Reviews (35)

Two young girls cope with shipwreck, babies, a grumpy hermit
This book is a great story of two great women-in-the-making. Shipwrecked and alone, young Scots Mary and Jean are unfailingly clever at finding food, water, shelter, and just about everything else they need for the babies whose lives they save, and the grumpy old hermit whose life they rescue. At the same time, they are real girls - singing, playing, crying, praying, and taking care of each other. Read this book to sons and daughters both for examples of strong, brave children, and read it yourself for a laugh and nostalgic look back at childhood. I've been looking for Baby Island for 25 years and am thrilled to find it again!

I am SMILING!!
I am so thrilled to know that I am not the only Baby Island fan. I read this book SO many times as a child that I had parts memorized. I loved it so much. I still have my copy and the front cover that got "loved" off. The other weird thing is that I also liked the book Caddie Woodlawn but never made the connection that Carol Ryrie Brink wrote them both. What a talented authoress she is! This book is GREAT and an old friend.

True Survival
"Reality survival" T.V. programs seem pretty tame after reading this story. ANYONE who gets marooned on a desert island could figure out how to survive...for at least a few days. Now try it with four infants. THAT would send most of us over the edge, hmmm?
Mary and Jean are only little girls themselves, yet they are faced with the responsibilities of feeding and caring for themselves and four babies. And they do a right fine job of it!
I first read this book 40 years ago, when I was about the same age as Mary and Jean. I've saved that book all of these years and re-read it from time to time. It's a delightful story that every little girl should get a chance to read! (Mary and Jean certainly could have taught the folks on Gilligan's Island a thing or two!)

Fantasy Island, but Lots of Fun
This fun book comes from Carol Ryrie Brink, the author who brought us Caddie Woodlawn, and while shorter and not quite up to the standards set by that great book, is one that kids are sure to enjoy.
Written in 1937 it tells the tale of two girls, 12 year old Mary and her younger sister Jean, who rescue four babies and end up floating alone with them in a lifeboat in the middle of the ocean when the steamliner they are sailing on begins to sink. The quick thinking and good sense of the girls pulls them through when they run aground on a small deserted tropical island. This book was written in a "kinder, gentler" time than our own and thank goodness because the children do not experience anything traumatic or terribly frightening. They mostly exhibit plucky courage and try to do things properly with their little charges, one infant and three active toddlers. There is plenty of humor and adventure in the book, but not much realism. They easily find clean water, food and shelter, but this isn't a reality show it's a children's fantasy. The childcare methods have changed somewhat over the years and that makes the story seem rather quaint, but I found that all the more endearing. The girls insist upon having a church service every Sunday even though that only consists of singing hymns and reciting the 23rd Psalm, the only Bible passage they know by heart. Again, this is quaint but interesting and sweet. I think most modern day children will love the story and enjoy imagining what they would do under similar circumstances. This is not much like other "deserted island" stories such as Swiss Family Robinson, Robinson Crusoe or even Island of the Blue Dolphins in terms of action, but it is similar to those in its ability to transport and to kindle the imagination. Check it out.

Great for boys too
My fourth grade teacher read this book to us a chapter at a time and we were all so eager for the next day's reading. One of the very best childhood books ever. Many reviewers are commenting that it is a great girls book, but I and the other boys in class loved it too. I'm 45 now and when I chanced on a copy of Baby Island in a used book store I snatched it up. After all those years it was still a great read. ... Read more

Book Description

Double born.
Twice the blessing.

Double kids.
Twice the messing.

Twins mean double the kisses and double the fun. It's double the joy for everyone! ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Terrific Twins
I had to write in to say how much we enjoyed Twin to Twin. This adorable little book is so fresh and fabulous. I don't have twins, exactly, but two children 15 months apart, and so when a friend told me about T to T, I picked it up and could totally relate. I can't wait for more from Ms. O'Hair!

Twin to Twin a Win!
This is a delightful funny and touching rhymimg picture book.
Sure to please little ones with it's bouncy rhythm and adults with it's tender observations. Twin to Twin is sure to become a classic, and not just for twins either!

Sweet story!
This is a wonderful twin story with a sweet rhyme and great illustrations. It is the perfect addition for the twins in your life. I gave it to a three-year-old with newborn twin siblings, and he just can't get enough of it. I recommend it highly.

ADORABLE!
This is a delightful book. It gives us a humorous peek into what parents of twins are up against. Even early readers will enjoy its short and sweet verse: "Double shirts. Double jeans. Belly buttons in between." And the illustrations are heart-warming! TWIN TO TWIN is a book that I'll keep on my "Special" shelf to read again and again. I'm looking forward to more children's books from the talented Margaret O'Hair.

Enchanting Picture Book For Families and Teachers
I intended to buy this book for a friend expecting twins, but had to get one for myself. The charming illustrations in baby hues grabbed me first. I couldn't stop turning the pages with right-on rhyme that made this mom chuckle. Parents of any little ones will want this by their bedside for nightly storytime. I'm also going to use it in my 1st grade class because I believe in the power of language. This new author not only has a "niche" book for families with twins, but a book all children will want to hear again and again (and will be soon chiming in with the rhymes). ... Read more

Book Description

When Max's Chocolate Chicken was first published in 1989, School Library Journal cheered, "It's cause for celebration when rabbit toddler Max and his bossy sister Ruby return to share another holiday with young readers." Now Dial is proud to present this wonderful story in an updated board book format, featuring a bright new cover illustration and fresh design.Max and Ruby are going on an Easter egg hunt, and Ruby has declared that whoever finds the most eggs will win the chocolate chicken that someone put in the birdbath. "No eggs, no chicken, Max," warns Ruby as her brother wanders off to investigate ants and acorns. But, as always, Max gets the last word—and the chocolate chicken! ... Read more

Reviews (10)

My kids love this book
The best part about this book is realizing -- after several readings -- how Ruby, the older sister, tries to manipulate her little brother by telling him he has to win an egg hunt to win the chocolate chicken. But of course, big sister gets humbled (and her own chocolate chicken) in the end.
This book is my kids' favorite Max and Ruby book, but they are all good, especially Bunny Cakes.

Mitchell LOVED reading this Rosemary Wells book!
I am a 2nd grader at Anna Merritt Elementary School. My name is Mitchell. I have been reading books by Rosemary Wells. My favorite book is MAX'S CHOCOLATE CHICKEN. My favorite part was when Max took the chocolate chicken and hid. He hid so his sister wouldn't find him.

Love it or leave it.
I think the previous reviewer (tabris02) has given good advice. This book will either resonate with you or it won't. We received it as a gift and were a bit puzzled by it, asking grandma, "What kind of lesson are you trying to teach our toddler?" The bulk of the story was cute, as Max mucked about in the yard while Ruby single-mindedly found every Easter egg. But the ending didn't sit well with me...selfishness with no remorse or consequences or even awareness of his sister's feelings. Years later, with three kids, I realize that siblings will learn to be competitive and selfish even without seeing those traits demonstrated in books. So, I've lightened up a bit. But I still don't find myself reaching for this book on our shelf. Of the Max and Ruby stories, I prefer Bunny Cakes. Another of our favorite Rosemary Wells books is Fritz and the Mess Fairy (Fritz is a slob who during one amazing night tries to make it up to his family by cleaning the entire house and fixing them breakfast in bed. In the process, he makes a huge mess again in the kitchen...but his efforts to improve himself and express his love to his family are very endearing!).

poor Ruby..
..thinks her younger brother has stolen the only chocolate chicken!! I can imagine little brothers acting just like Max. Another my daughter loves to have read to her.

I'd recommend library-reading it first
I found this Max book to be mean-spirited. My kids own just about all the other Max books and we enjoy them. My son can sing some of them (to his own tune) and my one-year-old could recite passages from a few of the board books.

I like Max as a mischievous child, but in this one he seemed a little nastier than I felt comfortable sharing with my children. He breaks the rules and gets away with it. This isn't a hands-down non-recommendation of this particular book, but parents ought to be forewarned and maybe preview the book for free from the library before buying it. All of the other Max books are keepers and re-readers, but I found that for my particular household, this book was not a keeper even though we have thoroughly enjoyed all the others. ... Read more

Book Description

Illus. in black-and-white by Denise Brunkus. Trouble crops up because of an

unusual misunderstanding--Junie B. starts to think that her newborn brother is

really a baby monkey! "Chapter book readers will be laughing at Junie's antics

as well as her way with words."--Booklist.




... Read more

Reviews (26)

Junie B. Review
Junie B. Jones is very excited to hear that her parents have a big surprise for her. She envisions wonderful gifts and presents that she may receive. She is horribly shocked to hear that her big surprise is a baby coming!! She does not have a positive attitude about this baby coming. She calls the nursery the dumb baby's room. The big day finally comes when mother has the baby. She enjoys having her grandparents all to herself. Grandmother says the baby is so cute, but her description doesn't sound so cute to Junie B. Junie has a difficult time dealing with this baby and gets into some trouble at school as usual. In the end, Junie B. begins to accept the baby and says that he's the most cutest little monkey she's ever seen.
My kindergarten and first grade students enjoy these books very much. These books are the ones that spark the interest and really get the independent reading going on. These are the first chapter books my students use. They enjoy the content. They understand the humor. They have a devoted interest to the love of reading. Most parents have told me that they are forced to sit while their child reads aloud to them like we do at school with the utmost expression. One is not able to read Junie B. without screaming due to all of the exclamation points!!
There is some controversy with the content. Junie B. does have a negative attitude. She backtalks and calls classmates and other adults names. She is rarely disciplined, but in class we use these times as an opportunity to discuss her behavior and if it is right or wrong. This has opened the door for discussions on manners and respect, that may not have come up otherwise. Children do need some guidance with these chapter books, of this age that I am speaking of (5-7), for the reading of the words and also the behavior of this character. But the end result has been positive for my students and they have learned to love reading and they go on to other types of literature.

Junie B Jones and a Little Monkey Business (#2)
Junie B's mom is having a baby. But then Junie B thinks her brother is a monkey. Lucille and Grace give her their stuff so they can see him first. Is Junie B's brother really a monkey? Read the book to find out.

Supper
This book is supper dooper book. I like it how she acts. She acts like not a fife years old girl but like ten years old. She used not a nice words like:
Stuped
Dumb
Meany...

This book is good for children who are in 1-3 grades. She is going to have a brother, but she don't wan't to.. Example "I don't wan't to have a bunny dumb brother!" And I really recomend to read this book.

The best book in the world
Would you believe that your brother was a monkey? Well in Junie B. Jones and a Little Monkey Business by Barbara Park, a little girl named Junie B. Jones thinks that she is going to get a monkey for a brother because her grandma said that her brother was as cute as a monkey! I like this book because it was funny, very funny. I think that this book told me don't believe everything you hear. Is her brother a monkey or not? Read more to find out.

Park Should Stop Monkeying Around
Given all the attention this author and her books receive from both the publishing and bookselling communities, I expected to read breakout children's literature from this series. Park is obviously a gifted storyteller, so it's disturbing that she presents that promise through a clumsy, low-rent writing style that is supposed to represent the boorish behavior of her protaganist, Junie B. Jones.

Perhpas these books say more about the real Park than her fictional character. Like Junie B., subtlety is not Park's strength as a writer; her text is full of exclamation points, capital letters and oftentimes a combination of the two not to mention bad grammar and diction. So the question is: Is Junie B the obvious result of a crude writer? The text reads a little bit too contrived to suggest otherwise.

Park tries to put a noble spin on this crudity by incorporating definitions to words and phrases throughout the story. That's her best yarn of all - a boorish mess that is actually a primer in disguse. WOW! GUYS! WHO KNEW!! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

"Can't Go Wrong With Little Critter"
We are huge fans of Little Critter, so I knew we couldn't go wrong with The New Potty. The story contains typical elements found in many potty books: introduction to the new potty, playing with the new potty, accidents, transition to underpants, and eventual success. What sets all Mayer books apart? The critters talk and act like real life children. And the illustrations are a hoot! Such as the look of terror on Little's Sisters face when greeted with the pink "Critter Potty." Or Little Critter hollering for Mom when his sister misses the potty and almost wets his foot. And that pet mouse...

We have read almost every potty book available on the market as of 9/2003 (over two dozen!). Most fit into two categories: INSTRUCTIONAL books that introduce the skills needed to master the potty; and those that are primarily ENTERTAINING, for children who understand what is supposed to happen on the potty, but need extra time to make it happen. This book contains a little instruction and a lot of entertainment. Try it!

Worried That Your Child Will Never Use the Toilett?
We bought this book as well as several other books, when we noticed our child wasn't buying into our advice about how convenient it is for him as well as his parents that he use the toilett, we resorted to this method and it seemed to work all by itself with little influence from the adults. We simply sat down and read it to him and voila.. it worked. I have no idea which book hat the most influence but this was one of them.

i think i memorized it ?
This book is short and sweet. My girl still loves it many years after she trained. It is cute and kinda is more for girls. Is there one like it for boy's from Mercer Mayer? The sand box accident is her favorite or was it the accident when brother helped? I liked it when mom was doing laundry and she asked brother to take sister to the potty? The look on his face !

The New Potty
What a great learning tool! My daughter loves this book. She is successfully potty trained! Yeepee! This book describes everything, even the time when purchasing the potty chair. It even describes "accidents", which let her know that they will happen and that it is OK. I love the way the entire family helps with the potty training. This will be very helpful when my younger child starts potty training! Great book! Good luck!

The New Potty a Kid Favorite
My son loves this book! We actually now have two - one for home and one when he travels to the sitter or grandparents' house, etc. The picures are colorful and attract your immediately. The story is simple and gets the whole family involved in the potty training process. It is very positive and easy to understand so little ones can follow the meaning. I (and my son) highly recommend it. My son feels it is a 'must read' when going to the potty. ... Read more

Book Description

It is natural for young children to be curious about where they come from. Using vivid full-color photographs and a clear, straightforward text, this comprehensive book answers the questions they have about how an egg cell grows to become a baby, how a baby lives inside its mother's uterus, and how a baby is born.

Reviews (4)

A Great Beginning for the That Difficult Talk
Every parent dreads that moment. You know the one I mean- that moment when your child begins to ask about S-E-X. This book is a wonderful aid to help you through it.

Most experts suggest only giving as much information as a child is ready for, and answering the questions as they come up. This book is wonderful for the beginning stages of this process when your child wants to know where babies come from, but is neither ready for nor interested in the details of conception. This book has beautiful pictures of babies in utero in various stages of development and gently discusses the development of the fetus, the birth of the baby (in a non-graphic but honest way), and the excitement of welcoming a new life into the world.

I bought this for my eight year old, but it is gentle and non-graphic enough that my 3 year old loves it, as well. In fact, I wish I'd had this book when I was pregnant with my younger child. This would be a wonderful book for expectant mothers to share with their older children as they prepare for a new sibling.

There are other books out there that will answer more advanced questions in a more graphic way. This book is not going to answer everything, but it is the perfect book to use for beginning the journey of educating your children about reproduction, and it is written in such a way that parents can easily discuss their own beliefs with their children.

Fun, factual and reverent... what more could a mommy want?
This book is a fun, low-key, high-quality way to introduce kids to the miracles of development and birth. Mine (6 and 7) were less interested in the pictures of actual babies as they were in those of the developing fetuses, and their long looks over each page allowed plenty of time for my narration -- about how much each of them was wanted, about how amazing it is that a real baby can be so tiny, and so on.

My daughter seemed a little uncomfortable with one of the pictures, which depicts a woman "giving birth" -- you do see the side of her hip exposed, in a fairly realistic position, but there's not much more skin visible here than you might see on a beach. I think overall, the pluses here -- especially allowing kids to see the developing fetus as an actual baby -- outweigh any possible drawbacks (the very slight nudity).

As "facts of life" books go, this one is full of fascinating facts, doesn't dodge any tricky issues, and can help instill a much-needed sense of reverence around the whole process.

NOTE: There is nothing in this book about how babies get made in the first place. If that's what you're looking for -- and in my case, it was, in part -- you will need other books to cover THAT information.

My kids kept saying "WOW"!
This book focuses mainly on fetal development and childbirth. My 5 year old daughter, who always wants to hear stories about her birth, loved it and kept saying "Wow!" and "Awesome" througout the book. It had beautiful pictures and lots of factual information. It was great!

Relax and have fun with the tough questions!
I first bought this book when I was pregnant for my second child. My daughter was about three at the time and I wanted to make sure she had an understanding of the "miracle of childbirth". This book took away the pressure! Great photographs and a clear and factual explanation of how babies are conceived and develop. I loaned this book out to one of my friends and unfortuantley never got it back. My daughter is now 9 and will still mention how she loved that book and wishes she had it back! This is a must for anyone with a new baby on the way or to handle that tough question of, "Where do babies come from?"! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Berkeley Breathed ("Bloom County") continues his successful second lifeas a first-rate children's storyteller. In the spirit of A Wish for Wings That Work andRed Ranger Came Calling,Edwurd Fudwupper Fibbed Big celebrates Breathed's ample cartooning skillwhile incorporating a more weighty, atmospheric style to tell a simple storythat makes intelligent use of both. Energetic, silly, "Bloom County"-esquecaricatures provide contrast to some truly impressive set pieces, fat with colorand playfully composed. And that's just the illustrations.

Edwurd's hilarious story is told by his overlooked little sister Fannie: "From along line of liars, there's none higher upper... / Than my fibbing big brother,/ The Edward Fudwupper." This accomplished yarn-spinner just can't seem to stophimself, "like the time he fibbed big / And told Ben and Dinky / That I had beenborne by / A poodle named Stinky." But after an accident in the den with Mom'sporcelain pig, Edwurd goes too far and implicates a couple of "passionateporkers" from Pluto. Soon the military arrives in full force, "with planes andwith tanks and with loud whirligigs!" (Not to mention a very serious-lookinghelicopter with a banner encouraging the frightened populace below to "STAYCALM.") But this proves to be the least of Edwurd's worries, and in the end it'sup to brave Fannie to save the day with a fib of her very own. (Ages 4 to 8)--Paul Hughes ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Fibbin' Fudwuppers Batman!
Fannie Fudwupper's big brother is no ordinary big brother. Some little boys are good at baseball or basketball, but Edwurd's talent lies in his ability to craft the most outrageously creative fibs ever. One day he goes too far. He tells a fib so fantastic, so far-fetched, that it sends everyone--including the dog catcher, the air force, and even those two galaxies down--into a panic. Has the damage been done? Will Edwurd face certain punishment? Read the book, and find out. I did, and found a new favorite kids book! The wonderful illustrations and text come together to make a laugh-out-loud story for kids and adults. And parents will love the message--honesty IS the best policy.

Funny and beautiful
As a fan of Breathed's "Bloom County", I felt the urge to buy this book for my four years old daughter. She, her sister, her mother and her father love it.

The story is narrated by a frustrated girl who receives no attention from her brother "Edwurd", the biggest liar alive. One day, one of his lies goes too far, bringing even an upset creature from "just two galaxies down".

The illustrations are gorgeous, with the usual funny style of Breathed, in which characthers look as stretched by superior forces.

Regarding a complaint from another reviewer, here is the discussed dedication: "The author wishes to thank President Bill Clinton, without whose daily inspiration this particular story just plain wouldn't have come to mind".

That's it. I will not call it a "political statement", but just plain humor.

Highly recommended.

Best Book
This book is such a pleasure to read! The illustrations are fabulous, and the story flows so well... not that we have to read it any more because we all have it memorized! We purchase this book for all new moms and dads, and for many birthdays, too. In a world of children's books where well-written and beautifully illustrated often do not seem to intersect, this book is a gem. Enjoy it!

Love It
I ,unlike most of these reviewers, was not a fan of the cartoonist, infact, had never heard of him! I ordered this book with my 6 year old son in mind , and he absolutely loves this book! So much so, that I have also ordered "Goodnight Opus" and "The Last Basselope". I love the illustrations and so does my son. This is a fantastic boys book, if I could give it 6 stars I would, because my son loves it so much!My son took it to school and the principal has ordered it for the school library! I recommend it for children aged 5-8, maybe a little older, and of course their parents will also love it!THIS BOOK IS A CLASSIC!!!!!

My KIDS and I love it.
This is a once a week reader with a great message and excellent pictures. I have 3 boys and this is a book they all enjoy, and I enjoy reading to them again, and again, and again... ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Alligator Baby
I really liked this book, because it was funny. Kristen's parents kept bringing home animal babies from the zoo instead of a people baby. Kristen saved the day because she went to the zoo and got the right baby from the gorilla's cage. But it was funny at the end when all the mommy animals break into the house to get their babies back

Wonderful book when you're bringing home another baby.
We got this book as a shower gift when our son was born. We read this over and over to his older sister. I can't imagine a better, more entertaining book for a 3 year old who is welcoming home a new sibling.

A favourite
This is one of our favourite books. A humorous look at a new addition to the family. This was the perfect story for our two children when #3 child arrived, the humour takes away some of the stress and expectation for young children when a new baby is joining the family. Also a great gift.

Very Good
My son loves all the Robert Munsch books. He knows exactly what makes kids laugh and this book is an excellent example of this.

School Kids love Aligator Baby!
This is my fifth year with the elementary school, yet it is my first year in the library. The first book that I read to the children was 'Aligator Baby'. I believe what the children love the most about this book is that there is never a dull moment! All the children participate in what is going to happen next, and they enjoy finishing the sentences. This tells me that the children are focused, and they want me to read it over and over! It is fun to act out the parts as I read to the classes. (1st grade to 3rd grade.) I really do need more books like this one for the chidren. One of the specials that I have with the children is that each child can share a "favorite page" from a book they borrowed. The students always have something good to say about 'Aligatory Baby'. Thanks ... Read more

Book Description

A small girl runs away from her domineering older sister, only to discover how much she is needed and loved. ‘A heartwarming picture book for small girls.’ —BL.

Children's Books of the Year 1966 (CSA) ... Read more

Reviews (8)

THE BEST BOOK EVER!
My mother read this book to me many, many times in preparation for my little sister's birth. I still think of it every time my sister (now 25 years old) gets on my nerves. It really taught me that, even though she could be annoying, that we both truly loved each other and could depend on each other no matter what...If you have a daughter and are expecting another one soon, you have to get this book!

a story for all sisters
I remember checking this book out of the library when I was 6, and thinking that this story must have been written for me and my little sister. We even looked like the girls in the book! I rediscovered this book recently, and found that the story rings true with me today, just as much as it did in 1977. I think anyone who has a sister could relate to this beautiful story.

Feed the literary impulse
This is perhaps one of the greatest picture books ever written, and is much, much more than a tool for assuaging sibling rivalry in two girl families. With a perfect ear for read-aloud prose, and a finely balanced sense of the perspective of a child, Zolotow invites the youngest listeners to savor the pleasures of literature.

We are introduced to big sister at the outset, who always takes care of little sister. But the heart of the story lies in little sister's small act of rebellion on a day when she grows tired of big sister always telling her what to do. Although the story is nominally about a little sister learning from her older sister such that "the two of them can take care of each other", it is the heart of the story that moves this tale out of the usual wretched and formulaic child's self-help lesson and into the realm of true literature. For not only does little sister run away from big sister, but when big sister comes calling for her in the meadow, little sister doesn't respond at all. Not only that, but we get a full two pages of little sister's quiet, existential reflections on the nature of being alone and in pondering what she has just done. This is the true heart of the story. How can a reader/listener not respond to the willfulness of little sister's unkindness, and yet fully understand the joys of being alone and feeling the grass under your knees while bumblebees buzz overhead? It is in identifying with these conflicting and ambiguous feelings that the young reader feels, perhaps for the first time, a frisson of bittersweet pleasure that will hook them on the joys of reading good books for life.

Of course little sister finally relents after she sees big sister break down and cry, but thankfully Zolotow doesn't give an adult resolution to the story. The answer to big sister's reproach, "Why did you run away?" is immaterial, and lemonade is the order of the day.

Precious and Timeless
I own a hardcover edition of this book that was given to me over 30 years ago and inscribed on the inside by my kindergarten teacher. At the time, I was struggling with the little sister blues. Today, I read the very same book to my son's kindergarten class, and watched sixteen angelic faces react with a mixture of empathy, sorrow, and finally relief to the heartwarming story. The ensuing discussion was all about how they each love their siblings. I went online to see if I could get one of these for the class, since I won't part with my own. A great tale to tell as the kids go home for holidays and vacation!

Brings Back Memories
About 25 years ago, this was a book that my mother would read to my older sister and me who are a year apart in age. I can remember being reduced to tears at the mere thought of being separated from my big sister. Now, my big sister has three daughters of her own, and I am on a quest to pass along this book which meant so much in the eyes of a little sister so many years ago. This is truly a timeless book for sisters! ... Read more

Book Description

In this poignant and heartfelt book, a young boy anticipates the arrival of hisnew baby sister. She is coming from China to be adopted into his American family.The storydescribes, month by month, the boy’s participation in the long adoption process. Finally thewaiting for May is over—she meets her new family, and it is the boy who makes her smile. Thechild narrator’s point of view distinguishes this book from others on this topic and makes itimmediate and accessible. Beautifully rendered, sensitive paintings augment the text. ... Read more

Book Description

Zak thinks his sister Wheezie's room is a mess, so he decides to clean it for her. But when he throws away all of her things, poor Zak soon learns that one dragon's trash is another dragon's treasure!
... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Good Book About Respect
I like the story about how Emmie and Zak learn to respect their sibling's stuff even if it looks like junk to them. The story was just a bit long, and the girls preferred the video, but it was still a very good story. In the true form of the awesome Dragon Tales stories, everyone works together to help find a solution to the problem. I love these books, and I am glad that I bought them!

garbage story
OK, dealing with garbage is real life, but do we have to read our children stories about digging through a dump? My daughter loves Zak and Wheezie, but I think the story could have been much more fun. I wish they had used another episode to base this book on. The message about recycling is good, though. If you missed this episode, I just wanted to explain that this book is not just about cleaning up the child's room, it includes the whole process of garbage from house to dump to recycling. Informative, yes, but fun, well, I don't think so.

Zak and Wheezie are great!
My three year old, being an avid Dragon Tales fan, loves this book. Not only does it please her for its connection to her favorite television show, it pleases me because she learns about compassion and how different people can have different feelings about the same things. I highly reccomend this book. ... Read more

Book Description

When suburban Claudia Kincaid decides to run away, she knows she doesn't just want to run from somewhere, she wants to run to somewhere -- to a place that is comfortable, beautiful, and, preferably, elegant. She chooses the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Knowing that her younger brother Jamie has money and thus can help her with a serious cash-flow problem, she invites him along.

Once settled into the museum, Claudia and Jamie find themselves caught up in the mystery of an angel statue that the museum purchased at auction for a bargain price of $225. The statue is possibly an early work of the Renaissance master, Michelangelo, and therefore worth millions. Is it? Or isn't it? Claudia is determined to find out. Her quest leads her to Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, the remarkable old woman who sold the statue, and to some equally remarkable discoveries about herself. ... Read more

Reviews (223)

An educational yet exciting book for readers of all ages.
Claudia and Jaime are two very intelligent characters that enlighten the reader as to the workings of a child's mind. Claudia, as the main character, always thinks of interesting ways for her and Jaime to live inside the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It is a fantasy of everyone to be locked in a museum or store after all of the other people are gone. This book is a way for the reader to experience that feeling without the fear of being arrested! I believe that anyone who reads this story will become inspired by the Kincaids and find themselves wanting to learn more. The children have so much fun without hurting others or making fun of others as happens in some children's novels. Claudia is a definite role model for young girls and keeps the book interesting despite the academic undertones of Claudia and Jaime's reasons for visiting Mrs. Frankweiler. PARENTS-read this to your children to get them excited about reading.

This book is definately not 'mixed up'
I first heard about this book on a computer reading game, but I could only read bits and parts of it and when our computer crashed I completely forgot about it.
Then one day I was at the library and I saw this book for sale, but I wasn't sure if it was any good or not. I didn't want to waste my money, so I borrowed it instead. Now I wish I had bought it. This book is fantastic!

It's about a girl named Claudia who is fed up with her boring life, so she decided to run away with her bother Jamie to the Metropolitan Museum of Arts in New York City. There she falls in love with an angel statue that is rumored to have been made by Michelangelo, but no one knows for sure. Claudia takes it upon herself to find out who made it before she goes home. Her quest takes her to the home of the strange Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, where the statues true maker is revealed.

At first I had been hesitant to read this book because I thought it would have magic or some other stuff and nonsense in it, but I was pleasantly surprised. This story is about Claudia and Jamie's search for the statues maker, and it is also pretty realistic. It's interesting to see how they improvise to make life livable in the great Museum.

I think this book is tops, and it is definitely a must-read.

A timeless entertaining adventure
I read this book almost 30 years ago and loved it, I've bought copies for my friend's children and it's always a hit. Great book for kids who can identify with Claudia, who are intelligent, love art, feel a little misunderstood and crave adventure. Big kids like this book as well!

Simply Excellent
I first read this book in fifth grade. The entire Literature class was assigned to it, so we read it bit by bit during the day, and I couldn't stand waiting to know what would happen next. After three days of the teacher reading the book to us, I ran to the library and bought it for myself.

The characters and their adventures are simply delightful.

A wonderful treat for wild imaginations
Claudia feels underappreciated in her suburban household - a thing all children have most likely felt during at least one time or another. Here, Konigsburgs writes of these feelings with brutal honesty and frankness. Because Claudia is not an only child, it almost seems as if to her, and to readers, that there isn't enough love and attention to go around. Unjustly so, the poor girl frequently gets caught up in chore after chore while her siblings are off the hook.

So she will run away and teach them all a lesson in "Claudia appreciation." The Metropolitan Musuem of Art will become her grandiose and excitingly fantastic home away from home, so to speak. And younger brother Jamie will accompany her, mainly because he has saved every single penny since birth and will have money, just what Claudia needs. Yet to say she's using her younger bro merely for financial purposes would be unjust. I believe Claudia truly wants and needs the companionship.

The highlight of their one-week vacation is a mysterious and ethereal statue of an angel, titled as such. It is oh-so mysterious because everyone is unsure of the statue's creator. Some believe it to be the renown Michelangelo - but it has yet to be confirmed and 12 year-old Claudia is incessantly in awe of thee angel's beauty. She knows she cannot go home until she uncovers the secret of the statue and that will mean having to get in contact with a total stranger, Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, who is the statue's previous owner. And if she refuses to help Claudia solve the mystery on her mind, she and Jamie may never get home.

FROM THE MIXED-UP FILES OF MRS. BASIL E. FRANKWEILER, first published in 1967, has been capturing the attention of children everywhere. Konigsburg has skillfully woven a loveable masterpiece that seems magical, almost too wonderful to be realistic. Yet it is. Claudia feels what so many of society's children today feel. And like many children, she keeps her feelings to herself and deals with pent up frustrations the only way she knows how, hence her escape to The Metropolitan.

I first read this novel when I was 9. I found myself relating to feeling less love from seemingly uncaring parents, due to having a sister who had no responsibilities and extra TLC because of her young age. I found myself envious of Claudia's grand escape to the musuem and I contemplated a night away from home spent at The Philadelphia Musuem of Art. That, of course, never happened. In retrospect, I realize how wild of an imagination I had. My mind was constantly roaming. Children today are just as creative - or they can be - which is why they'll much enjoy this book. Despite now being seven years older, I still frequently pick it up off my bookshelf, worn and dog-eared, to read it again and again. ... Read more

Book Description

Carolyn's tips for survival:

Keep your hair too short for ribbons.
Get a great dog.
Avoid girls who wear Mary Janes.
Spy on the neighbors.
Play in the mud.

Carolyn likes to break the rules. To her great surprise, it turns out that's what being a girl is all about.

Reviews (18)

Girls, Girls, Girls
This book, How I Survived Being a Girl by wendelin Van Draanen shows girls about tomboys and extremely "prissy" girls. (If you like to read about tomboys, every girl's day-to-day life, sibling rivalry, and troublesome activitites then you should read this book because you would love it. In this book there are 19 chapters, all with creative titles. This book tells about carolyn an 11 year old girl, who is a tomboy. Her family and her neighbors understand and accept her tomboy-ish life. On a scale from 1 to 5, 5 being the best; it deserves a 5 because of its unstoppable humor. I am a tomboy type girl. Read it yourself and judge it. "You can't tell a book by its cover."

My favorite book of all time!
I loved this book since I was in the fourth grade (I was 10 at that time) and picked it up and got it for Literature Circles. The thing I like about it is that Carolyn, the main character, is a tomboy and by being it written in first person, you can see what it's like being in her shoes. It's the kind of book any 12-year-old girl can relate to; and make you not feel alone, and it's great for any 8-12 year old girl to read who's curious and confused about the world around her.

STORYLINE:

This book is about a preteen-aged girl named Carolyn, who wishes she was a boy. I guess you could say she's a tomboy because she has 2 brothers: Allen and Jack, she's surrounded by mostly boys, keeps her hair short, hates dresses, and dresses in boy's clothes every chance she gets. She loves to spy, ditch her brothers and hang out with neighborhood friends, such as Charlie, her best guy friend. She goes on fun adventures like digging underground holes, biking with her brothers, and climbing on neighbors' roof and through rocks down and shining a flashlight down their roof. All Carolyn wants is more friends, a dog, and to get away from all her brothers. When fall comes, she has to go to school, and gets in a lot of trouble, because she calls her teacher names like 'Dragon Lady.' She hates this girly-girl named Helen Lison, who always wears Mary Janes and dresses. But then, when Carolyn is really feeling down, her mother becomes pregnant with a new kid. Carolyn then gets her hopes up and wishes that it is going to be a girl. It comes out to a stunning ending: she cries when she find out it's a girl, she gets tamed a bit and stops wishing she were a boy.

MAIN CHARACTERS:
Carolyn's family is made up of Carolyn (of course), her brothers Jack and Allen, and her Mom and Dad, and a dog that they get towards of the Middle of the book, whom they name Kocory. At the End of the book, her mother has a baby, who they all named Nancy.

Her friends are: Charlie + Will, her next-door neighbors, and her brothers,
Jack and Allen.

WHERE IT TAKES PLACE (AND TIME): A little more than half of this book takes place in the Summer, but some of it takes place in the Fall too, because that's when Carolyn goes back to school.

To make this book more helpful, there should be a little map drawn inside to show the neighborhood, which can be found behind the contents (in my book; if you bought the version first published in 1997).

Well, that was a review on my favorite book! I hope you thought it was helpful. So, would you please click 'yes' or 'no'? :)

Great
This was a very good book. She is just like me but has way more fun.
Wedelin Van Draanen should make another book about carolyn.
and like call it "being a girl isnt so bad" or "i thought beign a girl wanst so bad until now"

Carolyn herself is smart and fairly likable,
Being a girl is no fun. Girls have to wear dresses to school and can't do entertaining things, like have their own paper route. Being a girl means you're not supposed to climb on the roof, or dig foxholes in the yard, or spy on the neighbors. And you're definitely not supposed to like your new baby sister, or have a crush on a friend who's normally nothing more than a stickball buddy.

Right?

Twelve-year-old Carolyn has never thought of herself as a girl. She prefers to keep her hair short and wants nothing to do with dresses, ruffles, or anything that remotely could be considered "girly." But when her baby sister Nancy is born, Carolyn's thoughts toward girls begin to change as she sees that she's not alone in her family anymore.

Lots of gross descriptions and hilarious adventures keep this book moving, though in the end Carolyn disappointingly fails to balance her tomboy nature with the "girly" feelings she experiences. Furthermore, the lack of a timeline is a source of confusion. Though the reader never knows for certain the year in which the book takes place, it seems as if many of Carolyn's anecdotes, such as having to wear dresses to school that aren't mentioned as part of a uniform or not being able to run her own paper route, are problems not usually faced by girls today.

Carolyn herself is smart and fairly likable, but not as inspiring as van Draanen's other major girl hero, Sammy Keyes.

--- Reviewed by Carlie Kraft Webber

How I survived being a girl
Do you hate being picked on by an older borther or sister? Well, in my non-fiction narrative, Carolyn hated it. Carolyn is a teen who lives in a small neighborhood, she spends her day spying on other peopple. She spent her day spying on other people, because she is not a girly-girl. In fact, she is quite adventurous and very curious. When her mother is having a baby, she cuts back on the spying, and more on the thought of her new sibling.

This book was quite a page-turner, because it was detailed on every subject from spying, to her new sibling, and mostly her life. I would recommend it to pre-teen and older girls/women. For pre-teens, it would suit their life better. For older women, it would reflect back to how they might have been in their younger years. It is easy to connect to the character, if you are not such a girly-gril. I enjoyed this style of writing, because it was easy to read and wasn't confusing. You can see it in you mind while reading.
EX. We went around the pool over to where Freeko was. Well, it's not a pool like you're used to thinking of. It's got water in it, but you wouldn't want to swim in it unless you were a snake or a frog or something that liked slime.
The end of each chapter kept you reading, you wanted to know what happened to Carolyn. You would ask if she got in trouble or not.
EX. ....And I just stared at my pillowcase until I did what any sensible girl would do.
CRY. ... Read more

Book Description

There's a new baby coming, and it's waiting in a very special place--Mommy's tummy house! There the baby grows and kicks, and Mommy eats all kinds of things to feed it. It's fun to wonder about the baby, talk to it on the "tummy telephone," and make sure Mommy gets enough rest. Meanwhile Mommy's house gets bigger every day! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Bought this book for my 3yo daughter
who is expecting a new sibling. Although not her favourite baby book, she does seem to enjoy the rhymes and beautiful bright pictures in this one. My husband found the line about the door to the tummy house being 'rather tight' somewhat amusing as well! ... Read more

Book Description

Everybody loves Max and Ruby-and what toddler could resist these adorable shaped board books? Cut in the shape of Rosemary Wells's beloved bunny siblings and filled with simple text and colorful illustrations on every page, these two books are guaranteed to delight the very youngest Max and Ruby fans, who can now follow the bunnies' adventures on daily television. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Another Rosemary Wells Winner!
"Another Rosemary Wells Winner!"
Rosemary Wells has written another winner with Ruby's Tea for Two. The story follows her usual pattern: older sister Ruby tries to dictate how an activity should take place, in this case a tea party. Best friend Louise (who owns the tea set) is invited. Little brother Max is not. "One chocolate and one strawberry, please," Ruby orders newly appointed waiter Max. As usual, one-track mind Max is determined to get his way. The devious expression in Max's eyes is reason enough to get this latest addition to this lively series. The Max and Ruby books are such a hit in our house that my 3.5-year-old daughter renamed her younger sister "Max"- and she answers to it! While we saw this particular story first on TV's Nick Jr., both my girls request the book version over and over. I also recommend the recently released Max Drives Away. ... Read more

Download Description

Newborn babies sleep all the time. They can't talk or play, but babies grow fast, and soon big brother or sister can teach the baby how to play. Having a new baby in the house can be stressful for big brother or big sister. Our New Baby explains questions siblings have surrounding the arrival of a new baby in the family. This book teaches older siblings what to expect, and assures them that babies grow up and can be fun. Wendy Cheyette Lewison is the author of several children's books, including The Rooster Who Lost His Crow, I Wear my Tutu Everywhere, and I am a Flower Girl. Nancy Sheehan is a photographer and illustrator for children's books. She illustrated Little Ballerinas and Little Skaters. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Good sibling book
Great pictures and simple discussions about the new baby including: the baby in mommy's tummy, how I can help, when I feel left out, and how much fun baby can be. ... Read more

Book Description

Max's big sister, Ruby, tries to teach Max to say CUP, EGG, and APPLE, but his new word is DELICIOUS!Rosemary Wells's original four Max books, brought out in 1979, were the first high-quality board books published. Combined with the second four, published in 1985, total sales are over one million! And Mrs. Wells's followers are legion. Now she has completely reillustrated her eight delightful Max board books in her exciting and vibrant full-color style. The highly imaginative stories, loved by millions of young children, are even funnier with the new artwork. These are perfect first books, especially with the increased focus on the importance of reading to babies and toddlers, a cause that Mrs. Wells has been wholeheartedly promoting for several years with her The Most Important 20 Minutes of Your Day reading initiative. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Definitive Max
Ruby and Max's interactions are so simply stated, yet so representative of sibling and even parent/child relationships. Rosemary Wells makes me react (in this case, laugh) along with my child as we read about Ruby and Max's conversations and adventures. I consider that a sign of a good children's book....a truly shared experience.

In this particular book, the readers get a great perspective on Max, whose usual, simple verbalizations are evident (his one and only word is BANG!) but also made evident are the wheels that are constantly turning in his brain, when he, without prompt, comes out with "Delicious!" after biting into an apple. A good reminder that even our littlest ones are watching and learning even before they are talking.

Another short, simple, sweet Max and Ruby book to share with your child.

Cute story, but taxing text.
Let me introduce Max, and his older sister Ruby if you are not already familiar with these endearing little bunnies. Max is generally the mischievous one, while big sister Ruby is helpful, but often bossy. In this short story Ruby attempts to teach Max some new words as his first, and only word is BANG. She starts with CUP, then try's POT, BROOM, FISH, EGG, CHAIR and finally APPLE. In the end, Max takes a big bite out of the apple and triumphantly declares it DELICIOUS! "MAX's First Word," is a charming account of brotherly and sisterly love, and teaches a few words too. I love that Max's first word is BANG, kid's love hearing, BANG, BANG, BANG.

The text is very short; only ten pages long, and incorporates humor, which is always desirable. This little board book measures 7" x 7" x ¼", and is simply illustrated, yet the images are colorful and expressive for easy comprehension. I found "MAX's First Word," difficult to read aloud. There are TOO many "he said/ she said's" in this story, as in many of Ms. Wells books. For instance, the story begins, "Max's one word was BANG! No, Max, said sister, Ruby. Say CUP. BANG, said Max." The wording is awkward to read out loud, and does not flow. Cute story, yet taxing text. Birth and up.

Everybody's favorite book
This is absolutely my son's favorite book, and has been since he was about 11 months old. He will sort through all of his books, pick this one, and come toddling over to me-grinning from ear to ear-and sit down in my lap to have it read to him. The fun of it is, its particular brand of humor has not gotten old for me, either.

We have introduced the book to several friends and their children. The adults have all become Rosemary Wells addicts (like us) and the children always drag it out to hear it, asking "Bang? Bang?" I respect Wells' books because she is able to write stories simple enough for infants and toddlers to enjoy, full of clear pictures, that can still make parents laugh every time, too.

VERY DIFFICULT TO READ
Our 14 month daughter loves this book but we hate it. The story is cute and she loves the pictures but it is very difficult to read. The words do not flow and I found myself having to read it slowly because what I was reading did not sound right. The sentence POT,Max,said Ruby. BANG,said Max is harder to read out loud than you think. Your child will probably love it , you probably won`t.

Just like some siblings I know
There isn't a Max book for every occasion, and I hope there never will be. Max and his older sister Ruby are too much like real siblings to ever get stuck in the formulaic series rut. In fact, Ruby and Max are so much like my two oldest kids that I use the Max books to help my son deal with the frustrations of being the "little brother."

In one of the first books, Ruby is trying to expand toddler Max's vocabulary. He knows one word -- BANG -- and uses it often, with accompanying gestures. Ruby shows Max a cup. "Say CUP," she commands. "Bang," he replies. She shows him a pot, a broom, and egg, naming each item. Bang. Bang. Bang. Bang. He's still not catching on and now there's raw egg all over the floor.

Exasperated, Ruby helps Max into his high chair and shows him an apple, "Say APPLE, Max. YUM YUM, Max. Say YUM YUM."

Max takes a bite of the apple, then holds it aloft and repeats the new word he's learned. "DELICIOUS!"

The Max board books are great for babies and toddlers. If your kids are older, check out the picture books, which are even better than the board books. ... Read more

Book Description

Illus. in full color. Two bears discover that people can have a variety of skills, whether they are He or She. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Outdated view of women's rights for kids today
Depending on the society you live in, the "she can do anything he can" view seemed outdated to me. By saying that "she" can do the obvious, it implies that there is a reason to have to say it. By saying isn't it wonderfull that "she" can do these too, it implies that "normally" maybe she shouldn't be able to, or why make a big deal about it. I think children should learn about "shes" having to make a big deal about it, but I don't want to make a big deal about my "she" children doing "certain" things or my "he" children doing "certain" things. I want them to grow up not thinking it's worth making a big deal about whether a "she" does construction work, or a "he" sews. This potentially could cast doubts in the minds of "nontraditional" "hes" and "shes". Frankly, my kids were quite confused by this emphasis on "he" and "she", instead of just "people do these things".

He Bear She Bear Review
This story is based on a family that enjoys adventure around town. The main characters of the book are two baby bears, a "He Bear" and a "She Bear."

The message in this story for children and adults is that just because you're a male or a female doesn't mean you can't do anything you want to do if you put your mind to it.

This book is very good for kids because it is funny and it shows responsibility.

Positive message and entertaining for little kids
This book provided a good starting point for my 2-year old about a number of things - differentiating between male and female, various kinds of jobs people can have, how rhyming works. It's politically correct without being preachy - and she likes it! ... Read more

Book Description

Gossie wears red boots, Gertie wears blue boots, but Ollie has no boots. Stomping bootless after Gossie and Gertie as they tromp in the straw, romp in the rain, and jump over puddles in their colorful boots leaves Ollie frustrated. Little Ollie decides he really wants his own pair of boots. . . but what will he do if he gets them? Any toddler who has had to keep up with an older brother or sister will relate to Ollie as he finds his own way in the barnyard. ... Read more

Reviews (1)