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

Approx. 1.5 hours
2 cassettes

When ten-year-old India Opal Buloni moves to Naomi, Florida, with her preacher father, she doesn't know what to expect.She is lonely at first--that is until she meets Winn-Dixie, a stray dog who helps her make some unusual friends.Because of Winn-Dixie, Opal begins to let go of some of her sadness and finds she has a whole lot to be thankful for.


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Reviews (351)

Winn-Dixie, A Real Winner
A story of friendship, loneliness, and sadness. A sweet girl, named India Opal Buloni just moved to Naomi, Florida with her father, a southern baptist minister. She comes to town without a single friend or a mother when a dog, named Winn-Dixie enters her life.

Anyone who has ever had a dog they love will appreciate this story. He is smart, sits through church services, and takes on very human-like characteristics. Whenever he gets happy, he opens his mouth and shows an endearing smile.

With help from her new pet, India Opal makes many unique friends in her small, quiet town. She befriends a librarian who has candy that tastes like strawberries, rootbeer, and sorrow. She meets up with an ex-criminal who went to prison for playing his music in the street. She visits an old woman every day who all of the town kids think is a witch.

Although written for a younger audience, I would strongly recommend this book for anyone. This is a Newberry Honor book divided into many small chapters,each with an endearing story. Everyone is sure to enjoy Because of Winn-Dixie.

Need a good read...
A story soon to be a classic and a must read for anyone who has ever felt lost in the world. This story is about a young girl and her father. India Opal and her father the preacher move to a new town in northern Florida. She has trouble making friends and her father keeps himself emotionally distanced from her. He asks her to go to the grocery store and she goes but comes home with something that wasn't on the list...a dog that she named "Winn-Dixie," and it is because of Winn-Dixie that her life starts to make changes.

This book is an enjoyable read for any age. The author has done a wonderful job of setting the location of where the story is taking place, whom the character's are and gives the reader the feeling of being in the story. The text is not hard to read but some of the dialect could be difficult. There is a bit of understatement in the book that may be hard for younger reads to understand but not enough to discourage reading, the writing style is one that fits the story line.

On a personal level I highly recommend this book to anyone who has ever felt lost in the world and needed a friend. Having grown up moving around in the southern states I truly connected to this book and if nothing else this is a great book about a girl and her dog.

A ok
I recommend this book to anyone 13 or older because it's a really good book about friendship. For example, when the pet employ asked her if Winn-Dixie was her pet, Opal said, "He's not a pet he's my best friend." Also I recommend it to any one who loves dogs because Winn-Dixie is in many parts of the story. For example, when Winn-Dixie is in the store making a mess, the manager said that he was going to call the pound. Opal said to the manger," Wait that's my dog. Don't call the pound." She said to protect the dog from going to the pound. In conclusion, if you like a book about friendship and animals, this is the book to read.

Touching and uplifting!
I first heard of "Because of Winn-Dixie" several years ago, when Kate DiCamillo was interviewed on NPR soon after its release. Having lived in FL for many years and being well aware of the Winn-Dixie supermarkets, I suppose the idea of the story and its name intrigued me. I purchased the book some time ago, but as with many other book collectors, I set it aside and didn't get around to reading it till just recently. Although it's written for children, I must say it has appeal for all ages! I was deeply moved by the sweet story, and especially Opal, who someone else expressed my thoughts exactly when they likened her to Scout, from "To Kill a Mockingbird"(my all-time favorite story). She obviously is wise far beyond her years in the way she brings together the diverse personalities and ages of the people she meets in her new home, a small FL town called Naomi. Opal unconditionally loves her funny, quirky mongrel of a dog, and we certainly can't help but love him as well! We should all be so lucky as to someday meet such a gentle spirit as Opal and her Winn-Dixie. My highest recommendations for this touching and very uplifting little gem!

I Almost Shed A Tear
Opal has just relocated, with her father, Preacher, to Florida. One day, while in the local Winn-Dixie, she finds a big, ugly dog. She names the dog Winn-Dixie. When she gets home, her father is disappointed, but reluctantly agrees to let Opal keep the unusual dog. Winn-Dixie helps Opal make new friends in Florida, and it's Because of Winn-Dixie that she finds happiness in her new town. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Walter makes his third appearance in yet another unapologetically silly picture book, this one dedicated to "everyone who's ever felt misjudged or misunderstood." The story begins when animal gas expert Professor Kompressor pays a visit to Walter's family, equipped with a contraption that looks like a cross between a vacuum cleaner and an old phonograph: "I understand your dog has a farting disorder," he says. At first it seems as if the professor's prescription of powders and potions is working, but one day, young Billy and Betty see Walter floating like a helium balloon over the trees, so full of pent-up gas he has become airborne. Unable to release his gas, the unfortunate dog floats over hill and dale for days and days. The formula for these books requires the much-maligned Walter to redeem his gaseous self by saving the day (he gasses out burglars in the first one and helps catch bank robbers in the second). Here, even more absurdly, he saves millions of butterflies from a freezing windstorm by letting rip a warm cloud of air that melts the frost off their wings.Colorful, crisp, almost three-dimensional art, generated with a digital painting and collage technique, gives the book a bizarre, sophisticated style that both complements and elevates the cheap laughs. (Ages 6 to 9) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Very cute!
My 2 1/2 year-old daughter and I love this book! The illustrations are bright and fun and the story really is adorable! It's a fun, imaginative story and it's gotten us hooked on the Walter series.

Funny, different, and a little out there!
I read this book and think Walter is very cute. I like the idea of using the farting dog to interest kids in reading. Kids enjoy farts, so why wouldn't they want to read about them? lol. The illustrations are bright, colorful, and the people in them have a photo quality. There are spiders hidden on every page and half the fun is trying to find them. The storyline is more than a little out there, but kids might buy into it more readily than adults. All in all, good book and I'd definitely recommend it to kids & parents with a sense of humor. Just imagine Grandma & Grandpa reading it aloud!

appaling, but incredibly good and funny
I'm not into potty humor, i'm not into any of the other potty humor type kids books or cartoons, I just loved this book though. The subject should be really weird, I mean a book about a dog with perpetual farts? it wasn't though it was just hilarious, perhaps because of the potty humor. I liked the book almost almost more than my little sister did. ... Read more

Book Description

Walter’s family is holding a yard sale, but there are few customers. Walter, fartingcontentedly near Father, wonders why. When a man offers ten dollars for Walter, Fatherreadily agrees. Walter wonders why. Walter is sad to leave his family behind, butrelieved to discover that his new owner is a clown. Walter figures he will help the clownbring joy to children on their birthdays. But the clown has a dastardly plot: he will useWalter’s gas to inflate balloons and then pop them to stun guards during bank robberies.Will Walter turn to the dark side? Of course not! He comes out a hero and is reunitedwith his family by doing what he does best. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

It is about FARTS!
To all of those reviewers who have panned or have been offended by this book, all I have to say is:

"I fart in your general direction"

The name of the book is Walter the Farting Dog.
If farts offend you, DON'T READ THE BOOK!
Did you think it was going to be about making cookies?!?!?

The book is strange, weird and silly.
The drawings are abstract and fun to look at.
The story is weird at best, but a story about a farting dog, come on, this ain't War and Peace.

If you like farts, buy the book. My kids LOVE it, and isn't that who the book is written for?

Craig

Loses the first book.s sweet spirit
From the moment Dad sells Walter at the garage sale without so much as a second thought, this book heads down the wrong path. It does not have the goofy sweet spirit of the first book. The kids I read it to were really upset that not only Dad sold the dog, but he lies without even a blink. Boo Hiss!

Walter, Canus Inflatus
I ran across the first two Walter books while I was at the mall waiting for my husband to finish looking at every single DVD in stock (there must have been thousands.) So I had plenty of time to read both books. I loved them!

I rarely have occasion to look at childrens' books, so I was a bit surprised at the title. It's a far cry from Wishbone and Clifford the Big Red Dog. But this is a very funny book. Yes, it's lowbrow and coarse. So are the Three Stooges and most children. And behind their sophisticated, mature exteriors, so are most adults. So relax and enjoy this well-written (by William Kotzwinkle, author of E.T.) story of a stray dog whose family loves him even with his one major flaw. Find out how Walter triumphs despite being sold at the family yard sale to an evil clown who uses Walter to inflate putrid balloons to use as weapons during a bank robbery.

And for those over-educated lowbrows among you, check out the Latin translation (really!), Walter, Canus Inflatus.

Kick Back and Laugh!
If you enjoyed the first "Walter the Farting Dog," you'll fall off your chair laughing at this second book in the series. William Kotzwinkle's imagination is one to admire to come up with such a creative and cute use of a bodily function that we all have to address at some point in our lives. If you're offended by farts, don't buy the book. But if you have grown up in an environment where you can joke about these acts of nature, you'll laugh you head off while reading this book! I say, "Laugh, and laugh out loud!"

a dog lover's special
If you don't have a sense of humor, don't buy this book. If you want to laugh outloud, buy it. If you're a dog person, you'll want to buy copies for your friends. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Author Wilson Rawls spent his boyhood much like the character of this book, Billy Colman, roaming the Ozarks of northeastern Oklahoma with his bluetick hound. A straightforward, shoot-from-the-hip storyteller with a searingly honest voice, Rawls is well-loved for this powerful 1961 classic and the award-winning novel Summer of the Monkeys. In Where the Red Fern Grows, Billy and his precious coonhound pups romp relentlessly through the Ozarks, trying to "tree" the elusive raccoon. In time, the inseparable trio wins the coveted gold cup in the annual coon-hunt contest, captures the wily ghost coon, and bravely fights with a mountain lion.When the victory over the mountain lion turns to tragedy, Billy grieves, but learns the beautiful old Native American legend of the sacred red fern that grows over the graves of his dogs. This unforgettable classic belongs on every child's bookshelf. (Ages 9 and up) ... Read more

Reviews (804)

Exciting novel
Where the Red Fern Grows
In spite of being labeled as a sad sob story, Where the Red Fern Grows is a priceless novel filled with adventure and excitement. I believe that Rawls uses the two dogs Old Dan and Little Ann plus the emotional ending of the novel to attract the female gender. But to the same affect attracts the males with the adventures that these dynamic three undergo. Billy, a young boy, whose had a dream of owning a pair of coon hunting dogs. Works two long years of backbreaking work to finally raising enough money to purchase the two dogs. He embraces the dogs as if they are his children, working with them none stop so that they could become the very best coon-hunting team in Cherokee county. A lot of the time this book is required reading for many middle school students. So I believe Rawls uses this never give up attitude to encourage the young readers. After working so hard and accomplishing many goals with the dogs Billy enters a competition and wins. Thrilled with his accomplishment he ventures to other events. First place after first place Billy and the team seek higher standards. As you read, we follow the threesome on an adventure of a lifetime. Traveling on foot Billy and his two dogs head to the Tournament of tournaments the Coon Hunting Championship. Billy, unknowing of the dangers of the journey, runs into a little trouble on the way. As the book slows down and almost loses readers, this journey to the championship keeps us into it. Fortunately the team arrives in one piece and enters the competition. The team wins but to Billy's surprise the dogs aren't satisfied. Because they still have one coon to get, Shadow, the coon that cannot be caught. Rawl takes us on an adventure, and yet again has you sitting at the edge of your seat.

And So The Adventures Begin
If you are going to read a book to your class, Having your class reading a book, reading a book to yourself, giving a book to a friend or relative, or any thing else, Where The Red Fern Grows ,by Wilson Rawls is the book for you. it is a wonderful and touching story about a boy, Billy, and his dogs. It starts out with a man looking back on his childhood, and how he dreamt of having some fine dog. Finally he got enough money to buy the dogs his heart was set on, and so the adventures begin. This book is very well written. It brings you to the place, time and point if view of Billy and his family, and without being too descriptive or boring. There aren't those chapters which you find in moast descriptive books where all that seems to happen is you know EXACTLY what a certain character looks like. Not only that, it is a real page turner. No matter how much you read you have to know what happens next. With every chapter comes a new adventure! If someone told you that a book about a boy and his dogs catching raccoons would be a page turner, you probably would not believe them, but you are never satisfied to stop after any chapter. Some people find the way that they talk with a southern accent gets in the way, but soon you will get used to it. I think it ads to the atmosphere. You should definitely at least try out this book and when you do, which should be soon, you will find it is a excellent read.

Is there a better story out there?
NO, this has to be the best story I have ever read. I read this book recently to my 7 year old son. Wanting to show him the power of books. I was worried he'd be upset by the ending in this. I shouldn't of worried. I was the one who ended up crying and reading it to him at the same time. As an adult I felt foolish. He wasn't near as upset about it as me and I KNEW what was going to happen since I read it as a child myself. WOW, the power of a book. Simply amazing.

Once upon a time when I was a little girl
I hate it when a reviewer gives the story away, so I won't. Safe to say, though, that when I was a little girl, I read a book in one night, under the covers with a flashlight. That book, of course, was WTRFG. I just re-read it again after 20 some-odd years. I am surprised to find that I cried as hard as I did as when I was 9. I was once again, so engrossed that I read it in one night, ignoring the fact that I had to work the next day. It is a beautiful story, a timeless one. A childhood favorite. I am amazed that it didn't win a Newberry Honor medal, or some other kind of award. This is one of the books that helped instill a loving of reading at an early age. A GEM, don't miss it. A story about a young boy on the brink of manhood and his love for his pups....whom he worked so hard for. You will laugh and cry, at age 9, 29, or 99. Buy it for your kids, and rea it for yourself.

Read This Book!
Wow! this is one of the best book I have written in a long time. If you have not read Where the Red Fern Grows trust me it is the kind of book you will have regeted if you did not read it. Ok well the book is about a boy named Billy that works for his own needs. Billy wants to get 2 dogs that he can train to get racoons. He eventually works for weeks to get the money for his dogs and then gives the money to his grandfather for him to buy the dogs. Old Dan and Little Ann are the names of the two dogs. The exciting advetures that Billy,Old Dan and Little An go through are thrilling and endless. To top it all off the story has a twist at the end. You should definetly read this book to find out whuat happens! ... Read more

Book Description

For Every Dog An angel is a light, magical little book that honors the timeless connection between people and their canine companions.Written from the heart after the unexpected loss of her "forever dog" Martha, this charming book will bring comfort to anyone who has ever had to say goodbye to their best four-legged friend.For Every Dog An Angel is also a heart-felt way to welcome a new puppy or to celebrate a much-loved doggie friend. ... Read more

Reviews (34)

Uplifting and gentle in a time of grief!
This book is a favorite condolence 'gift' to everyone I know who has lost a dog. Recipients tell me it has brought them much comfort and is very uplifting to them. Some who swore they would never get another pet, decide, after reading the book, to get a new dog. The book is beautiful illustrated and worded. I like to have several on hand to give as needed and have given it to friend to give to people they know who have lost pets. It's hardly more than the cost of a card.

"Forever pets" and their "forever people" will reunite

The author wrote this God-blessed little book after having a wonderful vision of her beloved dog Martha in the arms of an angel; it turned her bereavement into inspiration. It should lift the heart and spirit of anyone who reads it.

I would like to make several recommendations here since there is no category as of yet specifically on animal afterlife, on-line (or in any other lists for that matter).

Because of this and the fact that there are so few books written on this subject, those in grief over the loss of a pet often find themselves desperately searching, and miss out. I would therefore like to list all the books that I know of dealing with afterlife of animals. Amazon.com has sites on all of them. You can visit each site to learn more on each respective title.

"Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates".Excellently done:inspired compassionate, fully-Biblical

"The Soul of Your Pet". Convincing, credible evidence regarding animals' existing after death.Interactions with pets that have passed on. Will defy skeptics.

"Will I See Fido in Heaven?". Solidly Christian, inspired,loving.

"For Every Dog an Angel". Angel stays with pup from birth, on. Written for children, adults will love even more. Wonderful!

"Dog Heaven". For children; adults will enjoy as well

"Cat Heaven" Children/adults

"All Dogs Go to Heaven". Well-known, has a story-line.

This book has a special meaning to young and old
As a 60-something physician I first read this book. I have recommended it to many of my adult patients who have lost a pet as one of the most valuable sources of comfort that is available to help them get through their grief period. This not just a children's book. It's text should be considered gentle, not juvenile.
Christine Davis has provided a valuable service by writing this book. I was happy to see that a companion piece for cats has also been published. Thank you, Christine, for helping us cope with the profound loss of a companion.

If you need to read this book, I'm so sorry
Oh my! This is ABSOLUTELY the most comforting book I have ever read. My "forever dog", Molson, died of leukemia, and we read this book together on a daily basis until I had the strength to release him. No books, no websites; no friends, no other could have helped us transition more then this book. I now keep at least three copies available at home to give to others who experience the absolute, inconsolable loss of a dear friend and companion. Like everything, it can't obliterate the hurt, but it can SURELY raise the hope. BRAVO! and Thank You!

For kids only - not adults
This is a wonderful book for kids. I am an adult over 50 and was very disappointed with this book. It brought me no comfort over the loss of my dog, it took a dog's passing too lighthearted. It is definitely recommended reading for children to understand the loss of their pet. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Life lessons? Romance? Literary instruction? Go, Dog. Go! offers all this and more, wrapped up in one simply worded, warmly hued package. Using single-syllable words in rhythmic repetition, and introducing colors and prepositions, this Seuss-styled classic has been an early favorite of children since 1961. For those looking for deeper meaning in a beginning reader book, here you'll find nothing less than a microcosm of life. Green dogs, yellow dogs, big dogs, little dogs. Dogs who prefer cars, dogs who favor skis. All represent the diversity a child will find in the world. And the slow-to-bud romance between the cheerfully oblivious yellow dog and the mincing pink poodle explains more succinctly than most self-help books what goes on in many grown-up relationships. Nonetheless, Eastman takes the concept of "primary" to heart, with his simple silly phrases and solidly colored illustrations. Not only will this book inspire peals of laughter in kids, it will also help them make the magical connection between those mysterious black squiggles on the page, and the words they hear and speak. (Ages 4 to 8) ... Read more

Reviews (53)

Childrens' FUN easy to read classic
This book is an oldie but goodie. It brings back fond memories from my own childhood. Unlike other so-called "classics" that show their age with flaws (such as "Pat the Bunny"-- which exemplifies the typical stomach-turning smarmy 40's or 50's household and bland illustrations), this one is fun and shows its age with STYLE and humor ( with 60's-style cars and poodles).

But best of all, this is a great book because CHILDREN love it, and it's a beginner book that they'll start to memorize and read! Despite all of the books we've collected to read to our toddler, she requests this one again and again. The words are simple and easy to learn, and children are drawn to the lovable dogs.

As an adult, dogs are so amazingly appropriate as the main characters. I mean, what other animals "GO" like dogs? Dogs always seem to want to go somewhere or be busy, or join a "dog party!" and they are all different and unique, just like the ones in this book!

Go, Dog. Go! (This book is great!)
This is one of the most interesting and exciting books that your child will ever read in his/her lifetime! This has been one of the top three favorite books of mine since I was a child. To all of you silly little gooses out there, you better buy this book because it was created just for you. It will really bring out the creative side of your children. It really doesn't have a big moral or lesson or anything. That's what makes it so different and funny. This is a book for learning how to read. Not learning a lesson. It's just really fun to read, and to listen to when someone reads it to you.
"Dog. Big dog, little dog." That's how the story begins. How it ends? Read it and find out! You can either purchase it here online, or go to a store, or what I would do, rent it out from the library. I mean, why would you just go out and buy it, without knowing if you're going to like it? (I know that I'm supposed to try to make you buy it from here but I mean, I wouldn't. So I don't expect you to either.) All I'm here to do is to say how much I love and enjoy this book and think that you would too. I recommend it highly.
So after hearing what I have to say about it, go do something nice for your children and yourself, and go read this book.

Vocabulary For The Dogs
This was one of my favorites as a child. It became a favorite of my daughter's as well. Now my son is hooked on it.

The book starts simply. "Dog" is the only word on the page. That sets up the theme.

We quickly are taken through comparisons and colors. Black, white, red, blue, yellow, green, in, out, up, down, big, small, stop, go, over and under. Add some simple numbers and the book gains real substance.

But then we have the two plots. First is the "Do you like my hat?" story that runs to the book's conclusion. The other is dogs on the go. They run around, go to sleep, wake up, drive away fast, and finally all congregate at the top of a tree.

Great Eastman illustrations and fun vocabulary will entertain most children

Sure Sign of Quality
My father winces whenever the subject of Go, Dog. Go! is brought up. This book wasn't just my favorite, I was obsessed with it. So, of course, Dad read it to me...ABOUT FIFTY THOUSAND TIMES! I think the poor man still has Go, Dog. Go! dreams. For me, Eastman will always live in a place with Seuss and Sendak. Superior children's lit.

kids love it
This book is timeless. I loved it as a child and I love it as an adult. The pictures are great for kids. As an adult, I love the pictures as much as my son. The text is simple, but in a style that is enticing to young children, and allows kids to recite the story aloud after a few readings. And for the few adult critics who say the text is not sophisticated enough for them but their kids love it, - gimme a break - it's a CHILDREN' book for crying out loud. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

My daughter loves this book
My daughter loves this book. She noticed it when she was 7 months old and began to turn the pages on her own. It is just the right size to hold, and she loves to chew on it. She is 15 months old and still brings it to me to read. I have had to repair it over and over. I think the art reproductions are too complex for a baby or I would give it 5 stars. She has the babies and cat books and also loved them to death. Or, does she just like them as a teething toy?

Great for babies enchanted with dogs
This book was one of our daughter's favorites for awhile. It's the perfect size for small hands, and she has always been really obsessed with dogs. I think this book has helped her learn that dogs come in all shapes and sizes.

She still enjoys this book (at 17 months), but now that she's learned a lot of baby signs, she enjoys more complicated books more. I would get this book for a baby at around 10 months old, possibly skip it for an older baby who likes more complicated books.

If you're interested in this book, also check out the Baby Einstein Cats board book (same principle), as well as the Neighborhood Animals board book. All 3 are excellent to introduce a baby to familiar animals.

Cute and useful
This book is perfect for just getting started. Perfect as a new parent gift. (...)

Great for small hands
My 4 month old son has been playing with this book for about a month now. The size is small, which surprised me at first, but it's the perfect size for his little hands. We like to go through the book and talk about how our dog is just like the dogs in the book. He loves it.

Great Book
First off, I would like to say that the Baby Einstein puppy is so cute. This book is for ages 1 month and up. The text in this book is very simple, so little ones can understand it. The pictures are perhaps one of the best features because they vary so much. There are paintings, drawings and photos. All with different colors, textures and actions.

The best way to encourage a child to read is to have books in the home. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Officer Buckle is a roly-poly bloke, dedicated to teaching schoolchildren important safety tips, such as never put anything in your ear and never stand on a swivel chair. The problem is, Officer Buckle's school assemblies are dull, dull, dull, and the children of Napville just sleep, sleep, sleep. That is, until Gloria the police dog is invited along! Stealthily pantomiming each safety tip behind Officer Buckle's back, Gloria wins the children's hearts. Meanwhile Officer Buckle assumes the cheers and laughter are all for him. As the master comedian Jerry Lewis once explained, every slapstick artist needs a straight man! Children will be highly entertained by the laugh-out-loud, adorable illustrations in this 1996 Caldecott Medal winner, while learning the value of teamwork and a pawful of nifty safety tips. (Ages 4 to 8) --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (31)

Stay with your buddy!
This book for children is about a police officer (I've been told that it is based, in part, on a San Francisco officer) who gives talks on safety to elementary school children. His talks are quite boring until he is accompanied by his police dog, Gloria. At first he is deflated that the students aren't cheering his presentation; but, with Gloria present they actually learn safety. The book won the 1996 Caldecott Medal for best illustrations in a children's book. One of the earlier reviewers gave this book only two stars apparently because they couldn't see the humor. Part of the humor can be found in the background and how it meshes with the text.

A Read-Aloud Hit!
Primary age students in our school love to have "OfficerBuckle and Gloria" read aloud to them, and upper grade studentsremember this story fondly.

While the story stands alone as a playful read-aloud, it can be an effective tool for opening a discussion on safety. Officer Buckle keeps thinking of new safety tips that he keeps thumbtacked to his bulletin board, like "never do tricks on the monkey bars without someone there to catch you." The endpapers of the book are also filled with stars containing more safety tips.

Just as the students in the story are entertained by Gloria, the dog, and come away with Officer Buckle's helpful tips, children who read or listen to this book read will be entertained, yet come away with some great advice, such as "always wear a crash helmet."

This one deserves the Caldecott Medal as the colorful, playful drawings are an essential part of the story.

Safety tips
Officer Buckle is a friendly police officer who enjoys making up safety tips and sharing them with school children. However, the school children find Officer Buckle's safety lectures boring, until the day when he takes his new police dog Gloria along with him to the lecture. Officer Buckle doesn't know it, but Gloria has a habit of acting out the tips behind his back while he is speaking. When Officer Buckle finally finds out what Gloria is doing behind his back, he decides to stop giving lectures. But Gloria finds that she can't go on without him, and the school children also miss the fun. The story is very cute and not at all scary.

An officer and a gentle dog
Widely regarded as the least deserving Caldecott winner in the last 15 years. Now that's a pretty negative opening comment about a book that is, all in all, an amusing story about a man and his eclectic dog. And I'm not saying that this book is THE worst Caldecott winner to have ever existed. That honor belongs to the ludicrously racist and factually inaccurate "Abraham Lincoln" by the Parin d'Aulaires. Certainly this is a nice little tale about safety, and it presents actual important safety tips in a fun and original manner. But it's hardly deserving of a medal. Hardly.

In this tale, Officer Buckle finds that his school safety tips are being met with more than a little disregard on the part of the students. Kids are just snoring in the aisles when Buckle reads the list of tips. All that changes when the Officer acquires a police dog named Gloria. Suddenly the kids are wide-awake for Buckle's safety demos, and it's no wonder. Gloria is faithfully acting out each and every safety tip as her owner reads them out. From "Never leave a thumbtack where you might sit on it" to "Do not go swimming during electrical storms". Of course, Officer Buckle has no clue why there has been such a rise in his own popularity. But when watching a taped recording of his own program, the law enforcement agent must decide whether or not he is of any real importance to the community, or if it's all Gloria's glory.

There's a lot to love in this story. Rathmann has fitted many a scene with tiny interesting details. Buckle fans (as well as the Officer himself) sport anti-banana peel badges and t-shirts. Officer Buckle's book collection (containing such titles as "You Can't Be Too Careful" and "Safety in Numbers") is held together by Gloria shaped book-ends. And check out Buckle's final safety tip written in front of him while angrily refusing to do anymore speeches (#100: Never turn your back on a strange dog). The plot is cute as well. It's nice to see an energetic dog in the vein of Snoopy or Mark Teague's Ike that's female for once. And there is a real affection between Buckle and his trusty canine friend. I think back to the scene of the policeman feeding Gloria an ice cream cone after she's given a stint of autographs to waiting fans. Finally, there's no denying that Buckle has come up with some really good safety tips. The front and end papers of this book show some useful stars containing Gloria acting out why one should or should not follow such n' such a tip.

Now when I said the book didn't deserve the Caldecott, I meant it. It's a swell book with a fun story and lovely pictures. But it's not superb. I can only assume it won solely on the basis that it is the only Caldecott book to discuss safety in any serious manner. And it does so without causing undue fear or worry on the part of the small child reader. Which is good. So by all means, go out and read this nice little story. Just don't expect to be blown away by its wit or depth.

just so so funny
we just read it together and laugh and laugh and laugh. and then one of us, my son or i will point to another illustration of gloria's expressions or antics and we just laugh and laugh again. a lovely book. ... Read more

Book Description

Little Willy's Grandfather is sick, and it's up to Willy to save their farm from tax collectors. Their only hope is the prize money from the National Dogsled Race. But a lot of other people want to win the race, too, including Stone Fox, who has never lost a race in his life.

Do Willy and his dor Searchlight stand a chance against the toughest racers around? Can they win the race to save the far, -- and Grandfather -- before it's too late? ... Read more

Reviews (196)

A five star not too long read
Stone Fox is a great book for all elementary students. It is about a ten year old boy (named little Willy) and his dog Searchlight. His grandpa is keeping a secret from him which is the cause of grandpa being sick. When little Willy finds out what the secret is he learns that he must get 500$ and fast. What luck, there just so happens to be a dog sled race going on and the prize money is 500$! When he enters he knows he must win and if he doesn't grandpa won't get better and their farm will be taken away from them. Little Willy feels very confident in himself, but the great Stone Fox is coming. He has never lost a race. Does he beat the great Stone Fox? Does grandpa get better? Do they keep their farm? Use my advice and read the book to find out.

An Enjoyable Book
What happens when a little boy enters a sled dog race to win a $500 prize so that he can save his grandfather's farm? You can find out by reading Stone Fox, written by John R. Gardiner.

Stone Fox is a story about a little boy in a small town in the snowy Rockies whose grandfather doesn't want to live any longer. He hasn't been paying his taxes, so he is in danger of losing his farm. It's up to Little Willy to solve the problem.

The main characters of this story are Little Willy and Stone Fox. Little Willy is a small, short-haired ten-year-old boy who wants to save his grandfather's farm. He is very talkative and inquisitive.

Stone Fox is a very tall, tan Native American with long, black hair. He is a very quiet and determined man. Stone Fox hopes to win the $500 prize money so he can buy back land for his tribe.

John r. Gardiner, the author of Stone Fox, was born in Los Angeles and grew up in Long Beach, CA. Mr. Gardiner has written children's stories that have been told on TV. He has also written Top Secret and General Butter Fingers.

By the time you finish reading Stone Fox you will realize that even a kid can make a big difference if he or she tries hard. If you like reading about kids doing amazing things, then you will definitely enjoy Stone Fox.

The Race
This book was a good book I liked it. This book was about a little boy who lived with his grandpa. He helped his grandpa grow a farm the little boy also had a dog. The grandpa was not up to date with his payment. Like a day later his grandpa was sick and he could not do anything to help his farm. Now to the good part of the book is the end of the book. There was a sled dog race in town and the boy wanted to enter in it so he went to town the next day to sign up for the race. There was added money for the winner. They had to race that day there was a race for youth and for the adults. For the adults you had to pay 100 dollars to get in the race. But they would not let him in the adult race because he was too young and then finally they let him in the race if he had the money. So he went to the bank to check out his money and he got in the race. So the race had started and their was a lot of people enter the race. He started in the back and worked his way to the front until they saw the finish line and it was the boy and stone fox and the boy was in the lead and they were about 100 feet and the boy's dog died while running. But Stone Fox did not pass the finish line he stop his dog and took out his gun and shot it in the air and told everbody to stop and not to pass the boy. He told the boy to pick up the dog and cross the finish line. And the little boy won the race. And he got to pay for his grandpa's farm after he won the money.

I would tell someone to read this book because of the race it was a real good long race.

STONE FOX
I thought the book was the best book I read but It
had a sad ending thats the part I didnt like.

Stone Fox
I thought the book Stone Fox was a good story.I liked the part where little Willy was racing with searchlightand little Willy was pretending he was racing with somebody else but he wasnt. ... Read more

Book Description

Serious silliness for all ages. Artist Sandra Boynton is back and better than ever with completely redrawnversions of her multi-million selling board books. These whimsical and hilarious books, featuringnontraditional texts and her famous animal characters, have been printed on thick board pages,and are sure to educate and entertain children of all ages. ... Read more

Reviews (38)

My son just read it to me
My son is almost 3 and is just learning his ABC's but with only a few days of reading this book he "read" it to me tonight for bedtime, barking correctly for each of the dogs and howling at the moon "like a coyote". My son enjoys the book and I think the simplicity is part of his attraction. For me the fun of this book is barking together. It's a great little book, but not recommended for people that can't ham it up a little. Also, if you get bored reading repetitious books, check it out from the library instead of buying it so you can take it back when you get tired of barking.

My son "wuffs" it!
I purchased this book when my son was 10 months old. He wasn't interested in it back then... NOW, he is 15 months, and he makes us read "Doggies" over and over and over again. You can't be shy reading this book to children, otherwise, it would be quite boring. It's a fun book and although I get tired of reading it to him a million times, I love the fact that my son is excited about reading and books. Thank you Sandra Boynton.

My kids love it!!!!
My kids ages 1 and 3 love this book. The pictures are wonderful and they love all the different sounds that the dogs make. I enjoy reading this one to them. My son, age 1, asks for this one over and over again.

Here a ruff, there a woof, everywhere a bow wow
My two toddlers love - and I mean LOVE - being read this book. I, however, am not as keen. It's a good book, great even. I give it five stars! It's just that a true rendition of this counting book by dogs and their number of barks can be a little wearing on the adult reading the book. But it's well worth it when it's all said and done just to see the huge smile of my kids as I'm barking, woofing or ruffing. HELPFUL HINT: hide this book for special occassions! otherwise be prepared because your kids will always pull this out out for bedtime reading......

It freakin' rocks my world
Maximum barkage! Mega canine action takes counting to a whole new level. Oh yes.

My 9 month old daughter thinks it's the fizzle shizzle. To top it all off there suprise ending that will blow your freakin' mind!

Prepare for lift-off. ... Read more

Book Description

Available in paperback for the first time, the modern classic that introduced the beloved baby-sitting rottweiler to the world. ... Read more

Reviews (34)

A great "wordless book"
It's not toally wordless.. there are a total of two sentences; one in the beginning and one at the end. The rest of the story is done through beautiful illustrations of interactions between Carl (a Rottweiller) and a baby he's left to care for. For those who find that absurd I point to every story where children are abandoned by mothers (Cat in the Hat, Hansel and Gretel, for that matter every fairy tale ever written). It's fiction! Also it is intended for a pre-reading audience (I recommend 2-3 years) not those who will be judging its probability.

As a speech language pathologist I find this book to be AMAZING for eliciting spoken language. You can ask what the baby is doing, where is the baby, how did that happen, or even "Can a baby swim in a fish tank???" Even my 2 year old son answers no.

It's a great imaginative story with beautiful pictures, phooey to those who are shocked.

Great book for any dog-loving child!
Beautiful pictures captivate child and adult alike as they tell the adventures of lovable Carl and his small charge. On this day, Carl's job is simply to babysit for an afternoon. What an afternoon it turns out to be for Carl and the baby! Even non-readers can follow Carl's adventures and begin to cultivate a love for books through this creatively told story. Dogs and young children are a perfect combination. After reading this book, you will think the same about books and young children!

A great wordless book
(...) It's a beautifully illustrated book with all of two printed sentences. The child can speak the story, question the story, and describe the probability if they are mature enough. Yes, the parents do leave the child with a Rottweiller, but unless you are buying this as a parenting manual this will not affect your children's behaviour.

I am amazed that anyone finds it shocking, considering the truly shocking we see in our culture all day.. a piece of children's ficiton on par with a giant red dog (Clifford?) or any fairy tale ever spoken. It is truly innocent and appealing to most toddlers I've met.

Try another Carl Book
The dog "Carl" is left alone to babysit. If you read the other reviews, you will see people shocked by the antics (sliding down the laundry shoot, swimming in the fish tank, etc.) I have to agree that you don't want your child thinking these things are fun or funny. However, I recommend you try "Carl's Afternoon in the Park." Same idea (rottweiler left to take care of baby, which you may argue is disturbing in itself, but not if you take it in good fun as it is meant) without the really off-limits stuff that you don't want your child attempting. In this book, Carl, baby, and a puppy do things that you would do with your child (go on the merry-go-round, get ice cream, slide down slide, get their pictures painted). My son loves it... laughs at the dog getting water splashed in his face and the puppy sliding down the slide and toppling over the baby. And enough intrigue for an adult (nice to notice every artist is painting the dogs and baby using different styles). Beautiful pictures throughout. Over all, a good, beautiful, imaginative book.

nothing good about this book
i really don't understand how someone could love this book. my mom bought it for my daughter w/o really reading it first. she saw there was a dog on it and my daughter loves dogs so she bought it. well, she gives it to her and we are looking through it and i couldn't believe how stupid and thoughtless this book was! a classic? HARDLY!
a dog left in charge of a child....dog gets the baby out of the crib, dog lets the child get in the fish tank...i mean, what the heck??!
this book, in my opinion is whacked. we chunked it in the trash!
if i could give ZERO stars, i would! ... Read more

Book Description

Illus. in full color. "In this gentle, moving story, Elfie, a dachshund, and

her special boy progress happily through life together. One morning Elfie does

not wake up. The family grieves and buries her. The watercolor illustrations,

tender and warm in color and mood, suit the simple text perfectly."--School

Library Journal.




... Read more

Reviews (14)

Still Has The Same Magic
As a little girl I read this book when my dog was dying. It truly helped me deal with his death and realize that is okay to be sad. It is a wonderful tool to help children understand death a bit better. Few books since my childhood have made such an impression on me as this one, and it is the only book from my childhood I still keep on my shelf as a college student. In fact, my cat grew very sick of cancer and I read this book again to make myself feel better about the situation. And I have never forgotten to utter Hans Wilhelm's words into my pets' ears. And right before my cat died, I whispered "I will always love you" just as the little boy in the story did.

A wonderful book...
There are some books I think should be in every household, and if you have both children and pets, this is one of them. Dealing with the death of a beloved pet is difficult enough for anyone, let alone a child, but this book helps. In fact, I would recommend this book to adult pet owners as well. Nothing will stop the pain of the loss of course, but "I'll Always Love You" helps bring back the happiness and lets the healing begin. I have been a booster of this book for years and hope it NEVER goes out of print. Do yourself a favor and buy this warm story of Effie, "the best dog in the whole world" and her boy....

The perfect book for all ages
This is the perfect pet loss book for all ages. A good gift to give when words do not seem appropriate. Similar to Boomerang - A Miracle Trilogy, about the short but miraculous life of a remarable Boston Terrier. And, how through love, all things are possible.

Great for Saying Goodbye
I got this book to help my daughter deal with the loss of our dog who had become sick and had to be put down. I liked the way the book was to the point and very sweet at the same time. The book also stays away from taking a religious stand point which I was greatful for. My daughter is too young to have to deal with that aspect of life or death. This book teaches that sometimes something you love will go away forever, but even though they are gone, you can always love and remember them.

Heartwarming
Such a touching and heartwarming read. What a wonderful way to help children and adults deal with the pain of losing a beloved pet. Especially helpful for anyone with an old or ailing dog, and the heartache of "anticipatory grief". As Boomerang would say, as part of his Kindness Network Bylaws, "See with your heart, what may be invisible to your eyes."
Arlene Millman, author of BOOMERANG - A MIRACLE TRILOGY ... Read more

Book Description

Look for additional Blue's Clues books -- board books, sticker books, and more! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

His new snuggly?
My 20 mo old son hasn't "bonded" to an object yet and this book may be it...he LOVES the pictures and makes sounds like Blue when he reads it. He's hard to get to concentrate on a book...we may get the whole series!

just okay
My daughter is a huge Blue's Clues fan so we had to get this book for her. I was also looking forward to the subject of bedtime since my little girl tends to have trouble winding down and getting ready for bed. So I thought maybe this would help a little.
I thought the story was not really as good as some other Blue's Clues books we've read. And the main thing I didn't really like was that the pages just had too much text for us. My daughter is 20 months and actually has quite a long attention span for her age, but she just doesn't stay interested in this book long enough for me to read a whole page.
If your child is a little older though, it should be okay. Overall I wouldn't say this is a bad little book...just okay!

Great Bedtime book!
My 18 mo old son had become a Blues Clues addict. He calls them "coo-clues." I bought this book for him along with a few others, and this has become the overwhelming favorite. He brings it to me all the time, requesting me to read it. In the book Blue goes through her bedtime routine and my son finds it easy to follow along pointing out to things along the way. He likes this book so much we usually end up reading it several times in a row!

Bedtime favorite
This book is our daughters favorite our of all the Blue's books. It's the current bedtime book and she could easily spend the entire night reading it. It is fun for parents to read in bed with their kids and you will enjoy it too. Pages are bright and colorful and holds the childs attention. Parents add a few sound effects, dog barks etc, like on tv, and you will have a winner here. The whole Blue's videos and books are a must and in association with parental teaching your child will improve greatly. Where was Blue many years ago for our other children. One of the best learning shows around. Our daughter is two years old and now has a great imagination and play skills, which, thanks to Blue and Steve, is improving each and everyday of Blues Clues. Buy this book, plenty of fun adults and kids.

Good bed-time book - but no clues
This is a nice little book for walking your child through a bedtime routine. It doesn't require any familiarity with Blue's Clues for it to make sense and be a good bed-time read. However, if your child (like mine) is a Blue's Clues nut, and constantly scanning for clues, this book may cause some dissapointment at first. He got over it though, and now makes up his own clues as he goes through the book. Good stuff. ... Read more

Book Description

Illus. in full color. Trans. by Pilar de Cuenca & Inés Alvares. "The presence of the English text beneath the Spanish makes it especially helpful in the primary-grade bilingual classroom."--Booklist. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Great book and translation!
Unlike a lot of other books that are translated into Spanish, this one doesn't lose much of the rhythm or the fun when translated. It also has the English text along with the Spanish text. My 1 1/2 year old son really enjoys this book, along with the tape recording of his Tio Raul reading it. I highly recommend it!

I loved this book as a child!
I think one of the many bonuses of the bilingual version of this book is that the text is simple and does not overpower the page. This is a great book for a great price.

easy to understand
A wonderful book for begginers at a really cheap price. The pictues show the text really well and just in case there are some misunderstandings about the meaning of the spanish sentenes, the english version is witten right below it. I am teaching my 2-year old spanish along with improving mine, and this book is really helpful. HIghly recommended to all ages.

Excellent starter book
I bought this book for my son, and think i'll have to get another pretty soon, he can't let go, either i have to read it to him every night or he has to read it to me, It's getting pretty worn out.
Some times we alternate, I read in spanish he reads in english.
So if your looking for a billingual book for your children look no further

Opposites Attract
This book does an excellent job of exploring the concepts of size, color and opposites using a storyline about two dogs who are very different, but also the best of friends. English text is displayed under the Spanish, making it an excellent choice for a bilingual classroom in the primary grades. ( or for English as a second language learners.) ... Read more

Book Description

At first, Travis couldn't stand the sight of Old Yeller

The stray dog was ugly, and a thieving rascal, too. But he sure was clever, and a smart dog could be a big help on the wild Texas frontier, especially with Papa away on a long cattle drive up to Abilene.

Strong and courageous, Old Yeller proved that he could protect Travis's family from any sort of danger. But can Travis do the same for Old Yeller?

1957 Newbery Honor Book
Notable Children's Books of 1940–1970 (ALA)
1959 William Allen White Award
1959 Sequoya Award (Oklahoma)
1959 Young Readers' Choice Award (Pacific Northwest Library Association) ... Read more

Reviews (73)

BEST BOOK EVER! A LOT OF FRIENDSHIP, DRAMATIC DESICIONS...
Alexandra Y 10/25/02
Reading Response #5
Old Yeller By Fred Gipson

I think that Old Yeller is a good book. There are many carefully described details and thoughtful characters. This book is about a 14-year old boy named Travis who becomes the "man" of his family. While his father is gone, Travis becomes friends with an old, yellow dog who shows up at their cabin. He doesn't like this dog at all until something bad happens to his brother, Arliss and Old Yeller comes to the rescue. This book is filled with friendship, happiness, excitement, and sadness, which reminds me of the movie Shiloh.
Old Yeller takes place in the Texas hills during the 1860's. The setting is very important because it shows how hard it was to manage living. For example, they didn't have soap back then. They would have to mix lye water with hog fat and boil it. The setting also explains that they lived in the country area and had to prepare very hard each year for the comings of winter. This is one reason why they needed a dog to help. Luckily, Old Yeller joined the family and helped along!
If I could meet the author, Fred Gipson, I would ask him many questions. Was he the first author to write about a boy and a dog's friendship? Did many people copy his idea because they liked his book? Or did he get his plot idea from another author? Also, I would ask him if this story is true. While reading Old Yeller, I felt as if it really happened because of the wonderful details. I think it would be quite amazing if this plot weren't a true story because I felt that Old Yeller is very realistic and I felt very close to the characters. They have unique personalities.
Old Yeller reminds me of life in the world. Like the world, this book has sadness, joy, happiness, problems, and pain. In the world there are a lot pain, like when Old Yeller repeatedly gets hit by a rock. I think this is one of the reasons why this book is so interesting to read.
Old Yeller is a great book. I think that it was a good idea for this book to get a Newbury Honor. I recommend Old Yeller to everyone who likes A Day No Pigs Would Die by R. Peck. Both books are about an animal that becomes an important part of the main character's lives.

Just a good book
I just recently read Old Yeller for a book report and I