Reviews (3)

A little book full of love
With sweet, simple illustrations and few words, Jan Ormerod paints a beautiful portrait of a loving family. Big sister learns to help, share, and enjoy her new brother. The illustrations show an affectionate family in realistic, every-day situations; washing up, nap time, jogging with Mother, a visit from Grandma, a Saturday picknick, and more. I bought this book for myself before I had children because I thought it was so sweet. It is now a favorite of both my little ones.

Good to teach bro/sis/family how to include baby in the day
The book incorporates many positive examples of how a family can integrate and include a new baby into its routine (i.e., the baby does not have toput a damper on the family time, as too many people think).Lots of imagesof big sister playing with the baby, and a variety of activities.My onlynegative impressions were the baby sleeping in a crib alone, and some ofthe pictures seem outdated (the baby & toddler strapped into the carvia some harness contraption).But it does include babywearing, manyfather-child images, nursing, and an overall positive relationship witheach member of the family.This would be a good book to read to thesoon-to-be big brother or sister to help him/her adjust to the new arrival.

Intimate portraits of magical, messy life with baby
Jan Ormerod renders more than 101 snapshots of life with a small baby in his (her?) charming book, ``101 Things to Do with a Baby." The simple line drawings capture the intimacy of family life, the hundreds of small moments--from splashy baths and windy walks to flower-picking and laundry-sorting, that comprise family life. The tone of the pictures and text is endearing without being sentimental, and the characters--the big sister in particular--are treated with affection and humor. Both my baby and my "big girl" love this book, and have made it a favorite bed-time choice ... Read more

Book Description

My trip, by me, Miss Mouse

Hi! I'm going on an airplane trip with my best friend. It's so exciting! First we go to the airport, and I get to ride through the X-ray machine. Whee! Then the plane takes off and we go tip and up and tip above the clouds. You'd be surprised at all the things there are to do on an airplane!

Miss Mouse, the mischievous rag doll introduced in Miss Mouse's Day, is back in a high-flying adventure bursting with the warmth, humor, and bright illustrations that are Jan Ormerod's signature.

Reviews (1)

A great book for on-the-go miss mouse fans!
If your child loved Miss Mouse's Day, they will love this one as well. I purchased this for my daughter before her first plane trip and she loved it. The pictures are cute and the book is short and sweet. There is a bit of hide and seek as you search for Miss Mouse in the overhead bin, bathroom, baggage carousel, etc. There is no big message from this book, but it is cute and great for a kid on the go! ... Read more

Book Description

When I woke up this morning, I tickled Mousie's tummy. But Mousie didn't wake up.

When a child learns that his pet mouse has died, at first he can't believe it. "Mousie is NOT dead!" he insists. "He's just...very...very sleepy this morning."

But it takes time for the young narrator to understand that Mousie IS dead and he's not coming back. With the help of his family, the child finds out that it's perfectly okay to feel angry and sad when his pet mouse -- whom he loves -- dies. By voicing his feelings and asking questions, he finally begins to accept Mousie's death.

Beautifully told by award-winning author Robie H. Harris and gently illustrated by world-renowned artist Jan Ormerod, Goodbye Mousie is a perfect book with which to help children cope with loss. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A Marvelous Easy-to-Understand Book About Death
One morning, a young boy wakes up to find his beloved pet mouse, known as Mousie, asleep. No matter what the little boy does, Mousie just won't wake up. His Father informs him that young Mousie has died. The young boy doesn't want to believe his Father. After all, little Mousie was fine the day before, and he was a very happy mouse. The boy is soon overcome with anger that Mousie has left him without any warning, and feels very sad. But after talking about the good times he shared with Mousie, and creating a special box for Mousie's burial that is filled with all kinds of goodies for Mousie to enjoy once he gets to mouse-heaven, the boy begins to feel a lot better about the loss of his beloved Mousie.

Robie H. Harris has done a marvelous job in creating a book for young children, that will explain to them easily why their pet had to die. The prose is wonderful, and possesses an easy-to understand format, while each page is filled with gorgeous full-color illustrations by Jan Ormerod. GOODBYE MOUSIE is a spectacular book that should occupy a space on everyone's bookshelf. Especially for those who have young children, and own pets.

Erika Sorocco
Book Review Columnist for The Community Bugle Newspaper

realistically written and beautifully illustrated
I checked this book out at the library not knowing the subject. The cover shows a small boy playing with his mouse, but the first page starts out with the boy waking up to find his mouse "asleep". Written in the first person (of the boy), this book is sensitive and realistic in how a parent might help a young child deal with the death of a pet. It relates the father's tenderness in talking with his son, who goes through the range of emotions, including denial, sadness and anger. The boy appears to be of the preschool age, and while he seems to understand the finality of death, he also wants his mousie friend to be warm, well fed, and entertained after they bury him. The words are comforting to read and the illustrations are simple and beautifully done.

My 3 yr old boys have not personally experienced the death of a pet, but they've asked to read it several times. Our next door neighbor's dog died this summer and relate the mouse and the dog. They are very aware of the fact that the mouse died and is gone to "mousie heaven" (their words, not the books). They ask questions and empathize with and comfort the boy. We personally have an older bunny and dog, so I will certainly have this book in mind when they pass on.

What a magnificent way to teach children about loss!
I work as a therapist, and I think this is a great book to help to "normalize" (as much as possible) the process of losing a pet.I think this book can also serve as a springboard for children and parents to talk openly about loss.Robie Harris' book is a hit!

A realistic story to help children cope with loss.
Today I read ten books for children on death and loss at my local book store.GOODBYE MOUSIE by Robie H. Harris was selected for its clear, realistic emotions experienced by a young boy when his pet dies. The book was purchased to place in an elementary school library in memory of a first grade teacher who unexpectedly passed away recently.

A realistic story to help children cope with loss.
Today I read ten books for children on death and loss at my local book store.GOODBYE MOUSIE by Robie H. Harris was selected for its clear, realistic emotions experienced by a young boy when his pet dies. The book was purchased to place in an elementary school library in memory of a first grade teacher who unexpectedly passed away recently. ... Read more

Book Description

"I closed my eyes and held on tight to Hank. That's when I decided that going to the very first day of school was NOT a good idea."

When a child gets ready for the first day of school, it feels very exciting. But doing something new for the first time can also feel somewhat scary.

With great affection and humor, Robie H. Harris and Jan Ormerod, creators of the award-winning picture book Goodbye Mousie, tell the captivating story of a child who decides that skipping the very first day of school is a very good idea.

But with help from his favorite stuffed animal, Hank, and his parents, he discovers that going to the very first day of school can be fun and exciting -- and once you have done something new, it's not quite so new and scary anymore. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Enjoyable support to ease starting school jitters
This sensitive portrayal of a child with the willies over starting school is an engaging story in itself and will also bolster the resolve of young ones approaching their own first days at preschool or kindergarten. The little boy in this expressively illustrated book seems not to have had the opportunity to visit his classroom in advance, or meet his teacher, but evidently is already familiar with preschool routines.

The night before school starts, he decides definitely NOT to go for his first day. As he explains to his tenderly respectful parents the morning of the big day, he won't know anything on the first day, ". . . all the kids' names, or which cubby is your cubby, or where the crayons are, or what kind of juice they have, or if they have crackers -at all!" Not knowing any of the songs, 'or when it's story time, or where the toilet is, or if you can play in the rain. " are troubling too, and besides, how will his stuffed monkey manage without him?

After dad's good blueberry pancakes, and her son's temporary retreat under the kitchen table, mom sensibly suggests, as departure time presses, that Hank the stuffed monkey go along, and so he does. Hank is introduced to the teacher and, through the course of an appealing, active day, all the essential information is imparted. The pictures carry most of the rest of the story, showing children comfortably enjoying themselves at school. Nervousness overcome, our bright, endearing little hero (and Hank) plan to return the next day.

The publisher gauges this book appropriate for 4-8 year olds, but it will be appreciated by three year olds too, for years to come. ... Read more

Book Description

It's morning, and the first rays of sunlight shine into a little girl's bedroom, waking her up. She gets out of bed and matter-of-factly starts her day. This award-winning wordless picture book follows the girl as she goes about her morning routine and watches as her parents do the same. She eats cereal, climbs in bed with her parents who read the paper and drink coffee, brushes her teeth, gets dressed, and goes out the door ready for school. Preschool-age children will enjoy providing their own commentary and comparing their personal routine to hers. ... Read more

Book Description

It's nighttime, and the little girl from the companion book Sunshine is now winding down her day: she eats her dinner, takes a bath, and says good-night to her dolls. Her dad reads her a bedtime story, but she's not quite ready to go to sleep - she gets up for a glass of water, a hug, a reading session with her mom, and then, when both of her parents fall asleep, she's ready for bed again. Kids love routines and will be able to see themselves in this simple, wordless illustrated story. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Jan is an angel. When will she stop by for tea?
Jan is an angel. If her personal life contains even 1/10th of the positivity that permeates her books for children, you would wish her to babysit your dearest, most protected children. Nice alter-egos of Jan's books are attractive to adults, including an amazing illustrative storytelling skil and, perhaps, easy status as conversation pieces for their lack of words.

My daughter loves these books. I love reading them to her. Every day, I wonder why great authors like Jan aren't in print for easy access by today's children.

Enchanting sequel
What a shame this delightful book is out of print - do try to get a copy if you can!

This is a sequel to 'Sunshine' by the same author. It is a picture book without any words, so the story can change slightly, be built with the words of your child and yourself. The small girl lives with her parents, has dinner, "helps" with the washing up, has a bath and gets ready for bed. Dad tucks her in and reads a book, then goes into the living room with Mum. The little girl, however, cannot settle to sleep, and there are a few things going "bump" in the night, and a need for a last minute glass of water!

The illustrations in this book are PERFECT. The expressions and physical attitudes, as well as the events are easily recognised by anyone with kids.

At time the sequences are like a comic strip - conveying small shifts in the narrative. This illustrator has observed young children I am sure....

This book was for a very long time a bedtime favourite with my son, from about age 2 on. ... Read more

Book Description

Here's a new take on the popular song known to every child. In this version, a collection of animals put their own twist on the words. A new version that stresses individuality and won't fail to amuse every child. This book was chosen for the 2004 edition of The Best Children's Books of the Year, Bank Street College of Education. It was also selected for the Children's Book of the Month Club. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Wow! What fun!
This book is the most fun I've had with my kids in a while. It's a great story to get everybody together and upbeat, one the kids can even "play" in the car together. Be careful though, not a bedtime story! ... Read more

Book Description

Emily is an ostrich with attitude, and Albert is an unflappable elephant. Whether Emily is curing a cold Albert didn't know he had, teaching him to dance correctly (ballet, of course) or explaining to him how to read the right way (the way that includes her), Albert is always happy to oblige. In five funny, warm and wonderful stories, this irresistible duo will delight readers of all ages. ... Read more

Book Description

Grandmother and I are sitting on the big chair, rocking. We rock back and forth, and back and forth.

Other people have laps for sitting on and backs for riding on. But when you have a cold or lighting is coming, nothing feels quite as right as rocking on Grandmother's lap, listening to the little tunes that she hums. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

great grandparents book
I bought this book for my 5 year old daughter who lives a considerable distance from both grandmothers. This book helped her recall the special feelings of closeness she has with each. She is now 7 and still loves me to read it to her (even though she can read it herself)! The rhythmic lines repeated, "rocks back and forth, back and forth" describing the grandmother's rocking chair motions with her granddaugher in her lap, make it appropriate for kids under 5. And the message conveys wonderfully the special comforting and loving embrace that are a grandmother's speciality. I would highly recommend it. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Delicious, Delightful & Darned Good
This is a wonderful book for children of all ages. My daughter adores the colorful pages. This is the book she must hear every night at bedtime. Often, one reading will not do. I recommend it to parents who are tired of the blah books normally written for children. This is a stunner. ... Read more

Book Description

Read me just one more!" are the words certain to be heard each night as children pore over this collection of favorite animal tales from around the world. Each story is complete in just a few pages, making the collection an ideal choice for bedtime reading.

Animal tales, always beloved by young children, can be found in most cultures. Best-selling author Mary Hoffman presents ten vibrant fables that capture the humor, wisdom, and richness of the culture from which they spring, and Jan Ormerod's sun-splashed illustrations provide a perfect complement. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Girl and Her Kitten
This simply-written children's book chronicles tbe first day that a little girl spends with her new kitten. The girl thinks about all the wonderful things her kitten will become as she watches him play and eat.

A good book for a young child who is about to get a new kitten. ... Read more

Book Description

Is she hiding in this room?

In the cupboard with the broom?

Is she underneath the stairs?

Under the tables? Under the chairs?

Told in rollicking rhyme, this classic game of hide-and-seek is accompanied by joyful illustrations that encourage young children to play along by finding Josie themselves. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Reviewer from Rochester, NY
I, too, have a daughter named Josie and was given this book by my sister.The story was right up my 4 y/o's alley.The alliteration was also terrific.Also loved the illustrations.Would recommend even for kids who are NOT named Josie!!!

Wonderful!
My little Josie loves this book! The story is a cheerful rhyme and it has beautiful illustrations.In the book, young Josie is hiding and her family searches the house and yard for her.She is hidden in all the pictures (under the bed, behind the fish tank).We have had this book for over a year and it continues to be one of her favorites.Now that she is almost two she can find Josie hiding in the pictures and screams with excitement!

A great book if your daughter/niece is named Josie!
This cute little book is filled with pleasant rhymes and alliteration that my 3-year old daughter enjoyed.The pictures were fun and familiar.I purchased the book for my niece named Josie! ... Read more

Book Description

The classic tale of the Princess and the Frog, cleverly re–imagined by Kate Greenaway award–winner Jan Ormerod. ... Read more

Book Description

Everybody is in such a hurry these days--mothers and fathers and sisters and brothers. About the only people who aren't in a hurry are grandfathers. With them there is always time to stop...and look...just as long as you like.

This gentle story about the warm, happy relationship between the oldest and youngest ones in the family was originally published in 1959 with illustrations by Paul Galdone. Now freshly reillustrated by the internationally acclaimed Jan Ormerod, it is sure to find its way into the hearts of a brand-new generation of readers. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Excellent book for children!
I grew up reading this book to my grandfather and it is an easy book for children to read. It gives a wonderful depiction of the special relationship grandfathers have with their grandchildren. Even though I am grown up now, I still read this book to my grandfather when I visit him. I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did. ... Read more

Book Description

An anthology of poems about universal childhood experiences by some of America's best-loved poets. "This anthology will delight young children and those who read to them." -- Booklist Horn Book Fanfare Selection ... Read more