That way his life will depend on your justice. But you'll pardon him each time for economy's sake. There's only one rat.

Reviews (335)

Magical, mystical, majestical
This review refers to the T.V.F Cuiffe translation which I was unable to find on Amazon. I don't know anything about the Howard translation.

This amazing book was written supposedly for children and it reads like a children's story. It's also beautifully illustrated. However, it meant much more to me when I reread it as an adult than as a child. I could say the book is an alegory and that it contains much symbolic value but it would debase it's melancholy beauty to attach academic terms to it.

The story is about the narrator, a pilot just like the author, being stuck in the Sahara waiting to repair his plane. He meets the little prince who hails from a tiny planet that's not much bigger than him. The book relates his solitary existence at his home, his travels through the other asteroids, inhabited by single individuals such as the Geographer (which can be seen as archetypes) to his arrival on earth culminating in the relationship with the pilot.

Again, saying that the book is about life, loneliness, love, friendship and finding one's true nature would be missing the point (one which the book beautifully mentions through the mouth of a fox) that the most important things are not said in words. The book has no "themes" as such but it's a fully integrated work. The pictures are as important as the text and contain so much kindness, humour and irony (as does the work itself) that this work is an absolute must.

If you tame me...
Something confuses me about "The Little Prince". Here we have a small simple tale that takes about half an hour to read. It is quiet and philosophical. The plot, such as it is, follows a the Little Prince and his petite adventures. The Little Prince loves a rose very much, but he must travel about the planets to better understand this love. The book is so lyrical in its simplicity that it's no wonder that it's often given to graduating students each and every year. More so than "Winnie-the-Pooh" or "Oh the Places You'll Go", this book encapsulates the world with pinpoint precision.

My confusion? Why has this book been repeatedly ruined for kids? Am I the only one who remembers that catastrophe that was, "The Little Prince", an anima television show that played on Nickelodeon in the 1980s? How about the movie, starring Bob Fosse as the snake and Gene Wilder as the fox? How does a book this perfect become so exploited? I can only liken it to other books of its caliber. Like "Alice In Wonderland", the absurd plot elements make the story poignant. And like "Alice" (or the aforementioned Pooh) the book's simple writing is easily "improved" by the adults of the world.

I don't think "The Little Prince" is ideal children's literature, mind you. Kids may humor their parents by listening to it, but when you sit right down and read the book, it is not gripping stuff. The patronizing tone taken about "grown-ups", the Peter Pan-like elements, etc. all combine to make this a book that is ideally for children without actually saying anything to them directly. This is a book for adults but ostensibly for kids. Few children are going to be fooled by this. They'd rather sink their fangs into something a little more along the lines of "Harry Potter" or Lemony Snicket. But it is a piece of children's literature that will last beyond all our lives. This is a classic for the 20th century, and "The Little Prince" fully deserves to take his place amongst the other classic kid characters encompassed in the cannon. It is an outstanding tale of simply loving small.

nothing is lost with time.
One of my absolute favorites.

This book is something you read as a child; it was magical and it held you in ways you could not understand. And there were so many things in it that seemed above your young head. But you think you get them at the time.

You read it again when you're older....

and it's all the more magical.

You understand - completely.

Everyone should read this book at least twice.

ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS EVER!!!!!
I read this book in my 5th grade class last year, and I loved it!!! It was so wonderful and really made you think about life, death, and that the things that are really impoortant are invisable! I REALLY SUGGEST YOU READ THIS BOOK!!! It brings you to thinking about imaginary things that everyone dreams about (that are extremely real in this book). So live your biggest dream and READ THIS BOOK!

The Little Prince...I Don't really like it.
This books is just not my type of book. I did not really get anything from this book because I have to go over the metaphors before I can understand it. Anyways, this book tells the grown ups all over the world that they can still use their imaginations even though they have matured and have a job. This is some connections I heard from Einstein. Einstein said that Imaginations are more important than knowledge because Imagination creates knowledge. This book made me read it even though I wasn't very interested to it because it makes me think deeply of some words that are hard to understand and while I read the book, it reminded me of my childhood because I use to use my imaginations, ofcourse, probably all the kids use their imaginations. Now that I have grown, I forgot about imagining because I've grown up a lot. Just like in the book, when the little prince was growing up, he is losing his imaginations. ... Read more

Book Description

Read by Jim Dale
8 hours 17 minutes, 6 cassettes

Harry Potter has no idea how famous he is.That's because he's being raised by his miserable aunt and uncle who are terrified Harry will learn that he's really a wizard, just as his parents were.But everything changes when Harry is summoned to attend an infamous school for wizards, and he begins to discover some clues about his illustrious birthright.From the surprising way he is greeted by a lovable giant, to the unique curriculum and colorful faculty at his unusual school, Harry finds himself drawn deep inside a mystical world he never knew existed and closer to his own noble destiny. ... Read more

Reviews (4768)

A great kids' book that appeals to all ages.
I'm not much into kids' books but when my mom brought home Harry Potter, I remembered it from the NY Times bestseller list. In bed one night I flipped open to the third chapter and after five minutes, reverted back to chapter one. After 11 years of torture living with his foster family (Uncle Vernon, Aunt Petunia and cousin Dudley), Harry is shocked to learn that he is actually a world famous wizard! When he was only an infant, a powerful, evil sorcerer killed his parents but was unable to destroy him. All that's left of the encounter is a lightening shaped scar on his forhead. The incident having driven the sorcerer into exile, Harry is a celebrity everwher he goes, from diagon alley(for school supplies) to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. At Hogwarts, Harry befriends other schoolmates as they learn the arts of magic. While trying to keep his grades in check, Harry learns of a plot to undermine the scools headmaster. Harry risks his reputation and life as he does his best to get to the bottom of the situation. A captivating read, The Sorcerer's Stone contains the imagination of Roald Dahl, the magic of J.R.R. Tolkien, and the humor and suspense J.K. Rawling throws in to even it out.

An exciting,mysterious fantasy...
I strongly encourage people to read this wonderfully written fantasy. When I first started to read the Harry Potter books,I just loved it so much,I had to read more. I'm now through the fourth book (Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) and waiting for the fifth book in the Harry Potter series. This particular book (Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone) is fantastic.It is about a boy called Harry Potter who lives with his aunt and uncle(Petunia and Vernon)...also with his huge (fat) cousin , Dudley. He starts to get letters from Hogwarts, but, his uncle Vernon refuses Harry to open the envelope which contains Harry's Hogwarts letter. One day letters start pouring inside the house. Harry grabs one but fails to open it.Soon Harry,Petunia,Vernon,and Dudley are in an old house on the sea.The game keeper of Hogwarts comes and takes Harry to Diagon Ally to buy his Hogwarts school supplies. Then Harry takes the Hogwarts express to Hogwarts.He then gets sorted into Gryffindor House(out of Hufflepuff,Ravenclaw,and Slitherin houses).Then he sets off on the most thrilling adventure you could ever imagine.This book will make you sweat as you read it.It is the best book you could ever read!

The One Book that Started It All: the Harry Potter-Mania
Harry Potter, a fatherless and motherless boy, has never seen a unicorn, has never heard of wizards or witches, and has not a clue what Quidditch means. The only thing that Harry has ever experience is the miserable life that the Dursley's have given him for the first ten years of his life. But everything changes when letters from no one start arriving at the Dursleys addressed to him. Also on the same day that Harry turns eleven years old, a giant of a man arrives at the place where Harry and the Dursleys are staying and tells Harry that he is a wizard and that him, Harry, has been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
At Hogwarts, Harry does not only meet new friends like Ron Weasly or Hermoine Granger, or enemies like Draco Malfoy, or learns about magic and how to fly on a broom. He also come face to face with Lord Voldemort, his life-time enemy and the person that killed his parents and tried to killed him but only managed to give him a scar on his forehead in the shape of a lighting bolt. But is Harry ready to survive this new life that has been hidden for him for a long time, and is he ready to take hold of the destiny that awaits for him...from now on?

And once "The Sorcerer's Stone" is picked up, can it be put down? Well, I know I could not do it. The world created by JKR is the most amazing and fantastical trance. I loved every single word found in this amazing tale of modern fantasy. Harry Potter is a true hero because is he not only a wizard but a teenager with human characteristics.

Great for kids, teens, geezers and fogies
It's not often that a new series comes out that captures its audience in such a magnificent way as Harry Potter. This series has influenced many other writers, including Stephen King! It has helped children to bond with adults in a fun and magical way. It has introduced a new world to all who read.

In the first book of this series, we are introduced to many of the main characters that play a crucial role in Harry's life. We travel to Hogwarts, a school of Magic where truth be told, I think many of us would like to attend. We meet deep characters, some good and some bad and we learn of magical villages that can be accessed only by those "in the know."

If you haven't done so already, make the HP series part of your library and share it with your children, friends and family.

A Thrilling (Broomstick) Ride
It's not often that a new series comes out that captures its audience in such a magnificent way as Harry Potter. This series has influenced many other writers, including Stephen King! It has helped children to bond with adults in a fun and magical way. It has introduced a new world to all who read.

In the first book of this series, we are introduced to many of the main characters that play a crucial role in Harry's life. We travel to Hogwarts, a school of Magic where truth be told, I think many of us would like to attend. We meet deep characters, some good and some bad and we learn of magical villages that can be accessed only by those "in the know."

If you haven't done so already, make the HP series part of your library and share it with your children, friends and family. ... Read more

Amazon.com

For a little one who is reluctant to go to bed, sometimes a silly bookis just the ticket. And when it comes to silly books, Sandra Boynton is theundisputed queen. In The Going to Bed Book, an ark full of animalswatches the sun go down and then prepares for bed. They take a bath ("in one bigtub"), find pajamas, brush their teeth, do exercises up on deck (imagine anelephant jumping rope, a moose lifting weights, and a pig doing handstands), andfinally say good night.

The moon is high. The sea is deep.
They rock
and rock
and rock
to sleep.

Reviews (56)

A Fun Story for Bedtime
This colorful board book from Sandra Boynton's is a bedtime treat! An assortment of expressive animals gets ready for bed aboard a giant boat. Boynton amusingly shows then bathing, dressing, brushing teeth ("With some on top and some beneath, they brush and brush and brush their teeth."), and exercising together.

It closes with the animals settling down for the night: "They rock and rock and rock to sleep." Graced by Boynton's well-known illustrations and rhythmic poetry, this is a great book for infants and toddlers alike.

The Sun has Set not Long Ago
Great bed time book. The rhymes are fun, and it is a fantastically silly story. My husband and daughter and I have all had this book memorized since she was 6 months old ( she is two and 1/2 now). We love to recite it to one another, and have had to have two copies of the book (ah that teething stage was hard, she chewed right through everything.) We all love Sandra Boynton, she is a reliable read and a lot of fun.

A rescue item for a tired PARENT
Our son has loved this book from when he was 6 months to now, at 14 months. The story is very loosely based on a Biblical tale (didn't anyone get the Ark reference?) and simply describes what every child can do before bed, brushing teeth, getting changed, a little play, and bedtime. In addition, we tell the story in two languages and ask him to point out certain animals or to make a teeth brushing motion, which he does with increased accuracy. I recommend it to all the families in my mother's group!

Our FAVORITE "Night-Night" book...
We LOVE Sandra Boynton, and this book is our favorite. My 2 yr. old son knows all the words and the hand motions we've made up to go along w/ it. We laugh and read just about every night before prayers. It's a must have for your toddler.

Another Classic Boynton!
Next to Goodnight Moon, this is our top choice for a bedtime read. The text is lulling & the drawings are adorable.
The animals are on a boat (some say this is confusing to children - it is supposed to be silly!) and they are getting ready for bed. They go through the usuals - bathtime, jammies, teeth brushing...with a little goofiness thrown in - a little late night exercise! Just enough for a little grin before settling down.
Classic Boyton!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

We hold this truth to be self-evident: farting makes kids laugh. Walter,an apologetic-looking dog adopted from the pound, passes gas morning,noon, and night, no matter what he eats, whether it's a 25-pound bag oflow-fart dog biscuits, cat food, or fried chicken. On the bright side,"If Uncle Irv let one slip, he just went and stood near Walter." WhenFather reaches the limit of his patience with Walter's flatulence, hedecides the pooch is once again pound-bound, despite Betty and Billy'spleading. Poor Walter knows his days are numbered and "He resolved tohold in his farts forever." That very night, two burglars break intoWalter's family's house, and (you can see where this is going) Waltergasses the burglars with a "hideous cloud" that forces them to droptheir loot and run into the clutches of the police officers, "chokingand gasping for air." The next morning Father and Mother discoverWalter has saved the day--or at least their silverware andVCR. "And so the family learned to live with Walter, the hero dog. Andthat is the end of our tail." (Or is it? Fans will be pleased todiscover the next book Walter the Farting Dog:Trouble at the Yard Sale.) Audrey Colman's highly stylizedillustrations, imbued with a surreal, Monty Pythonesque collage look,are as absurdly comical as this silly story that is purely powered bynatural gas. (Ages 5 to 8) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (74)

A Real Gas!!
I ran across this book one day while looking through the shelves of children's books at a local bookstore several weeks ago, and I still chuckle to myself every time I think about it. Even though my son is only 2 and a bit young for the text, I plan to purchase the book and keep it for myself until he's old enough to appreciate it!!! I couldn't stop laughing the entire time I was reading the book, and the illustrations are amazing and captivating!!! Anyone with a sense of humor should treat themselves to this wonderfully hilarious book or give it as a gift to someone who could use a serious laugh!!

Hilarious!
I know a gassy little girl who loves this book. She and I just read it in the book store and she was bawling with laughter. She farts a great deal, so she really identified with the character. Even though I didn't buy the book, she can't stop mentioning Walter, so I guess I'm going to have to purchase it for her! It had a wonderful moral, fascinating and fun illustrations, and was hilarious. I was raised with discomfort about farting, and I find that I don't feel as well-off as those kids who just farted and said "Pardon" without a blush (nor were those kids ever teased by other children as long as the gassy individual fessed up with a note of pride.) I think anybody who objects to the farting theme is being far too uptight. Maybe they just need to pass some wind.

Laughed until I cried
The title caught my eye at the book store and when I started to read this book I laughed until I cried! I kept snorting with laughter right there in the store. Walter is an average dog with an unfortunate problem.....gas. This book is sure to delight all who read it. The adults(?) I work with also got a kick out of the illustrations(we played Find the Spider). It also has such a sweet message...we all have a place in this world, a talent all our own. A wonderful book that is sure to delight all readers.

Funny book with a great message!
It really is a cute book with a good theme...besides farting, that is. It's all about accepting folks as they are, the not-so-good traits along with the good. The dad in the story threatens to get rid of Walter unless the kids can resolve his unfortunate gas problem. They change his food and everything, but the poor dog just can't help it. Just as the father is about to give them the final ultimatum, Walter saves the family home from robbers, and the dad realizes that he really is a good dog, smell and all! It's hilarious and heart-warming all at the same time.

My 6 and 4 year olds loved the book. Yes, they laughed over the dog's tendency to pass gas, but they also understood the underlying premise of unconditional love and acceptance. Their manners have not suffered any from reading this book!

inappropriateness agreed
I have seen this book everywhere! As I am looking for a book to help teach my (3 year old) manners. I have not purchased it, nor will I. I cannot see how using toilet humor encourages any manners in the preschool set or otherwise. Preschoolers are notorious mimics! Someone mention tolerance, but even that should not be relegated to farting! I could only see how this books shock humor would only be appreciate by adults, or older children with an understanding (the difference between what is acceptable and what is not). Hopefully ... I will soon discover a book more appropriate. ... Read more

Book Description

Where are Baby's hands?
Under the bubbles!

Where are baby's eyes?
Under her hat!

Karen Katz's adorable babies play peekaboo in this delightful interactive book. The sturdy format and easy-to-lift flaps are perfect for parents and children to share. ... Read more

Reviews (64)

This adorable interactive book teaches body parts and more!
Every once in a while, I come across a book that appeals to the adult in me, because it's educational, artistic, amusing or perhaps all of the above, but what fascinates me is when my son discovers the real value in a work, and teaches me a thing or two along the way. To adults "Where is the Baby's Belly Button" written and illustrated by Karen Katz appears to be a simple 14-page book that teaches body parts, but to children it's much more.

This nifty little board book is essentially a peek-a-boo book with flaps. It measures approximately 8 ¼" x 7 ½" x ½ ", and is constructed of cardboard with heavy card stock for the flaps. The images are simply illustrated, yet brightly colored with creatively contrasted backgrounds that produce interest. The text appears on the left side of the book with bold, solid colored backdrops that emphasis the large black printing, and compliment the illustrations on the opposing page. The writing consists of short, four or five word sentences, such as, "Where are baby's eyes?" The reader lifts the flap and it says, "Under the hat." The picture shows a baby hiding under a hat, and when the flap is lifted the baby's face is revealed. She is pointing to her eyes.

"Where is the Baby's Belly Button" has been one of my son's most requested books for a year now; he's nearly two-years old. He lovingly refers to this book as the "baby" book, and he has taught me that he has learned where his eyes, mouth, belly button, feet, and hands are, in addition to understanding the meaning of the words, hat, cup, shirt, cat, bubbles and WHERE. The question, "Where?" comes out of his mouth probably 20 or 30 times everyday, and I am certain it's because of this book. I wish the flaps were made of a heavier card stock as they have become creased over time, which is expected with use, but also preventable with a heavier stock. This book has been a huge hit, and one I haven't gotten tired of reading over and over again. I recommend this book for one-year olds and up as the interactive feature, (lifting of the flaps) is too advanced for younger babies, however an infant would probably find the images fascinating all the same.

Great fun for baby and parents!
This is a nice sturdy book with colorful drawings of babies with some part of their body hidden. Each page asks, "Where is baby's ...?" Toddlers delight in lifting the flaps to find the hidden pictures. The pictures are bright and cute with eye-catching fabric and wallpaper patterns. A very attractive book, and perfect for that stage when toddlers become fascinated with their belly buttons! My 17 month old has really enjoyed this book. It can be very helpful in getting kids to name body parts, and it's fun for both the baby and the parents to read. Highly recommended.

Keep book out of baby's reach
My 16 mo old daughter has loved this book since she was 12 mo., but I have to keep it out of her reach . She loves to lift the flaps but has now been tearing the flaps off when she reads the book on her own. She is only allowed to read it in my lap where I can stop her from ripping the flap off.

Best book
This was one of the first books given to our son. We loved the cute pictures and wording of the book. Our son is now 15 months old and still loves to find the different things on the baby. He especially likes Where are baby's hands....under the bubbles...maybe it is the way I change my voice when reading to him. This is a must have...along with all the other books by Karen Katz

great
My 8 month old daughter laughs everytime we read this book. I bring it with us when we go out - I know that it will make her happy! ... Read more

Reviews (25)

WONDERFUL BOOK
I BOUGHT THIS BOOK FOR MY DAUGHTER WHEN SHE WAS 5 YEARS OLD. SHE HAS ALWAYS BEEN CURIOUS ABOUT HER BODY AND I HAVE ALWAYS EXPLAINED IT TO HER THROUGH A MEDICAL ASPECT. WHEN I WAS GROWING UP I HAD NO INFORMATION WHATSOEVER ABOUT MY BODY AND WHAT WAS GOING TO HAPPEN. I FELT WHEN I HAD MY GIRL SHE SHLD BE PREPARED FOR THE CHANGES. THIS BOOK WITH IT'S WONDERFULLY INFOMATIVE AND PLAIN LANGUAGE WAS JUST WHAT WE NEEDED. NOW THAT SHE IS 11 AND ON THE VERGE OF STARTING HER PERIOD, SHE ISN'T IN THE DARK ABOUT IT AND SHE SEEMS MUCH MORE CONFIDENT WHEN WE DISCUSS IT.
I'M AM VERY GLAD THERE ARE BOOKS OF THIS TYPE ON THE MARKET FOR YOUNG GIRLS TODAY. I WOULD RATHER MY GIRL TALK TO ME ABOUT THIS SUBJECT THAN TO GO TO GIRLFRIENDS OF HER OWN AGE WHO DON'T HAVE THE EXPERIENCE OR INFORMATION.

Excellent, Wonderful However you want to put it.
Every young girl who is worried or just curious about her period should have this book. It explains what happens to your body during puberty, the what ifs and freaquently asked questions from many girls.Parents- if you are looking for a book on this type of thing, this is the book you are looking for. "It's A Girl Thing" by Mavis Jukes is great, too.

Great for teens and pre-teens
This book has definitely helped me understand and feel comfortable with having my period. I didn't find this book inappropriate at all. It tells you about normal stuff that should be happening. I, personally, would recommend it to all pre-teens and teens!

Wow! Too Much!
My mom bought this book for me when I turned 12, and we looked through it together. Wow, I could not believe what I had read! It was way too innapropriate for pre-teens. I would reccomend "The Care and Keeping of You". By American Girl.

Best Book For Girl's Afraid To Ask!
I went to the library today, and my mom picked up this book. I read it today, and it answered all the questions that I was always afraid to ask! Every mom out there should get this for their daughter, no matter what they say! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Now, the classic books from the library of the Hogwarts School ofWitchcraft and Wizardry--Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them andQuidditch Through the Ages--are available in hardcover in a sturdy boxedgift set. (These books are written by J.K. Rowling herself under the pseudonymsNewt Scamander and Kennilworthy Whisp.) Finally, Muggles will have the chance todiscover where the Quintaped lives, what the Puffskein eats, and why it is bestnot to leave milk out for a Knarl. The Quidditch textbook explains where theGolden Snitch came from, how the Bludgers came into existence, and why theWigtown Wanderers have pictures of meat cleavers on their clothes. Both books,designed to look like Harry Potter's actual, used Hogwarts textbooks, featuresilly scribblings from Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Proceeds from the sale of thisgift set will go to improving and saving the lives of children around the world.Harry Potter fans, rejoice! (All ages) ... Read more

Reviews (308)

If you cannot go to Hogwarts, let Hogwarts come to you
Although not a necessary addition to everyone's personal Harry Potter library, these two little books are quite interesting and a lot of fun to read. They are both quite short, totaling less than sixty five pages apiece, but they are wonderfully put together and made to look like copies of real books from the Hogwarts library. None other than Albus Dumbledore himself writes the introduction to each book, explaining how and why these books are being made available to Muggles for the first time and explaining how proceeds from each book go directly to a fund, set up in Harry Potter's name by Comic Relief UK and author J.K. Rowling, which is dedicated to help children in need throughout the world.

Quidditch Through the Ages, penned by Quidditch expert Kennilworthy Whisp explains the ultimate sport of wizards from top to bottom, giving the centuries-old history of the game as it has evolved. First and foremost, he explains why wizards and witches employ brooms to fly on in the first place, and then he proceeds to give an account of the changing rules of the game from its early days of primitive baskets set atop poles to the standardized and world-sweeping format of today. Of most significance and interest is the story of how the Golden Snitch was introduced into the sport. Different strategies and maneuvers are named and explained, the thirteen Quidditch teams of England and Ireland are identified, some of the seven hundred types of fouls are explained, and some of the most memorable games and individual performances are detailed (including the Tutshill Tornados' Roderick Plumpton's amazing snag of the Golden Snitch only three and a half seconds into a game back in 1921).

Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them by Newt Scamander is a compendium of all the fantastic beasts currently known, from the Acromantula to the Yeti. Prior to the actual listings, Scamander explains the criteria by which some beings have come to be labeled beasts (it's more complicated than you might think) and devotes some time to the obvious question as to why Muggles seem to spot such creatures only rarely. Each listing also carries the classification assigned each beast by the Ministry of Magic, which is important information given that these beasts range from the harmless to the controllable to the incredibly dangerous. Along with fascinating descriptions of the animals we have already encountered in the Harry Potter books, there are some real jewels of information included here, solving several Muggle mysteries such as that of the true identity of the Loch Ness Monster. Fantastic Beasts is a copy of Harry Potter's own personal copy of the book, and its margins are dotted with little notes ranging from the mundane to the bitingly funny written by Harry, Ron, as well as Hermione. Now, if we could only get our hands on A History of Hogwarts; I'm sure Hermione has a copy they can use for the printing of a Muggle edition.

Get your Harry fix and support a great cause!
Although the wait for 2002 and "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" is going to be a hard one for a lot of people, these two brief but fun books should fill the gap admirably as well as supporting a great cause. Released for the first time (well, to the general Muggle public), here's two of Harry Potter's schoolbooks, "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" and "Quidditch Through the Ages."

Slim and quick reads, these books nevertheless are a great deal of fun. "Quidditch" provides us with a brief evolution and history of everyone's favorite broomstick-riding sport, with rules of play, focuses on top world teams, and the revelation that Americans don't really play Quidditch on the world-class level, preferring an American variation called "Quodpot." "Fantastic Beasts" is a brisk and humorous guide to mythical, er, totally real monsters and magical creatures from the Acromantula (giant spider) to the Yeti. This book is Harry Potter's own personal copy, and is enlivened with Harry and Ron's writing and jokes in the margins of the book. Both books feature a wonderfully dry-humored introduction by Albus Dumbledore. Both books are written with a friendly and light sense of humor that's delightful to read and makes great background for the serious Harry Potter fan. Quidditch team Chudley Cannons' motto is said to have been changed from "We shall conquer" to "Let's all just keep our fingers crossed and hope for the best."

The most important reason to buy these books, however, is to support Comic Relief UK, the British relief organization set up to help children in the disadvantaged countries of the world. Although we can't save the world from manticores or score the winning goal in a Quidditch World Cup match, we can still be heroes by supporting this great cause.

Warning
If your children are Harry Potter fans and read these books the odds are very good that they will throw quotes and 'facts' from these books at you at every opportunity.

These books are very short and filled with information that fills in and enhances the novels of the Harry Potter series. I have found that the information within them rounds out Rowlings magical universe.

If you are looking for a novel however these are not for you. They are reference books describing some of the magical creatures in the Harry Potter series or explaining the origns and rules of Quiddich. Good easy fun.

I would also like to add that these books would be ideal for a child who does not like to read but likes the H.P movies. They just might entice the non reader to pick up the H.P novels.

Two words? Must have.
Harry Potter is a very popular series, and for any fan of the series, this is a must have. It will give you more information about the world of "Hogwarts" and you will feel good about yourself since it's also for a good cause, i only hope J.K. Rowling will write more of these. Books, Movies, and these schoolbooks i consider the official harry potter merchandise, and then Harry Potter themed candy, figures and such is nice also. I have both of these books, and i read them all the time. It's a good price too. I hope you purchase them, have fun reading!

While You Wait.
This is a great "While you wait for book 6" collection. It has the spirit of the Harry Potter books.

The writing is as good as the harry potter books. but the content is not.

For breaif looks into the history of the Harry Potter boos they are great. Particularly for the history of monsters. Hoever id you are looking for a solid READ this is not the book collection for you. ... Read more

Book Description

Trixie, Daddy, and Knuffle Bunny take a trip to the neighborhood Laundromat. But the exciting adventure takes a dramatic turn when Trixie realizes somebunny was left behind… Using a combination of muted black-and-white photographs and expressive illustrations, this stunning book tells a brilliantly true-to-life tale about what happens when Daddy's in charge and things go terribly,