Book Description

Reviews (1)

How can you pass this up?
There is no way I can pass this book up everytime I'm in the bookstore. And I own two different copies of this fantastic tale. Yet, I still pick the book up and flip through the first few pages, smiling ear to ear at the wonderment that makes up Peter Pan.

Peter is a boy that refuses to grow up. He lives in Neverland with his fairy, Tinkerbell, and the Lost Boys. He visits the nursery of Wendy, Michael, and John Darling to hear Wendy's marvelous stories, and one night loses that pesky shadow. When he comes back to get it and tries to stick it back on, Wendy discovers this new boy in their nursery and soon learns about his amazing lifestyle. Entranced by thoughts of pirates, mermaids, and fairies, Wendy, Michael, and John embark on an amazing adventure into a world so unlike ours.

It's bittersweet, it's insightful, it's magical, it's everything and more a child or an adult could ask for in a story. You won't want to leave Neverland, and some days, you may find yourself staring out the window, looking for that hint of light that is Tinkerbell or the boy effortlessly flying between trees and buildings.

Without a doubt the greatest children's story of all time, one that we've all heard, whether it was through a movie or a stage production. Experience the real magic though, and read Barrie's brilliant novel about the boy who won't grow up. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Timeless biblical stories are lovingly brought to a child's level inthis read-aloud treasury. Editor William Bennett (The Children's Book of Virtues)starts with "Daniel in the Lion's Den," a story that epitomizes the courage ittakes to stand firm in one's faith. While he also includes the story of "TheLittle Lost Lamb" (based on Luke 15: 3-7), Bennett is broad-minded enough toinclude numerous other stories that touch upon the meaning of faith withoutbeing biblical in origin. For instance, young readers will be exposed to greatwriters such as Leo Tolstoy in the short story "Where Love Is, God Is" and OscarWilde in "The Selfish Giant." Although the old-fashioned style of illustrationswill no doubt feel nostalgic for some, they are also a throwback to a time whenwhite folks were the only people represented in children's Christian literature.Even Moses has light skin. One of the few characters to actually have color inhis face is the bald, brown-skinned devil. A shameful lapse in an otherwisenoble attempt. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Excellent for both children and parent
I found this book just incredible. The stories are just wonderful for teaching the children valuable lessons and virtues. It's hard to explain the book, other than that my kids enjoyed hearing them, I enjoyed reading them, and the lessons in the stories challenge both child and parent alike.

Could have been broader
Nicely done. It is difficullt to find good books that teach the virtues of faith without being heavy handed. I would have liked a few more faith stories from non-Christian traditions. My seven year old is enjoying it.

FAITHFUL!
This beautiful, gently written and illustrated book will certainly appeal to all ages. It is a delightful presentation of Christianity and, I think, provides a gentle overview of Christian concepts. Young readers will especially appreciate the illustrations. This book is an excellent teaching tool and a good way to form conversations regarding to Christian faiths. It is a treasure and a wonderful part of any family. I really love this book.

Inspirational; not just for children
Where is the greatest source of wisdom in today's society? Despite the common cries of cultural despair, William Bennett has rightly identified the Bible as the source of the moral tenets which we aim to inspire in our children. Although the stories are written in simple, accessible language, children and adults of all ages will be moved and inspired by the simple truths contained herein.

Enlightning
This is one of the great books for children. Besides being entertaining it is educative as well. It works towards improving ones knowledge and faith. This book is a must read and should be there in every family.Some of the chapters are just great and personaly I just loved the book ... Read more

Book Description

The perfect companion to William J. Bennett's number-one bestseller; The Book of Virtues, The Children's Book of Virtues is the ideal storybook for parents and children to enjoy together:

With selections from The Book of Virtues, from Aesop and Robert Frost to George Washington's life as well as Native American and African folklore, The Children's Book of Virtues brings together timeless stories and poems from around the world.

The stories have been chosen especially for a young audience to help parents introduce to their children the essentials of good character: Courage, Perseverance, Responsibility, Work, Self-discipline, Compassion, Faith, Honesty, Loyalty, and Friendship.

Lavishly illustrated by the well-known artist Michael Hague, these wonderful stories and the virtues they illustrate come to life on these pages.

The Children's Book of Virtues is an enduring treasury of literature and art that will help lead young minds toward what is noble and gentle and fine. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Children's Book of Virtues
This is an excellent book to read to your young ones (4+) The stories are old yet the principles are ageless. The children will curl up and live these tales. I find myself truely enjoying this special time. When they get to six or seven I would strongly recommend moving to the Book of Virtues by William J. Bennett. The stories will sweep you and the children away. MY childrens favorite time is reading these stories. They actually ask for the book and seldom does anything else draw such smiles and "Thank You Daddys". Enjoy the experience.

A wonderfully written and beautifully illustrated book!
William Bennett has written the perfect compliment to his Book ofVirtues. The Children's Book of Virtues is an EXCELLENT compilationof classic stories and poems that parents can read to their children. This book is also excellent for beginning readers! I recommend thisbook for every family's bookshelf!

the Satanic Bible
First, let me say that the illustrations are very nice. Why such a talented illustrator would attach their talent to a talentless gambler writing a book on virtues must presuppose a virtue beyond any other; or maybe it's idiocy or money!

The only thing more inexplicable than Bennett thinking he is qualified to write such a book is that parents have actually wasted money on it. As I read through these pages, I became horrified at the possibility of children attempting to learn anything from such a hypocrite (gambling addict). Bennett comes across as the megalomaniac he is: pompous, didactic and arrogant. It requires great effort to view this work as anything but a joke book! It is condescending, patronizing and "high almighty" in its approach and execution.

The persona he puts forth of being "squeaky clean" belies the atrocities he has personally committed. If there is any further proof of the reality of the Right's image of the great deceiver, Satan, then it is personified in an author and a work like this. He encapsulates deception better than anyone.

These pages are ultimately worthless unless you are trying to teach your children about a man without virtues being hypocritical. How ironic.

I AM BIASED ALSO
I had purchased the book "The Educated Child" by Bennett for my
son and daughter-in-law shortly after my granddaughter was born.
They have been using it and I assume they like it.

I work in a bookstore in the children's department and I had been eyeing this "Book of Virtues" for some time. Not only do I think that such a book is important but Hague also happens to be one of my favorite illustrators. So on breaks at work I would read it. It is not all that I had hoped it would be, but it is good.

However, Bennett's bias politically drives me nuts which has made
me biased against purchasing this book. Added to that, his
decision to not only preach against sin but to name the names of
the sinners (in another venue) makes him something less than an
effective moralist and something more like just another loud-mouthed commentator on tv. And then to put the nail in the coffin, there is the recent revelation of his own particular downfall (gambling). Talk about people who live in glass houses!!

None of my own biases against this man has to do with the intrinsic value or lack thereof of the book. But, I have decided that I would find someone more personally worthy of informing me and my grandchild about virtues.

Apparently unfamiliar with current children's books
Apparently William Bennett is unfamiliar with the myriad wonderful books for children written in the last thirty years. The only exception are "famous" people writing now like Barbara Bush. Why not draw on the terrific current literature? My guess is because Bennett would have to pay for that, whereas the older work is in the public domain. What a lost opportunity to speak to kids in terms they can better relate to and to introduce parents to some fine contemporary writers. Of course, this book is actually pitched to parents, not kids, so I doubt appealing to kids is actually his real aim. ... Read more

Book Description

For thousands of years, the legendary dragon has inspired awe and wonder in cultures the world over. Fearsome in strength, ferocious in appetite, yet majestic in bearing, this fabulous beast has long been a favorite subject of artists and storytellers.

Now Michael Hague, one of America's most belovedparnters of fantasy, boldly captures seventeen classic dragon tales, armed only with the magic of his paintbrush. Here beside the heroics of Perseus, St. George, and Sigurd are the adventures of the girl who slew a dragon and became queen of China, as well as the dazzling comic twists of Kenneth Grahame's "The Reluctant Dragon" and E. Nesbies "The Dragon Tamers." Here too are such magical authors as J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, and Italo Calvino.

The mythical dragon will be very real indeed for all who read these enchanting tales and pore over the twenty fullcolor and sixteen black-and-white illustrations. Michael Hague's art has never breathed more fire.

Reviews (9)

Cool Book!
I think this book has cool pictures. They have cool knights. It has different kinds of dragons. I like the stories.

Two claws up!
My boys love this book, which we got for them for Christmas. Some stories are too hard for them (they're six and four), but even the younger one loves looking at the pictures. "Why's this dragon happy? Because he like to eat some people?" "Look at this funny dancing dragon!" "Daddy, this dwagon's cwying. Why?" My older son can read some of the stories, a bit. . . But it might take a few more years to grow into all of them. I enjoy them maybe just as much. The authors are all first rate, and each story seems better than the last, and than the one after it, if that makes sense. All in all, this book is a great idea, well-executed. I should add that I myself am a dragon, and find that the book's square, flat shape makes it a good fire-stop.

A wonderful collection of stories with great illustrations..
This book is perfect for any young person, or person young at heart, who loves dragons. It features many of the marvelous illustrations by that master of fantasy, Michael Hague, accompanying 17 classic tales of dragons and their prey.

The tales range in place setting from China to England, Scandinavia to Narnia. The dragons themselves range from fearsome to foolish, rage-filled to reluctant, and everything in-between. If you or your child love dragons and their stories, don't hesitate to buy this book!

Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaa for dragons!
This is a beautifully illustrated book with many beautiful tales. I sometimes wonder why the dragons are usually the enemies, while the book is titled "The Book of Dragons." My favorite story is "The Dragon and the Enchanted Filly." I like it because the hairs of the filly are magical!

The Book of Dragons
I bought this book for my 6 year old. He loves Dragons. This book has been wonderful. The pictures are great. Some of the stories are a little over his head but he has enjoyed having the other stories read to him. We are enjoying this book specifically devoted to dragons! ... Read more

Book Description

William Bennett and Michael Hague, the team that brought us the national bestseller The Children's Book of Virtues, have once again collaborated to create The Children's Book of Heroes, a beautifully illustrated celebration of heroic deeds, both real and fictional, that will delight and inspire millions of young children and their parents.

"We all need a hero or two to help us stand fast and think right," says William J. Bennett, author of The Book of Virtues, the #1 bestseller that millions of American families turn to for moral inspiration. With excerpts chosen for young children, this new treasury presents splendid tales of the valor and indomitable spirit that are a lasting testament to our cherished values.

Jackie Robinson stands fast on the playing field -- and his strength of character inspires a nation. David slays Goliath -- and his faith and bravery give hope to underdogs everywhere. A little boy goes in search of an angel -- and finds one who guards him day and night: his own mother. From Abraham Lincoln and Mother Teresa to warriors on the battlefield, real moms and dads, and even young girls and boys, here are worthy and heroic figures all kids can look up to and emulate.

The Children's Book of Heroes is a celebration of the endurance, sacrifice, courage, and compassion that characterize truly heroic deeds. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

An interesting mix of historical and fictional heroes
William J. Bennett and Michael Hague, having teamed together to produce the national bestseller "The Children's Book of Virtues," now offer up "The Children's Book of Heroes," which celebrates heroic deeds, both historical and fictional, as appropriate inspiration for children. Certainly it is interesting to see the dozen-plus heroes, from Christopher Columbus and Jackie Robinson to the legendary Sir Roland to a young girl named Tashira, who are presented in this volume.

People might be surprised as to how few religious and political figures are included in this volume given that Bennett is the editor. For the former there are just the Biblical story of "David and Goliath," the story of "Father Flanagan" of Boys Town, and "Mother Teresa" as the epitome of the modern-day heroine. The only political figures, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, appear in episodes well before they each became president with "A Prayer at Valley Forge" and "Honest Abe" respectively. However, one of the better aspects of this book is that some of the stories and poems are not about famous people but rather about a mother ("About Angels"), dads ("Only a Dad"), and even how kids can be heroes by putting themselves on the line for someone they love ("The Hero of Indian Cliffs") and showing moral courage in order to avoiding temptation ("Our Heroes").

Because of my academic interest in mythology I was especially interest in the two classical myths that were selected. The story of Theseus and "The Minotaur" is given as an example of doing the right thing even when afraid of danger while the story of Oedipus and "The Sphinx" is used to remind us that heroes use their brains. This is certainly an interesting pair given what happens to each hero after their defeat these monsters: Theseus and Ariadne never make it back together to Athens and as for Oedipus, well, you probably know what happened to him once he became king of Thebes.

"The Children's Book of Heroes" does indeed present a diverse collection of role models, which at the very least, should expand a child's notion of what constitutes a hero. Each story begins with a brief comment on what the particular life lesson is from that story, for example Jackie Robinson represents "keeping your cool and doing the best you can in a bad situation," which arguably present values that transcend the ideological spectrum.

My Kids are Enthralled
Bennett has edited another fine book that introduces young children to values and charactor while making reading interesting.

This book of heros combines mythical and historical figures with everyday folk (moms and dads) whose actions and charactor speak to the better values that should be taught to children. The book is fairly accessible to ages 4 and 5 -- the gist of the story will usually be understood and there are enough new concepts / words to prompt meaningful discussion. The illustrations are rich and invite children into the story by providing an attractive visual introduction to each vignette.

Bennett continues to provide a great service to parents and children with the series of which the Book of Heros is a part.

More Cultural Bigotry from a Drug War-Criminal
It's not surprising that Bill Bennett has ignored some of the more marginalized of society. Here's some folks YOU WON'T find in Bill Bennett's "heroes"

Saladin: who gave Christians in his domain greater tolerance than the Christians did the Muslims

Ashoka: whose (real) legendary beneficient government is sitll to be matched by the West

I could go on... but suppose, just suppose your "real mom and dad" is a child abuser.

Not all real moms and dads *can or should* be looked up to, and Bennett expresses is profound lack of humanity with such jingoistic nonsense. To suggest that simply because 2 people are have a contract that is ratified at an atavistic ceremony, and have sexual intercourse resulting in the birth of life human somehow makes them "heroes" (when in reality they may be *Republicans*) is obscene.

I wouldn't let my kid near this man's work.

But this isn't surprising- the policies carried out on his watch have needlessly imprisioned *thousands* of real people.

Now there's some heroes he could have put in- the people who are standing up to the tyranny created by Bennett's "War on Drugs."

My kids really love these stories!
I know some of these stories but not all. My 3-year old and 5-year old really sit and listen. They even ask questions about them later.

A must for all parents, forget the politics, buy the book
Has the old with the new, learned along with my children, great book ... Read more

Reviews (2)

More of a picture book
Though the illustrations ARE lovely, the nursery rhymes are incomplete, shortened versions of the real thing. If you want a picture book, you can't go wrong with this one, but for the classic Mother Goose nursery rhymes, sadly, this book does not deliver.

My second perchase of the same book. Book #1 loved to rags.
This is the definative mursery rhyme book. It has all the classics and a few I was not familliar with. Either way, beautifully written. Illistrations you will want to frame, and the children are facinated by at an early age. This will be my 2nd purchase of this title since my grandchildren can't get enough. The more times I read it the closer we have become. This is an heirloom at our house. Hope you enjoy as much as we have. ... Read more

Book Description

Where did America come from? What does it mean to be an American? What makes America great? No volume will provide more compelling and inspiring answers to our children's questions than William Bennett and Michael Hague's marvelous new treasury, The Children's Book of America. Filled with history and folktales, songs and poems, heroes and everyday Americans, this indispensable book is a classic collection of great Americana, accompanied by wonderful paintings that bring to life in rich detail the story of our nation's heritage.

Like its bestselling predecessors, The Children's Book of Virtues and The Children's Book of Heroes, this beautifully illustrated collaboration will provide children with a marvelous introduction to such virtues as compassion, perseverance, ingenuity, and hard work. As William Bennett and Michael Hague show, these traits have shaped American history and lie at the heart of our national character.

Martin Luther King has a dream -- and racial justice in America will never be the same. Walt Whitman listens -- and weaves poetry from the lilting music of Americans at their labors. A great Indian chief mourns -- and the path to his wife's side opens up the Grand Canyon.

From tales of national heroes like Abigail Adams and Robert E. Lee, to stories of adventure and ingenuity such as Lewis and Clark's explorations and Thomas Edison's inventions, to songs and poems about American life like "Home on the Range" and "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot," The Children's Book of America is a marvelous celebration of our nation's history and spirit for the youngest Americans. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Wonderful portrait of America's principles
Bill Bennett again has created a compilation of intrigueing stories that will stimulate young minds and provide a foundation for children to begin to appreciate what it means to be an American. Parents who have ultra-liberal views that America is basically a sexist, racist, homophobic, corrupt, sinister empire should pick another selection. Parents who believe that America is a wonderful place that is the beacon for liberty, freedom and justice, who may have made some mistakes along the way would be well served to provide this valuable educational tool to their children.

Bennett is part of what is wrong with America
This book comes nowhere close to living up to the claim that "no volume will provide more compelling and inspiring answers to our children's questions" about what it means to be an American. It is important to remember that while we might be tempted to buy into the kind of simplistic view Bennett presents in The Children's Book of America, what America was and is and who the people are who have lived and are living here are far more complex than he seems capable of conceiving. His stereotypic images might resonate with some people who long for simplicity and the "good ol' days" that never really were, but telling a story the way one wants to does not make it so, ignoring things one doesn't understand doesn't make them go away, and buying into ignorance is never a good idea. His sanitized vision of America should offend our sensibilities in light of the reality many of us live, and represents the co-opting of our children's education and future for the perpetuation of a grossly unequal and unjust status quo. Rather than serving up the pablum offered to our children by Bennett, we need to help them understand and critique the society in which they live, and prepare them for the kind of participatory democracy that can bring about the kind of social justice and egalitarian society that will permit each of us to live a bit of the American dream. We need to develop more critical and democratic thought than that evidenced by a BarnesandNoble.com customer-reviewer whose attempt at critique concludes,
"The unintentional irony of juxtaposing Martin Luther King's 'dream' speech with blatantly racist folksongs is typical of Bennett's charmingly naive and confused view of morality and virtue. The inclusion of songs and stories promoting racial harmony appears to have been driven by a simple-minded sense of political correctness. But Bennett nonetheless succeeds in providing the children of America with a much needed lesson in patriotism and morality. God knows that the public has completely lost their sense of morality. Thank you, Mr. Bennett, for teaching my children what is good and virtuous." This is part of what is wrong with America.

Great Way to Introduce Young Readers To America
I really liked this book, and so did my children.

Bennett has taken familiar vingettes (Pilgrims, Paul Bunyon, Johnny Apple Seed, Martin Luther King, Jr., moon walk, etc.) and presented them in a short form that is perfect for four to seven year olds and above.

Each story teaches lessons based on core values and can lead to good discussions with children in trying to explain the underlying values. The tales are also a wonderful introduction to the story of our country through our history and myths. They cover the range of the American Experience and are exactly the kind of tales that can serve as a launching pad to introduce youngsters to a wider exploration of our national heritage.

The stories themselves are well written and captivating (though my four year old's attention wandered with some -- it is for older than pre-school on the whole). The illustrations are first rate and help younger children understand the written story.

The format is perfect for bedtime stories -- good length for a one story a night reading. It is also one you'll want to return to again.

Absolutely Wonderful!!
This is a wonderful book for children to become familiar with the people and events that helped shape this great nation. The stories are inspirational and guided by a moral purpose. Our children need to know what a special and great country they live in!

Bennett Teaches Our Children Well
William Bennett has compiled a wonderful collection of American folktales, songs and speeches to make all American children feel good about themselves and their country. The unintentional irony of juxtaposing Martin Luther King's "dream" speech with blatantly racist folksongs is typical of Bennett's charmingly naive and confused view of morality and virtue. The inclusion of songs and stories promoting racial harmony appears to have been driven by a simple-minded sense of political correctness.

But Bennett nonetheless succeeds in providing the children of America with a much needed lesson in patriotism and morality. God knows that the public has completely lost their sense of morality.

Thank you, Mr. Bennett, for teaching my children what is good and virtuous. ... Read more

Book Description

When a dragon is discovered up on the Downs, the Boy is not in the least surprised. He's always known the cave there was a dragon cave, so it seems only right for a dragon to be living in it.

The Boy decides to pay a visit to the cave, and he thinks he knows just what to expect. But this particular dragon is not a bit like the ones in fairy tales!
... Read more

Reviews (6)

Wag the Dog.
This delightful story tells the tale of a boy who meets a kindly dragon on the edge of town. The boy and the dragon become friends and start spending a lot of time together. Then the people of the town find out about the dragon and send for St. George. The boy meets with St. George and takes him to meet the dragon. All three soon become friends and find themselves in a quandry. George doesn't want to kill the dragon and the dragon has no desire to kill George. A plan is hatched and at the end of the story everyone lives happily.

It's really great reading this to younger children. It's got a great message about not prejudging others. It also shows how people can sometimes get everything they want, without anyone having to get hurt by it. That doesn't happen often, but it's nice to be reminded now and again that it can.

A Treasure!
Author of historical fiction.

This book is a treasure for your library. It brings endless pleasure, and is the kind of story that spans all ages.

It is the tale of a boy and his dragon who lives up on the Downs. In spite of the bad reputation dragons have, the boy and he become quick friends. Saint George shows up to do battle with the reluctant lizard, and the boy arranges a mock battle, unbeknown to the villagers that pleases everyone.

Andrew's book Report
(...) THE BOOK IS ABOUT THIS BOY WHO MEETS THIS DRAGON AND THEY
BEACOME FRIENDS THE DRAGON TELLS THE BOY STORY AND NONE ARE
TRUE. BUT ONE IS TRUE THE DRAGONS FAUTHER DIED WHEN A KNIGHT
FOUND OUT ABOUT HIM WHEN THE DRAGON WAS LITTLE. THE KID
HEARS ABOUT A KNIGHT NAMED ST. GEORGE HE TELLS ST. GEORGE
ABOUT THE DRAGON. THE NEXT DAY THE KID SHOWS ST. GEORGE THE
THE DRAGON THE DRAGON DID NOT WHANT TO FIGHT. THE NEXT DAY
ST. GEORGE TOLD SOME OF THE DRAGONS TALES TO THE VILLAGE.
THE TALES WHERE ABOUT KNIGHTS AND DRAGONS FIGHTING. THAT
AFTER NOON THE DRAGON HID IN THE CAVE AND ST. GEORGE FAKED
TO KILL THE DRAGON AND WAS FAMOUS.

(...)

But who Illustrate's This Version - Marlene Ekman?
I love this story but am interested to know the illustrator. If it is Marlene Ekman's illustrations in the hardcover version then it is the best publication. Her pictures add real life to this wonderful child's story.

Reading level is age 8 and above
This is a wonderful story that can be enjoyed by all ages. But because of some of the archaic phrasing I would not recommend it to students under the age of 8. ... Read more

Book Description

The classic action rhyme, featuring Michael Hague's lovable bears, is now available in a sturdy board book format, perfect for sharing with the very young.

Reviews (1)

Teddy Bear Teddy Bear
My granddaughter enjoyed this book so much, that we have it out more than the Library has it in stock. One of the librairians is a neighbor and we had been to the library that day and we searched high and low for this book, to no avail. That evening the neighbor came with book in hand, and my 2 1/2yr old granddaughter was so excited to get her book back, she claims. She can't read but knows it by heart. ... Read more

Book Description

It is glorious to be a pirate king--especially in this full-bodied collection of eleven classic stories and poems by such masters as Robert Louis Stevenson, Arthur Conan Doyle, J. M. Barrie, Washington Irving, and John Masefield. In his dramatic illustrations Michael Hague takes readers to a faraway world filled with adventure, excitement--and danger.

Imagine that you are an orphaned boy watching a trio of fierce pirates burying treasure on a deserted beach. Or a nervous skipper on a long ocean journey, hoping against hope that a dreaded pirate captain is finally captured. Or a reformed pirate who has taken up knitting and then has a memorable slip from his peaceful ways.

Hush--the moon is shimmering on the blue-black sea, and a ragged ship sails silently into sight. Slip aboard--no walking the plank for you! With Michael Hague at the helm, you just might glimpse such legendary characters as Long John Silver, Captain Hook--even Captain Kidd himself!--in this heady mixture of tales from the time when pirates ruled the seas.

Reviews (1)

Oh, To Be a Pirate.....
Ahoy Matey...raise the Jolly Roger and come aboard! With selections from authors Robert Louis Stevenson, Gilbert and Sullivan, John Masefield, Washington Irving, and Arthur Conan Doyle..., award winning illustrator, Michael Hague, has amassed eleven classic poems and stories for this superb collection or pirate tales. These entertaining and engaging stories, full of danger and excitement, are rich in history, drama, mystery, and adventure, and Mr Hague's evocative illustrations bring these tales to life. Some are detailed and expressive pen and ink drawings. Others, bold, lush, and vivid paintings in dark ominous tones. But all transport readers back to a time when blood-thirsty pirates ruled the high seas, searched deserted islands for buried treasure, and walked the plank. Perfect for youngsters 10 and older, The Book Of Pirates is a marvelous and riveting collection of pirate lore that is sure to send imaginations soaring. "Oh better far to live and die/Under the brave black flag I fly.../And it is, it is a glorious thing/To be a Pirate King!" ... Read more

Book Description

Perfect for gift-giving--a classic illustrated by Michael Hague, in a beautifully redesigned edition.

Kenneth Grahame originally wrote The Wind in the Willows to amuse his only son. It has become a classic tale of friendship and adventure, enjoyed by countless children around the world.
... Read more

Reviews (89)

Idyllic, adventurous, poetic, humorous ... truly classic!
Reading a book that is well-established as a classic offers both risks and rewards. The risk is that one's expectations might be too high, leading to disappointment. The reward is that the book matches expectations, leading to thorough satisfaction. Reading Kenneth Grahame's "The Wind in the Willows" is certainly rewarding, but also risky. It's unquestionably a classic, popularized in part by A.A. Milne's dramatization in 1929 under the name "Toad of Toad Hall." Quite honestly, expecting a child-like story, I found it on a higher level altogether, and perhaps even best appreciated by teens and older readers. It has a poetical lyrical quality that could discourage younger readers from completing it on their own.

But that aside, it's not hard to see why this book has stood the test of time. Especially the talking animal protagonists are outstanding. Shy and loyal Mole, clever and courageous Rat, gruff and gentlemanly Badger, and arrogant, adventurous and crazed Toad - the animal characters that populate Grahame's novel are thoroughly individual, real, and loveable, despite their individual quirks. They are distinctly animal-like, and yet aspects of their life (food - transport - clothing) are distinctly human, enabling us to identify with them quickly and easily and yet be charmed by their differences. Toad does ultimately repent from his conceited egotism "Henceforth I will be a very different Toad", although we cannot help get the feeling that this is not the first time he has embarked on a road of repentance only to be ambushed again by his old nature. All of this is portrayed with poetic lyricism, as well as warm sympathy and humour.

There is something here for everyone. When the friends aren't lazily floating down the river or indulging their appetites, they are worrying about Toad's latest escapades with motor-boats or automobiles. Readers will find themselves attracted to the rustic, quiet and cozy life of companionship on the river, or else the neverending action that ensues as Toad follows his selfish passions and gets himself into trouble and the climax as Toad and his friends seek to recapture Toad Hall from evil weasels, ferrets and stoats. While the final battle offers thrills, Toad's "education" is undoubtedly a good lesson for us all. Grahame's animal world offers much food for thought for humans in the real world. Visiting this fantasy world is not escapist, because it better equips us to live in the real world.

If there is any criticism, it might be that the novel does not work the aspects of introspection and adventure together cohesively and so does not always function well as a whole. The shift from pastoral introspection to madcap adventure and back is at times too great. But even if the snap-shots of "The Wind in the Willows" 's fantasy world are somewhat fragmented, in the end it's the characters of this world that make it so convincing and successful. With their successful combination of idyllic companionships and adventurous mishaps, Mole, Rat, Badger and Toad will continue to make new friends of readers in years to come. -GODLY GADFLY

One of the Greats
Only Kipling's Jungle book, rivals this as the classic talking animal book for children. With his beautiful prose, Grahame evokes laughter, suspense, pleasure and even awe. Water Rat, Mole, Badger, Otter, and the insufferable Toad quickly gain our interest and sympathy. If you buy it to read to children, beware! You may not be able to resist reading ahead a few chapters after you put them to bed. This is a book not to be missed. The scene in which Pan appears as the animals' protector inspired a song by Van Morrison, and a mention in Jane Goodall's book, A Reason for Hope. From it a child of any age will get fun, wonder, and a demonstration of the beautiful possibilities of the English language.

A primer on friendship
The Wind in the Willows is a delightful children's classic that touches upon many things; wonder, pastoralism, but most of all friendship between individuals very different from one another. One of the hallmarks of this classic is that the adventure stories remain entertaining to this day. A must read for any child.

Check your Text
In response to the 5 star reviewer, I encourage her to check her text's publication date. I used the Scholastic version of The Wind in the Willows for years and up until 2 years ago it was an unabridged version. That older version has been replaced by the Miles version, however, which is not unabridged. I discovered this by accident when I ordered it for my classes--believing I was getting the old Scholastic version--and found that the version my students received bore little resemblance to the one I had. Hence my warning about this text. The Miles version is NOT the one Scholastic used to offer and it IS drastically altered.

Uneven Version
"Wind" is the charming story of four friends living near the river bank - Mole, Badger, Rat and Toad. The story follows their adventures in the Wide World, and how true friendship keeps them together through "thick and thin."

Unfortunately, the story loses some of its appeal in this video version. It tells the tale well enough, but it just doesn't have the feel of a "classic." Sometimes, you have to read the book to fully appreciate it!

Good, not great. Three stars. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

a grat learning book
This book is a great book for learning your numbers! You should read it for your own sake. It will definitely help you learn your numbers. If you have kids buy this book and read it to them you will not be sad about what you did. It will help their memory and give them a few tricks for counting. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Like its sister holiday, Christmas, Easter has become a cultural event as well as a religious holiday. And because traditional Easter customs also represent pagan celebrations of spring and renewal, there is much information for children to digest this time of year. Recognizing and sorting these diverse and fascinating elements in an Easter anthology is quite an ambitious task. Fortunately, renowned illustrator Michael Hague (of The Velveteen Rabbit, The Teddy Bears' Picnic, and The Wizard of Oz) pulls it off with great success. In fact, there are three key reasons why this anthology will become a lifetime keeper. First, the anthology is sensibly divided into four sections: "A Time of Faith" speaks to spiritual belief in a time of death and darkness; "A Time of Rebirth" celebrates the themes of resurrection and renewal; "A Time of Celebration" explores the traditions of eggs, baskets, and bunnies; and "A Time of Love" glorifies nature's wonders and the renewal of a season. Second, the selections are exquisite, with beloved classics such as Oscar Wilde's "The Selfish Giant," William Blake's "Spring," and F.E. Corne's "Whythe Easter Bunny Lays Eggs." Third, Hague's generous pastel-and-watercolor illustrations are child-pleasing and versatile--shadowy and somber as Mary mourns the death of her son, and joyfully sunny for stories such as"The Boy Who Discovered Spring." This fine treasury is a wonderful resource for any family that celebrates Easter. (All ages) --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great For a Family Tradition
...This one caught my eye for several reasons. Michael Hague is a British illustrator who usually illustrates fairy tales and classics like Peter Pan. He's not my "all-time favorite" in terms of style, but he does a good, quality job.

What really got my attention was the table of contents. The book is divided into four sections, each one starting with one of the four resurrection accounts (note: the "sacred art" is not that great on some of the pictures - a little scary!). Then there are stories, hymns and poems grouped according to four themes: "A Time of Faith," "...Rebirth", "...Celebration," and "...Love."Stories include "The Selfish Giant" by Oscar Wilde, "The Maid of Emmaus," "The Boy Who Discovered Spring," "Why The Easter Bunny Lays Eggs," "Bramble and Buckwheat' by Ethel Pochocki (note: who also wrote "Once Upon A Time Saints," a book we had growing up), "The White Blackbird" by Padraic Colum (great author), and "The Rat-Catcher's Daughter." Lots of poems by William Blake, Rossetti, Hopkins, and Aileen Fisher. Well, I bought the book this Christmas...I remembered to bring it out this Easter. It's about the size of a kid's picture book, but thicker (133 pp), and the cover is beautiful! So are the title pages and contents. We started reading it on Easter afternoon (I always cry at "The Selfish Giant's" ending...note: my kids (age 7-down) really liked the "Selfish Giant!") I really liked the hymns and poems. And most of the illustrations were really good (like I said, the resurrection ones weren't that great). The kids have been looking through it over and over. Even though they can't read the stories, they love the pictures. Oh, there's also a section on Easter customs from around the world that I look forward to reading.

So we'll be looking forward to bringing out this book in our home as an Easter tradition, and I recommend it for other families who are in the market for the same kind of book.

Not-too-happy Easter
I was hoping from its description that this book would offer a sort of Unitarian Universalist explanation of Easter and its symbols - one my young children would be able to understand and appreciate, without being scared. Unfortunately we started with the Oscar Wilde tale of the scary giant who eventually meets a boy with big holes in his wrists and immediately dies. Uh...what? Not good bedtime material. We tried some others that were more factual, but unfortunately they either completely blew the cover off the Easter bunny or read like dry essays. The illustrations are pretty, but I'm sending this one back.

Beautiful stories, beautiful artwork
The stunning illustrations will draw you and your children in to this book, where you'll find wonderful stories -- some of which have overtly spiritual themes, some which explain Easter traditions, and others which are just fun. The shorter poems can be read to younger children. I would have given this book 5 stars except that it quotes from the King James Version of the Bible - please, authors, give us more kids books that use age-appropriate versions of the Bible. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Children enamored with the notion of fairies will drink up Kathleen andMichael Hague's lush picture book like nectar. When a mother is asked by herchild about how fairies spend their days and nights, she embarks on a dreamyaccount of these mysterious, magical creatures. For starters, fairies hang thestars in the sky each evening "so every child will have a night-light." Theyalso teach birds to sing, paint the wings of butterflies, comb mermaids' hair,and sleep "on leafy beds in secret gardens." The wondering child falls asleep tothese poetic musings, welcomed to dreamland by the fairies.

Lyrical colored-pencil and watercolor illustrations, filled with elaboratedetail, accompany this gentle bedtime story. Readers are challenged to find andcount all 321 winged fairies in the book, and to look for the red-capped fairyhiding on each page. The author-illustrator team has paired up on severalbestselling titles, including TenLittle Bears and Alphabears. (Ages 3 to 7)--Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Captivating
My 3 yr old is enamored with fairies and this is by far her favorite book. The illustrations are outstanding, appreciated by both adult and child. She loves to hunt through and find all the hidden animals and faces in tree trunks, some lovely but some scary (she loves the scary ones!). With the attention span of a gnat, she is easily bored with long stories, but even the pages with the most writing hold her interest, besides there is great variety in each page. It captivates her imagination and she refers to often when walking in the woods and looking for fairies. This is the kind of quality book I miss from my childhood and is too hard to find in modern publications.

Whimsical and Magical - What Could Be Better!
Welcome to a wonderful tale of fairies. To a book of pure magic. 'Good Night, Fairies' takes you away to a magnificent land where fairies comb mermaids' hair, paint butterflies' wings and teach unicorns to fly. The story line on each page is short, thus even very little ones stay entranced in the fantasy world of fairies. It is a book, that even as an adult, you will be mesmerized by the beautiful pictures of fairies sleeping on leaves in secret gardens, dancing in the moonlight in spider's silk and hanging stars in the sky so children will have a nightlight. Children, afterall, are the closest thing to fairies! So what could be better than fairies welcoming little ones to dreamland as they drift off to sleep.

Bedtime on Fairies' Wings.....
There is nothing so wonderful as the magical, whimsical world of fairies. Join mother and child at bedtime, as she lulls her little one to sleep with enchanting details about these tiny winged creatures who help make the world a special place to live. Fairies hang the stars in the sky at night, so that every child will have a night-light, paint the colorful wings of butterflies, teach birds to sing, and unicorns to fly. They comb mermaids' hair, draw rainbows to cheer up the dark rainy sky, make the spring flowers bloom, and scatter the autumn leaves. But most of all, fairies love little children. "Of all the world's creatures, there is nothing so like a fairy as a child....." Husband and wife team, Kathleen and Michael Hague, have authored the perfect bedtime story. Everything about this picture book is elegant, engaging, and exquistite, from the beautiful script font, and quiet, soothing prose, to the marvelously intricate, lush, and expressive illustrations. Together word and art offer a gentle, sweet, and lovely trip to dreamland. Perfect for youngsters 3-7, with 321 little winged friends to discover and count, and a special red-capped fairy hidden on every page to find, Good Night, Fairies is a masterpiece, and a reassuring bedtime treasure to share and enjoy every night of the year.

Pure Magic!
Husband and wife team, Kathleen and Michael Hague have done it again! I have long been a fan of Michael Hague's lovely evocative illustrations and Kathleen's gentle prose for children but this book really is the perfect combination of their extensive talents. In a flowing script-like font the story takes us on a journey to Fairyland when a child asks his mother to tell him some things about fairy ways just as he is getting tucked into bed for the night. The mother knows lots of secret things about fairies. In Kathleen's light-hearted, kindly prose the mother explains that among many other things, they teach the birds how to sing, gather and care for all the toys that children have lost, comb the mermaids' hair, and dance in the twilight dressed in spiders' lace. Richly colored and filled with exquisite detail the double page illustrations are on every page so there are no dull pages with only text. Beautiful fairies and whimsical little gnomes and pixies crowd each page and engage in the many magics of the fairy realm. Mermaids of different races and ages relax and luxuriate in an ocean cove. There is one tiny fairy with a red cap that is hidden on each page so that a child may have the fun of pouring over the colorful details and searching to find him. The Hagues tell us that there are a total of 321 fairies in this book and challenge us to find all of them. This is a wonderful book to share with a child. I highly recommend it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Conservative champion of ethics William J. Bennett loves to writeprimers on character building. This hefty three-part treasury brings togetherthree of Bennett's previous primers aimed for young children: The Children'sBook of Virtues, The Children's Book of Heroes, and The Children'sBook of America. In his new introduction, Bennett explains why he believesstories are the key to raising morally sound children. "Even in an age ofcomputer games and electronic toys, you can't beat a good story--especially whenoffered by a caring adult--for capturing a child's attention," he writes."Legends, folk tales, biographies, and poems ... serve as reference points on amoral compass, giving children a clear sense of direction in matters of rightand wrong."

Even folks who don't agree with Bennett's politics often agree with theoverriding lessons in these age-old stories. Famous selections include, "St.George and the Dragon," "George Washington and the Cherry Tree," tributes toAbraham Lincoln and Jackie Robinson, and Martin Luther King's famous "I Have aDream" speech. Put this lavishly illustrated book by a child's bed so he or shecan revisit these stories before drifting off to sleep. After all, this is thestuff that great dreams are made of. --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A wonderful fireside/bedtime book
If you are looking for a good set of stories to read to your children, look no further! This is a collection of 3 other titles edited by Bill Bennett, and illustrated by the phenomenal Michael Hague. The stories are a good length for reading to young squirrly children, and are well written. They are heroic and thoughtful. This edition would also make a welcome gift for a family you care about.

An excellent collection
I bought this book for my 5 and 3 years old children and we all enjoy this book very much. The stories, though mostly well known tales, are written well and can be read out loud nicely. They vary in lengths (from short poems to stories several pages long), and they also vary in their complexity suitable for children of various ages. Illustrations are on every page. All the stories end on a positive note. They teach children about perseverence, love, honor, and justice. This is a welcome addition to our huge collection of children's stories. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Doctor Dolittle--a 19th-century English physician--has never been one for worrying much. Even after his human patients desert him (when one too many sit on one of the doctor's unusual parlor pets), he manages to convert gracefully to animal medicine. Having mastered animal language along the way (with the help of his caustic yet amusing parrot, Polynesia), he has a good head start in his practice. Then, one cold, dark winter night, as the doctor and his pets sit around the fire, a message arrives, via sparrow, from Africa. A terrible epidemic has broken out among the monkeys, and Doctor Dolittle is the only one who can save them. The beneficent physician checks his money box--not a penny left. But the fate of Africa's ailing apes lays squarely on his shoulders.

And so begins the delightful, whimsical adventures that are still enthralling readers three quarters of a century after their original 1920 publication. Hugh Lofting, winner of the 1923 Newbery Medal for The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle, has more than a knack for storytelling. His ability to imbue in his characters--human and animal--distinct, unique personalities is remarkable, and his respect for the rights of all who share the planet shines throughout. (Ages 9 to 12) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Great read-aloud selection
I read this book to my two children, ages 7 and 3. Both children were completely mesmerized and could hardly wait for the next day's installment. A bit of editing was necessary while reading to tone down certain parts, especially those dealing with the pirates (who threatened to eat poor Gub-Gub the pig) and the leaving-behind of some of their favorite animal characters, Polynesia the parrot and Chee-Chee the monkey. The illustrations were especially well-received, and could easily be presented at the appropriate points in the story to illustrate exactly what was being read. All in all, we thoroughly enjoyed this book and are looking forward to purchasing the sequel, which is the one I remember from my own childhood, _The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle_.

THE STORY OF DOCTOR DOOLITTLE
I bought this for my son for his eighth birthday, he loves it so much that he is reading it to himself. This is the first book that he has ever carried around with him, actually reading while he is walking around. This was the first chapter book that my older son read. We had barrowed a paperback edition from a friend. I am so glad that I bought this edition, it's a great story, and the illustrations are wonderful! My younger son got a bike, game cube,and game boy games, for his birthday. But, this book is favorite gift... I think that says it all!

The Best Doctor Ever
The book The Story of Doctor Dolittle by Hugh Lofting is a non-fictional chapter book. It has adventure, excitement, and a guy who really likes animals. It has excitement of every sort. So read on to find out more about The Story of Doctor Dolittle by Hugh Lofting.

An amazing Doctor travels off to the far lands of Africa to cure the sick monkeys. Nobody else can figure out what is wrong, but the Doctor has learned the animal languages and can speak to the animals. If he cures the monkeys it will be up to you to find out. On his journey into the jungles and out of the jungles of Africa he will encounter many things that will hold him back. He will also say good-bye to some of his beloved animals.

I think this book is more aimed for children in the 4th, 5th, and 6th grades but I am sure anybody would enjoy it. The book is not like the movie Doctor Dolittle, so you won't be reading something you already know about. So go and get The Story of Doctor Dolittle. I promise you will enjoy it.

THE BEST BOOK
I've read this book about a 100 times. The first time, my grandpa read it to me when I was about 5. My grandpa read it out of his book that he got when he was little. Now he past it down to me. I loved and love this book, all those grandpas out there read it to your grandkids.Girl or boy, young or old this is a really good for everyone.

The Adventures of Doctor Domuch
I would recommend this book to anyone who asked me for a book. It is action packed, funny,but most of all it is interesting. When I read it I felt like the narrator. The snail was my favorite character. The book is very long but when you get into it, you can't stop reading it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Conservative social critic and former Bush "drug czar" William J.Bennett collects here over 30 secular fables, prayers, Bible stories, and poems,all devoted to a central theme: "reinforcing the vital lessons all parents mustteach" about home and family life.

Some of the entries address intersibling relations (like "The Hill," adaptedfrom Laura Richards, and Aesop's classic "The Bundle of Sticks"), while othersfocus on the love of husbands and wives for their children ("What Bradley Owed,"adapted from Hugh T. Kerr) and for one another ("The Water of Youth," adaptedfrom Rudolph Baumbach). Poems and prayers from Alfred, Lord Tennyson ("What DoesLittle Birdie Say?") and Robert Louis Stevenson ("Prayer for Home and Family")help class up the book, complementing Michael Hague's '50s-style,quasi-Rockwellian illustrations.

While many of the lessons imparted here are inarguably "vital," parents shouldbeware that the book still carries some not-so-subtle political freight, whichyou might or might not buy into: As Bennett makes clear in his grownup books(The Broken Hearth: Reversing theMoral Collapse of the American Family, etc.), references to "husband andwife" mean that and only that. Likewise, don't be surprised by antiquated takeson gender roles (as in "The Husband Who Was to Mind the House") and that theonly black characters in the book have tribal names like Keen-Eyes, Sharp-Ears,and Strong-Arms. (The sole Hispanic family lucks out with some good Catholicnames, but Hague's proto-Israelites in a King Solomon story still look prettyconventionally European.) (Ages 9 to 12) --Paul Hughes ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The nurturing qualities of home and family.
I've recommended this book to family and friends. It's filled with delightful stories, poems and quotations that celebrate the love of husband and wife, parents, grandparents and children. It contains some of the best from Robert Louis Stevenson, Louisa May Alcott, Lord Tennyson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and the Old and New Testament. (A few illustrations merit 4 stars instead of 5.)

A very disappointing book.
A very disappointing book. Poorly presented. Uninteresting. Badly written. Morally unedifying. This is how my 10 year old summed up his present (this book) after a day long read. After perusing it myself I must agree. Buy Dr.Seuss's The Lorax instead. Do not buy unless as a gift for a child you do not like. ... Read more

Book Description

In stories, songs, and poems, fairies have lived tantalizingly close to human folk for centuries. Unpredictable and elusive, they've brought luck and done harm, while people have longed for a glimpse of their magical world.

In his illustrations for this rich and varied collection, Michael Hague, one of America's most beloved painters of fantasy, creates a fabled world that belongs to the fairies. There is the lost flower fairy Thumbelina, the cruel and clever goblins of Christina Rossetti's Goblin Market, and the invisible creatures of James Barrie's Lock-out Time. Readers will also meet a helpful brownie, a girl with an unlucky name, and two elves who act like playground bullies!

Readers will find themselves transported to fairyland as they read these delightful works and savor the mesmerizing full-color and black-and-white illustrations. Michael Hague's art has never been so enchanting. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

FUN
I bought this book for my 10 yr old niece who still can see the faery magic and I now plan to buy one for myself.
Wonderful stories and descriptions of different faery are surrounded buy enchanting artwork.
This book is appropriate for any age!

THESE PICTURES ARE BEAUTIFUL!!
VERY INTENSE. YOU WILL LOVE THIS BOOK , YOU WILL ALSO NEED TO GET MICHEAL HAGUE'S MAGICIAL WORLD OF UNICORNS. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPOINTED.

Art book or story book? You decide.
One could as easily buy this book for the illustrations as for the stories. Either one justifies the purchase price while the other makes this book a prize. While I was trying to read the book, my 12-year-old daughter kept taking it from my desk to read a story at bedtime, and my best friend, who is an artist, wanted to borrow it to study the drawings and paintings.

"The Book of Fairies" begins with an excerpt from "Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens" by J. M. Barrie. "Lock-out Time" is a charming story which introduces readers to the fairy world. As Mr. Barrie says, "One of the great differences between the fairies and us is that they never do anything useful." He goes on to explain the origin of fairies, "When the first baby laughed for the first time, his laugh broke into a million pieces and they all went skipping about. That was the beginning of fairies." I had heard that saying before but never knew from where it came. This story is about the fairy ball that goes on in Kensington Gardens once the gates are locked. The story came alive for m