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"The Owl and the Pussycat went to sea / In a beautiful pea-green boat. /They took some honey, and plenty of money, / Wrapped up in a five-pound note." The Owl and the Pussycat make quite a couple. On the decks of the pea-green S.S. Dorabella, the lovesick, bulgy-eyed Owl serenades his jowly feline sweetheart, inspiring her to grab him, dip him, and propose (demand?) marriage. They sail to an island, where they persuade the Piggywig to sell them the ring at the end of his nose to use as a wedding ring, are married by a turkey who lives on a hill, and then dance by the light of the moon. James Marshall--beloved creator of the unforgettable hippos George and Martha--graces Edward Lear's classic nonsense poem "The Owl and the Pussycat" with his winsome, goofy watercolor sketches in the final work before his death in 1992. As his dear friend Maurice Sendak writes in the afterword of this historic book, "There was never such an Owl and Pussycat, certainly not since Edward Lear, and for my money James surpasses Lear's original pictures in sheer giddy humor and heartfeltness." This is the kind of book that adults wish they had grown up with, and that children will remember their whole lives. (All ages) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (12)

the best
I have always loved this rhyme, and when I found a version illustrated by Jan Brett, I knew that for me this would be the definitive version. Jan Brett's illustrations bring the Caribbean Islands to life right in front of your eyes. The cat with her headscarf, the beautiful tropical fish in the borders, the lush vegetation, this is so richly illustrated that you can look at the pages over and over again. And if you tire of the Owl and the Pussycat, there's always the story told in the borders to provide a change.

Hand in hand, on the edge of the sand....
Spectacularly beautiful illustrations make this book a joy. The familiar poem has a gently rocking rhythm, and the pictures have a flow of their own. My 18-month-old daughter likes to find the flower, the yellow fish, the cat and the owl on each page. The quiet familiarity of the poem calms her down during the nighttime crazies (that spurt of energy toddlers get just before they collapse into a puddle). I recommend this book for a soothing, visually delightful experience.

Amazing Illustrations
My daughter loves this book and I don't mind reading it over and over again thanks to the beautiful illustrations. I always notice something new and wonderful and what a fantastic idea for a setting.

Beautiful But Ridiculous
As I'm sure you know, owls and cats don't make fast friends (something that makes the Hopperoo a lover of the owl). And that's what makes this book so ridiculous. Of course, it is a fairy tale and the illustrations are beautiful.

On the other hand, I once took my ailurophilic spouse Bessie on a camping trip to one of those cat-ridden ghost towns in New Mexico (Winston) and the interaction between owl and kitty cat was not quite as Lear describes in his charming book--imagine an entire evening interupted by the continual caterwauls of nature's inferior puddy tat. I only wish Bobo (her annoying tabby) had been along for the ride!!! Recommended, but not as enjoyable as the Winston Owlprey Symphony Orchestra.

Beautiful book with depth!
This is one of my favorite all-time books. I have always loved the story. My mother recited it so often that it was one of the first things I memorized. It's whimsical, sweet and has interesting characters and locations. When I found this edition with Jan Brett's illustrations, I was captivated. I have read it to my four children over and over again, and I always find a new detail that I missed before. Wonderful book!!! ... Read more

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Tomi Ungerer, illustrator of Jeff Brown's original Flat Stanley and winner of the prestigious 1998 Hans Christian Andersen Illustrator Award, paints the man in the moon as a benevolent, soft-bodied man who curls up in "his shimmering seat in space." Most evenings, he looks over longingly at the happy, dancing earth people, until one night when he can't resist catching the fiery tail of a comet and hitching a ride to Earth. Ungerer, ever satirical, reports the resulting frenzy of authorities upon hearing the crash landing: "The noise brought hundreds of people from a nearby town. Soldiers sped to defend the earth. Firemen hastened to quench the flaming light. The ice cream man hurried to set up his stand for the spectators." Of course, when the crowd discovers the unidentified fallen object, "statesmen, scientists, and generals panicked." Moon Man is thrown in jail, facing criminal investigation! How will he ever return to his lunar dwelling? Kids will love this quirky "there's no place like home" tale, and Ungerer's gentle, funny mocking of "important people" won't be lost on anyone.(Ages 4 to 8) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Childhood classic
Thank God I bought this book before it went out of print. This was without a doubt one of my favorite books as a child. Never since has a book's illustrations so deftly captured the feel and character of the story. It is a book every child should experience and every adult should appreciate.

MOON MAN - Great Story!
Moon Man is a great book! It was my "favorite" book as a child. I discovered this book in my elementary library. I must have checked it out consecutively for two years. I filled many library check out cards.

I love this book because you really feel sorry for the Moon Man. He desperately wants to join us "earth people" but is not welcomed. He is constantly being chased for capture. Just a good vintage book with a great storyline!

Several years ago the school library was getting rid of the old books and my sister (a teacher there) brought this exact Moon Man book and gave it to me. In fact, till this day I still cherish this book and now share it with my two little daughters who also enjoy listening to me read it. ... Read more

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David Kirk, creator of the bestselling favorites Miss Spider's Tea Party and Miss Spider's Wedding, has created another deliciously quirky, rhyming Miss Spider adventure. This time the amiable arachnid is car-shopping with her husband Holley. At Mantis Motors, a praying mantis named Mik is a used car sales-insect: "Mik Mantis crooned, 'This honey runs/On Nectar from a flower./Its two-stem engine is equipped/With turbo-bumble power,/And capable of reaching speeds/Near ninety yards per hour!'"

Miss (or is it now Mrs.?) Spider and Holley explore other car lots (including Meg's Wings n' Things) and encounter a few near misses, but all ends well thanks to the help of benevolent Moth Sue. The book's clever and original verse is laced with subtle ironies that won't be lost on you or your little ones; in the first spread, for example, a note arrives "snail mail," because the postal carrier is a snail. Kirk's exuberant, luminous colors and hilarious, cartoonish depictions of the bug world are truly wonderful. Miss Spider's New Car is the perfect book for any child who loves cars or bugs--not to mention a clever gift for any adult itching to buy his or her dream car. (Ages 4 to 8) ... Read more

Reviews (17)

she loves the "chuggy buggy"
My 2 year old loves this book. She loves the variety of silly sounds and she is delighted by the pictures. We love reading it to her. Now on to the rest of the Miss Spider series......

Great Pictures
Quite by accident we stumbled upon MISS SPIDER"S TEA PARTY when my granddaughter was five. That book was to be touched,read, and taken to bed a many nights before she fell in love with the next one (MISS SPIDER'S WEDDING). The rhyming does not take away from the message of virtues that can be found in any culture. Holley is her hero because he wears glasses and shows kindness. We have collected all of Mr. Kirk's books and can't wait for future books to be presented. The vividness and texture of the pages held her attention long after we had finished reading a particular page. She clapped and cheered for Holley and wanted explanations of phrases that at that time was beyond her comprehension. Now she reads these books herself and although she has them memorized by heart; she still turns page by page to view the characters and touch the colors. What a wonderful way to start on the pathway of reading for fun.

The Chuggy Buggy is the Best
My daughter loves the line about the Chuggy Buggy and this is her favorite of the Miss Spider books. Of the three it is the one we read the most. She loves it and I have to admit it is pretty fun.

Not the strongest entry in the series
The illstrations, while vivid, are a bit obtuse and difficult to discern. The prose doesn't flow. The book simply can't stand alone the way the "counting Book" and Miss Spider's Mom, do. If your child is hooked on Miss Spider, then this will be a fun addition to your collection, but it shouldn't be your first choice.

Miss Spider's Wedding
This book is pure poetry; a tender love story with rhyming language that flows to the ear like warm honey. It presents softly the mystery of attraction, devotion and pairing between individuals who from outward appearances are totally unsuited for one another. Dramatically illustrated, the romance between aphid and arachnid teaches tolerance for and acceptance of those who are different from ourselves. Its lyrical vocabulary is satisfying to the adult reader as well as little people. In fact, it brings tears to my daughter-in-law's eyes when she reads it to Jack and Mimi. ... Read more

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Imagine the excitement of rooting around in an old attic and discovering the letters, diaries, and photo albums of a relative. What if that memorabilia opened a window on the sinking of the Titanic, the most famous sea disaster of all time? That's exactly what happened to Leighton H. Coleman III. Exploring the attic of his relative Daisy Corning Stone Spedden, he found many personal treasures, including a charming book Daisy had written for her 8-year-old son, Douglas, in 1913. This story, combined with award-winning artist Laurie McGaw's gorgeous watercolor illustrations, actual family photographs, keepsakes, and historic postcards, weaves the fabric of Polar the Titanic Bear, an engaging slice of history for all ages, told through the black glass eyes of an extraordinary toy bear named Polar.

The story begins in the toy workshop where Polar is born, and quickly moves to the point where he is given to "Master," Daisy Spedden's son Douglas. Soon the boy and bear are inseparable! As the wealthy Speddens are world travelers, Polar and his new family sail from New York to Algiers and on to the French Riviera, until it comes time for them to return to America on the Titanic. On the fateful night of the sinking, Polar and the Speddens are lucky enough to be lowered down the side of the luxury liner in a lifeboat, but when the family boards the rescue ship, Polar finds himself left behind! How will Polar make it back to his best friend?

In the epilogue, rich with family photographs, the historical context for the story is fully and engagingly explained, with more details on the Titanic disaster as well as a smattering of toy history. This is a wonderful gift book--the richness and emotion of the story are all the more poignant when enhanced by the Spedden family photographs, their tragic personal story, and the reflection of an era that will never exist again.(All ages ... excellent for reading aloud to ages 6 and older, but perfect for 9- to 12-year-olds, too.) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (17)

An excellent source for children to learn about the Titanic!
I found this book excellent! It's a great way for children tolearn, not only about the world's most famous maritime disater, butfor them to also have an understanding of what life was like for the wealthy to have lived during this era. I plan to be a teacher and have already acquired this book and have read it to several children. What a better way to promote history than through a true story, and with the perspective through a bear's eyes. Highly Recommended! If fact, I am doing a rhetorical criticism paper on this book.

A children's book for all ages.
Having read virtually dozens of books on the RMS Titanic, I figured a children's book on the topic to be entertaining at best, but certainly not informative. Polar the Titanic Bear was written by Daisy Corning Stone Spedden as a Christmas gift to her son, Douglas. The book chronicles a period of approximately two years in the life of the family's 6 year old son from the point of view of his new teddy bear, Polar. The story begins with Polar's assembly in one of the finer toy stores in North America. Polar is placed on display in a store and purchased as a Christmas gift for Douglas. The reader is then sent on various journeys throughout the world with the Spedden family, culminating with their voyage on and subsequent rescue from the Titanic. What makes this book most appealing is the real life glance into the lifestyle of the affluent family prior to the Depression. Because it was written by a mother to her child with no intention to publish, there is no fluff or marketing appeal added. This book is, in effect, a true-life diary of Pre World War I America complete with pictures from the author's own collection. The book is a touching display of motherly affection for her child. It ends with an epilogue (added for publication) detailing the years following the book's creation. The ending is emotional and sadly tragic. Though written for children, Polar the Titanic Bear is a touching story for readers of all ages and interests.

A book with so much to offer!
This book has much to offer, for young readers and for adults. It is a wonderful glimpse into history, told from the perspective of a Steiff polar bear, who is very much a part of the life of young Douglas Spedden. His family's travels and his young life unfold in a beautiful text that is illustrated with sensitive illustrations and historical photographs. The Speddens traveled on the ill-fated Titanic. The incredible drama of that event unfolds in the most personal narrative. The magnficent beauty of the ship is conveyed as the family enjoys its commodious luxury. The drama of its sinking is compelling as well as touching in the describtion of the heartbreaking separation of Polar from young Douglas. This is how a young child would remember such an event. Fortunately, Polar is found and reunited with his friend.

The story behind the story is as wondeful as the book itself. Leighton H. Coleman III found this wonderful manuscript in his grandfather's barn. It was written by his cousin, Daisy Spedden. How brilliant of a mother to convert a traumatizing event into a story for her little boy! Her tender insight, the wonder of discovery and the perfect blending of history and narrative--ocean liners, wonderful bears--all of these components make this a perfect children's book that is both educational and entertaining (for parents, too!). I have given scores of copies to my friends with children and to my many adult friends who are fascinated by ocean liners and the Titanic. The book is well-crafted with much to offer.

Polar the Titanic Bear
I liked the story because when Polar was lost he was reunited with his owner at the end of the story. The person that read me the story said that this story was true because the granddaughter of Polar's owner found this story in her attic and wrote a book about it.

Precious
To me, "Polar, The Titanic Bear" is a precious book because it has so many fascinating dimensions to it. On the one hand, it is a charmingly written children's story about a child's stuffed polar bear and the journeys it takes with it's master around the world, culminating ultimately aboard the Titanic. Second, it is a must have for Titanic scholars as it provides us with insight into the Spedden family that traveled in First Class and survived the disaster by getting into Boat #3. The father, Frederic Spedden, was one of the few First Class male passengers who was so fortunate as so many other men that night died.

But finally, there is the extra poignance that this story takes on because of what it ultimately represents, and that is the love of a mother for her son in writing this book and presenting it to him as a Christmas gift, as Daisy Spedden did for eight year old Douglas. The closing narration of Polar reflects the hopes and wishes all parents have for their children, "I hope he will be blessed with a long and happy life" and then you find out that Douglas, after surviving the Titanic, lost his life just a year later at age nine when he was struck by a car while at his parents summer home. Only the hardest of hard-hearted people could not be moved to tears by learning that. In the end, as we read ultimately of how the Speddens were able to move on from this tragedy in their lives, this helps make "Polar" filled with more insights for adults than the average children's book might have. No Titanic enthusiast can afford to be without this book. ... Read more

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"See the piggy, / See the puddle, / See the muddy little puddle. / See the piggy in the middle / Of the muddy little puddle. / See her dawdle, see her diddle / In the muddy, muddy middle. / See her waddle, plump and little, / In the very merry middle." So begins Charlotte Pomerantz's irresistibly catchy verse story The Piggy in the Puddle. It's the classic "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em" tale, as the little she-piggy's father, mother, and brother take turns exhorting her to exit the mud puddle in which she is frolicking, only to have her respond with a happy "Nope!" One by one, they give up and plunge into the puddle where they too discover the joys of the "squishy-squashy, mooshy-squooshy, oofy-poofy" mud.

James Marshall, creator of the George and Martha books, provides the perfect visual accompaniments. True to form, he depicts the admonishing father pig ("See her daddy, / Fuddy-duddy, fuddy-duddy, fuddy-duddy. / 'Don't you get all muddy, / Muddy muddy muddy muddy") as a large, fez-wearing, mustachio-sporting hog, standing on a box of soap. All you can see of the scolded little pig is the end of her snout and the word "Nope!" Young children will delight in the silly, repetitive verse of this Reading Rainbow Book--and of course the forbidden pleasures of being in the middle of a messy, messy muddle. (Excellent read-aloud for preschoolers, but perfect for early readers ages 4 and older) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Squishy-Squashy, Mooshy-Squooshy,Oofy-Poofy Fun.....
"See the piggy,/See the puddle,/See the muddy little puddle./See the piggy in the middle/Of the muddy little puddle." She dawdles and diddles. She waddles in the merry middle. She dives and paddles, wiggles and giggles and though she's making the rest of her family very angry, she's having a blast. What's her daddy, mommy and brother to do? No matter how hard they try to convince her to get out of the muddy middle of the puddle and wash up with soap, she always says "Nope!" Well as the old saying goes...If you can't beat 'em, join 'em. And that's just what each of them do..... Charlotte Pomerantz's piggy puddle classic, is as fresh and delightful today as it was when she wrote it over twenty-five years ago. Her joyful, rhyming text, full of silly verse, wordplay and tongue-twisting alliteration is complemented by James Marshall's very familiar, humorous and expressive illustrations and together this dynamic duo will have youngsters giggling and laughing out loud at the antics of this charming pig family. Perfect for early readers, The Piggy in the Puddle makes an even better read aloud story the entire family will enjoy. This is a book to treasure and share now and with each new generation to come. Make sure you get your copy, today!

A great book for children 18 months through 99 years.
My youngest child in now 14. I thought I wouldn't have an opportunity to read "Piggy in the Puddle" again until I had grandchildren. However, having recently started a music enrichment business for preschoolers, I am thrilled to be able to again dig out my well-used copy of this book. Before reading the book in my music class, I explain a little about rhythm and rhyme and have the children start a tapping pattern on their legs and I read the book along to their rhythm. They love the book just like my children did. My older daughter has written a review of this book starting that we have it memorized and we do. The first time my male friend was introduced to "family dinner" at our home, he had to sit through four of us reciting, from memory, "see the piggy, see the puddle, etc.". He now also reads it in the preschool music classes he teaches. And to add another generation, my 77 year young mother reads it to the inhabitants of a nursing home she visits to bring cheer and laughter to them. If you have children (or don't but love fun, giggly books), be sure to order "The Piggy in the Puddle"

Frequent Choice of Two Year Old
I gave this book to my granddaughters, ages three and one, last Fall. Recently I attended a birthday party for the now two-year old. After events quieted, the birthday girl asked me to read a book. I asked her to go pick one from her room and she came back with the Piggy in the Puddle. I read it twice to both girls and they still wanted to hear it again. Their mother says it has been their favorite ever since I gave it to them. I believe they love the lilting, rhythmic beat of the language in the book. And of course--the piggy is a bit naughty!

Do we love it? YEP!
We checked this out from the library a few weeks ago, and it's a hit! I homeschool my six kids and they've asked for this one EVERY day. A first around here. They love it so much, they've assigned parts and we're planning to perform it as a play for our friends (if we can just get our three-year-old piggy to stay in the muddy middle...) This is a treat and I think it my be four-year-olds first memorized story.

silly willy oofy poofy fun!!!
What you need is lots of soap and lots of this book! But, the little piggy said oofy poofy, oofy-poofy nope, actually, yes!!! run out right now and buy this book!! Two curly pig tails up!!!
Why are you still reading? Why aren't you out buying this book?
Go Now!!!! ... Read more

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In the awfully silly I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie, children's librarian and author Alison Jackson bypasses pilgrims completely and cuts straight to the stomach of Thanksgiving in America--dinner. A slightly dizzying new spin on the well-loved cumulative rhyming song "I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly," this madcap picture book stars a ravenously hungry relative who comes to Thanksgiving dinner with a pie. Since she eats the pie in its entirety before she even gets in the house, she has to swallow some cider (that "rumbled and mumbled and grumbled inside her"). If you must know, "She swallowed the cider to moisten the pie, / The Thanksgiving pie, which was really too dry, /Perhaps she'll die." The story continues in this vein, as we watch the hosts grow visibly alarmed--and the children visibly delighted-- by the old lady's surreal appetite and supernaturally increasing girth. Illustrator Judith Byron Schachner--creator of the acclaimed Willy and May--has masterfully captured this ludicrous tale in hilariously haywire pen-and-ink drawings, splashed with watercolor. Kids will love this romping, rhyming frolic through a familiar favorite. (Ages 4 to 8) ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Hilariously funny Thanksgiving tale!!!
My children enjoyed this book emensely! Wonderful illustrations ! A new "Thanksgiving read" tradition!

Good golly Granny--show some manners!
*Hilarious* is the only word to describe this picture book which is a take off of the classic "I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly.

When an "old lady" comes to Thanksgiving dinner she swallows a pumpkin pie--whole. To wash down the pie (which was really too dry) she gulps some cider which "rumbles and mumbles and grumbles" inside her. Then to the horror of the adults and the delight of the children she gobbles the entire Thanksgiving feast!

The illustrations cap off the delightful text and add even more fantastic humor as the old lady grows in proportion with each outlandish bite.

A must read for story time--kids will be giggling more with every turn of the page. And you'll be "thankful" you don't have such a relative. Or do you?

Karma Wilson

I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie
This is a wonderful book. It is similiar to I Know An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly but nobody dies in this one. It is fun to read to little ones and to discuss whether some of these things could really have happened or not. I HIGHLY recommend it!

Fun Story with hilarious pictures!!
My children and I live this story. It became more fantastical as it went on and when Judy's illustrations display the woman as a Thansgiving parade balloon, it got raves of laughter from the kids! The details of the pictures add to the story. The dead mouse was fun to look for on each page!

There are much better books than this one out there!
As a preschool teacher who tries to include all kinds of traditions in my classroom, I'm always on the lookout for a new fun book. The kids do love I Know and Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly. That book is so preposterous - who could REALLY swallow a horse? However, this book takes the tradition of eating too much at Thanksgiving way overboard, with the woman who eats a family sized meal on her own, and ends up as a blimp sized balloon in the holiday parade. The illustrations show her bumpy fat body getting bigger and bigger. Children are already taught too young that they will get fat if they overeat. Childhood eating disorders are on the rise. One study showed that 40% of 4th graders are on diets. Children point out fat people to their parents in public, and parents never know what to say - it's hard to teach size-acceptance and tolerance in general to a child in the first place, but to add these pictures and negative stereotypes of fat people to a child's imaginative repertoire is not necessarily a good idea. 1 star for this book is 1 too many! ... Read more

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Fluffy, Skinny, and Boris tag along with Mama Cat all day long.Actually, Boris just naps. He snoozes while the others wash their paws, walk the stone wall, sharpen their claws, chase leaves, and engage in other fundamentally feline pastimes. But when the others curl up to nap, Boris stretches, yawns, and comes to life! Denise Fleming, creator ofIn the Small, Small Pond and Inthe Tall, Tall Grass, succeeds again with this gorgeous picture book. The bold, exuberant, rich illustrations are artfully crafted with color-saturated handmade paper. Astute youngsters will love finding other creature trios in each picture, plus a hidden mouse! (Ages 3 and older) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Such fun, for cat lovers and children alike
Ohio artist Denise Fleming works with paper to create the most extraordinarily detailed illustrations, as here in "Mama Cat Has Three Kittens" and in her other books as well. According to the text on the last page, "The artist used colored cotton rag fiber poured through hand-cut stenciles to create the illustrations for this book." The process sounds somewhat crude, but the result is illustrations of great vibrancy and detail. They are so alive that they very nearly leap off the page.

Mama Cat's children are named Fluffy, Skinny, and Boris. Looks like Boris is always missing out on the fun, as his favorite activity in life is napping. By the end of the book, however, he surprises everyone with his active nature--and then reverts to his usual self so we know that deep down he hasn't changed. It's a fun and reassuring look at how everyone has hidden depths. Great fun to read to little kids, and great fun to have a new reader read to YOU, the parent, as it's short and sweet.

A great story to read to toddlers
My 3-year old daughter memorized this book by the time she was two. She still loves taking it out and "reading" it to us; the repetitive nature of the book really lends itself to very young children grasping the plot, and the beautiful, distinctive pictures are unlike most I've seen in children's picture-books. They're bold, colorful, and full of simple action. My daughter even used the paperback of this book as a pillow for three weeks; she refused to go to bed without it!

Kitten antics entice early readers
Denise Fleming's illustrations make her books but her topics are always enjoyable for young children. I just stumbled across this book and can't believe I have missed it for the past 2 years. It is a precious book and a great gift for beginning readers. I have shared it with children ages 2-6 who enjoy the predictability. This book even stimulated me to write a cat song, to add to my collection of over 200 songs and fingerplays appropriate for young children.

Really Great Book for Beginning readers
This is a really cute book about a mother cat and her three kittens. Two of the Kittens copy everything the mother does and the third only sleeps. It has really bright drawings and the antics of the cats will make you smile. Then at the end the last kitten suprises the others in a really sweet ending to a really great kids book. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Excellent children's book with beautiful drawings
The author is a superb artist. I have been collecting this African artist's one of kind ceramics for a number of years so I was excited to find that he wrote and illustrated a book. My seven year old son loves this book. His first grade teacher read the book in class when they were studying the folk stories of the world. The drawings in the book are worth the price of the book.

I read the book in my classroom then saw it come to life!
I loved this book! One day an author named Baba Wague Diakite came to our school to talk about his book "The Hunterman and the Crocodile." Each classroom got a copy of the book which I read. Soon I discovered that the story was going to be performed as part of the first school play of the year! Even though my class wasn't in it I got to meet Baba-Wague while working on the set since he lives right down the street from my school! And though I had to see it performed four times( because I was asked to do sound) I never got tired of hearing the same same story. I guess seeing "The Hunterman and the Crocodile" come to life gave the meaning of the story even more meaning. I would reccomend this book to anyone of any age.

This is the best book in the whole world. I love it!!!
This is a wonderful children's book. I love it!! We need more authentic authors and illustrators of folk tales from Africa. Where did these drawings come from? They're FABULOUS!!! ... Read more

Book Description

In the streets and canals of Venice, Gabriella can hear nothing but sweet music. The drying laundry goes slap-slap, the church bells go ting-aling-ling, and the lire go jing-aling-ling. Soon, Gabriella is humming her way through town -- and everyone hears her song! Some find it sad, others smile when they hear it -- but none can forget the beautiful melody. Before long, a certain struggling composer is inspired by Gabriella's song -- and a beautiful symphony is born. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

EVERYTHING I WANT IN A BOOK FOR MY KIDS
This is such an enchanting, smart and magic little book. It has all the elements I look for in a book for the kids I read to. Through it kids can learn about another city (a quite a wonderful one at that), the power of music and the charm and love commen people of a town can provide for each other. I have read a lot of kids books and this one is really, really special.

A whimsical musical
Candace Fleming's prose sings, and you cannot help but be transported to another place by Gisele Potter's charming illustrations.

A creative look at how musical composition is inspired ...
The opening lines of this book hooked me: "Ah, Venice. The Piazza San Marco. The Grand Canal. St. Mark's Cathedral." This is the way to inspire a child to look outside his neighborhood! Gabriella's Song is a wonderful, richly textured book about how music is inspired and passed from person to person. My 3-year old, a music lover, enjoyed this book on the first read! ... Read more

Book Description

On August 28, 1963, the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered his most memorable and inspiring speech to a country divided by riots over racial injustice. With the words "I have a dream," King invoked his vision of a racially harmonious America, where "little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers." This elegant gift edition of Dr. King's unforgettable speech is the perfect way to share his powerful message of hope and compassion. Featuring the complete text and a foreword by King's daughter, the Reverend Bernice A. King, I Have a Dream presents a moving portrait of a visionary at the peak of his influence. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

The Dream
What better gift can a parent give a child than a vision of a free and just future. This beautiful book is the illustrated text of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's speech given in Washington D.C. on August 28, 1963.

The text of King's inspirational speech is illustrated by 14 African American artists/illustrators. Each illustration is attractive and deftly illustrates points in Dr. King's speech. Any of the illustrations could well serve as pictures for someone's wall. Every illustration is noteworthy and inspirational. I love the cover illustration by Leo and Diane Dillon. Other illustrations that I am moved by include You Have Been the Veterans of Creative Suffering by Tom Feelings and The Table of Brotherhood by James E. Ransome.

This book would serve well for a method to introduce children to Martin Luther King. Whether as a teacher or parent you choose to read the whole text of the speech or discuss King's life and his importance in American history, may depend on the age of the child. While the recommended ages for reading are 4 to 8, a four year old may not understand the message. Certainly, this book would serve as a tool for older children or even adults to get to know King and his message.

I think that every American should read the text of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s I have a dream speech. It is as deeply meaningful and powerful today as it was in 1963. What better way to preserve the memory of Martin Luther King's speech than owning a copy of this book either for your children or yourself. This is a truly beautiful book which would be a great and lasting addition to a children's library.

I Have a Dream
I introduced this book to my fourth graders before Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The pictures served as a dramatic representation of what Dr. King wanted. My students were inspired by the art work displayed in the book. However, the speech was over and beyond what my students could understand. I would recommend this book for older children and adults. I appreciated having his speech in its entirety and not just the snippets we usually hear.

The Best Ever and After.
' I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of creed'. That all men are created equal'. Most of you have probably heard of this speech from many of Martin Luther King Jr. books, and probably have heard the amazing story a million times. But hearing what his wife has to say about all of the changes and differences that he has done is like having a big serving of your favorite food. If you like poetry or bubble bursting stories you'll adore this book. She tells you a variety of things from sad, bad, and, exiting things. Also on top of all of that the pictures are wonderful and they tell a lot of what has to do with the passage. This book will lift you from your seat and you'll never know, because this book will take you away. I don't care who you are but this book is for you so get it, its waiting!

This book was written by: Correta Scott King
The title was: I Have a Dream

I cry every time I read it
I used to read this to my kids when I was a children's librarian in an African-American school in Detroit, and they loved it. It has such amazing, beautiful pictures- you can't really understand their beauty until you see the book in front of you. And of course, the speech is incredibly moving. Here is the full text of the speech, but since there isn't too much on each page, and there is such beautiful artwork to enjoy, even 4th graders could sit there in awe at what was read to them, and what was shown them.

A beautiful book for both children and adults
Don't be fooled by the fact that this is marketed as a children's book: "I Have a Dream" will appeal to readers of all ages. In this book the full text of Martin Luther King's famous speech is accompanied by 14 superb works, most of them in full color, by 15 different artists.

The book contains a thoughtful forward by Coretta Scott King and a brief but informative biographical supplement about Dr. King himself. A magnificent black-and-white photographic portrait of Dr. King in his oratorical mode serves as an effective complement to the rest of the book's illustrations. Also noteworthy are the final pages of the book, in which the artists briefly share their personal thoughts about Dr. King's legacy and about their contributions to the book.

The power of Dr. King's speech is greatly enhanced by the beautiful artwork of this book. The pictures encompass many different artistic styles and techniques. Each one is a masterpiece which invites the reader to return and reflect upon it.

As I noted at the start of the interview, this book should be enjoyed by both adults and children. It would make a wonderful gift for individuals interested in the civil rights movement, in African-American history, in multiculturalism and racial reconciliation, or in contemporary art. This book is a fitting tribute to one of the 20th century's most influential visionaries. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Every kid should have this book read to them!
What a great story! I have read this book to my 4th grade class and they love it. It's for children of all ages. The illustrations are outstanding and as usual Gary Soto is very entertaining.

A wonderful book that relates to the Hispanic culture.
I really think this book is great because there were so many things in the book that remind me of my life as I was growing up as a child. I really like the language that is used in the story because it entangles a little of the Bilingual language with English. I read this book to my students and it was a big hit with them. They read it over and over again every day. I asked some of them why they liked it so much and many of them responsded that they could relate to the story line in one way or another. The school that I teach at it predominantly Hispanic and so this book has really touched base with all of my students in one way or another. I hope that Gary Soto never quits writing these kinds of wonderful books!

Sleek and sophisticated
A remarkably original book. The illustrations are well wrought, and the story contains some of the most evocative I've heard in a picture book. Describing Novio Boy's collar, the book says it was, 'a leather one with real gems that sparkled at night when cars passed in the street'. The cats themselves are a twinge odd. Drawn with cat bodies but human eyes, teeth, and moustaches, they are just disturbing enough to keep the pictures interesting. It's a colorful book as well, full of beautiful swirling scenes and bold shapes. The use of Spanish throughout the text is seamless as well, never striking the reader as out of place or jarring. This book would read well with other stories that incorporate more than one language in their text. Or, kids could read it with other picture books that take place in Hispanic communities. Or, it could be paired with other stories where hungry preying animals fail to get a meal. A beautiful book to read aloud to groups.

Nice children's book
The book "Chato's Kitchen" is designed for the age group 4-8. It's the story of a cat, Chato, who has some culinary plans involving the harmless mouse family next door. There are quite a number of Spanish words--and this, I think, adds a rather exotic touch to the book. However, some of the English words are beyond the vocabulary of an average 8 year-old, and this may inhibit readability. The characters and the plot allow for a great deal of acting out if one reads the book aloud.

Another Gary Soto hit!!!
Any controversy surrounding this book is misplaced. It is a well-written story that entices children to want to to read it and other books. Rarely is there such a fine blending between the words of the author and the pictures of the illustrator. My students love this book and read it again and again. ... Read more

Amazon.com Reviews

As all the birds agree at the end of this pretty bilingual picture book, "You can't tell much about a bird by looking at its feathers." ("No se puede juzgar a un pájaro por su plumaje.")

The bird in question is a cuckoo bird with a golden voice. She may start out behaving pretty badly, leaving others to do her share of the work, but she sure pulls through in a pinch. After all, what's a full-throated bird to do when the fields are burning? Rescue the seeds, of course, so there will be food next year.Though the other birds assume she's far too frivolous to be any use, that's just what Cuckoo does.

In this bilingual retelling of an old Mexican tale, Cuckoo [Cucu] not only saves the seeds, but also loses her voice in all the smoke and soot. When it finally returns, her lovely singing voice has become a raspy bark, able only to "cuckoo," not to sing.

Beautifully illustrated with bright backgrounds and contrasting cutouts and collages, the book tells its story in both English and Spanish on each page. No doubt we'll be seeing more of such volumes in the future, as publishers work to meet the demand for Spanish-language works. This particular story is a great introduction to the mysteries of multiple languages; the colorful energy of the book's art should keep kids wandering through its pages for a good long time.

[Recommended for kids 3-8; might be good first-year Spanish practice for older kids.] ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Beautifully illustrated and told
My four-year-old daughter loves this book. She asks for it over and over. Tonight I even caught her looking at it under her night light. She doesn't want to return it to the public library tomorrow so I quess I'll be ordering our own copy soon. The story is beautifully illustrated with bold lines and attractive bright colors. And it is just as beautifully told in simple yet well wrought lines.

Cuckoo: A Multicultural Book
Cuckoo is a beautiful, but lazy bird. The owl, doves, and even the rooster get tired of Cuckoo flying around and singing beautiful songs all day. They complain she never does her share of the work! That is, until one day Cuckoo notices a field fire about to ruin the season's crop they had just worked so hard to plant. Cuckoo's apparent bravery is shown when she saves the seeds by carrying them to the mole's hole. This also demonstrates her willingness to put others' needs before her own beauty. Children of all ages will love the moral of this endearing story: "You can't tell much about a bird by looking at its feathers." This beautifully, brightly, authentically illustrated story is adapted from a Mayan Indian tale from Mexico. The bilingual text adds appeal to children of other cultures, or children wanting to learn the Spanish language. The front cover includes authentic drawings of ornaments with the Spanish/English vocabulary that is presented throughout the book. With the combination of bright illustrations that shine like the sun, a good moral ending showing bravery of the main character, and the bilingual text, young readers aren't likely to forget Cuckoo.

Beauty is Within
Cuckoo is a very beautiful bird with a gorgeous voice. The problem is she is extremely vain. Cuckoo does not help the other birds gather seeds for food. One day there is a fire, and Cuckoo is the only one awake. Cuckoo salvages all of the villages seeds by storing them in a mole hole. The soot from the fire has caused her feathers to turn black. When everyone recognizes Cuckoo and what she has done they are all very proud of her and forgiving for her selfish past.

Note to teachers: This book has beautiful, colorful illustrations. You should definetly follow any activity you do with this text with an art project on mosaics with extraordinary colors. This book could be used to prove a very good moral lesson. Beauty is only skin deep, and no one person is better than the rest of the group. Everyone must pitch in their part. You could also use this to introduce a unit on Africa, because this is an African folk tale. ... Read more

Book Description

The best-selling illustrator of Harvey Potters Balloon Farm teams up with Catherine Cowan in this buoyant fantasy of a boy who brings home a wave based on the story by Nobel laureate Octavio Paz. Stunning oil paintings shimmer with light and laughter in this unexpected, unforgettable tour de force. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

"My Life With the Wave" is extraordinarily imaginative
I love books that begin with a fanciful, "what-if" premise. In this case, what if a sliver of the sea -- a wave -- followed a family home from the beach like a stray animal? The illustrations, humorous in a borderline-grotesque way, capture the muscular spirit of this fantasy. I need not convince my children to read this story again and again, and they need not waste time coaxing me. I love it because it permits every reader to imagine the delightfully surreal.

What happens when a boy bring home a wave from the ocean?
Kids are always bringing things home from the beach, but you have probably never seen a kid who brings home a stray wave. "My Life with the Wave" is based on the story by Octavio Paz, the Nobel Prize winning author from Mexico. At first the boy finds it is great fun to have a wave in the house; the sun comes to play with it and there are fish adorning the wave's hair. But waves are affected by the moon and the sun, and the boy discovers that the wave can get very moody at times. How do you get a wave to go back to the sea? This charming and imaginative tale has been translated and adapted for children by Catherine Cowan and illustrated by Mark Buehner, who has skillfully hidden a cat, a dog, a mouse, a whale and a sea horse in almost every picture (just to drive us even more crazy, I imagine). The best thing about this book is that no matter how much you kids are inspired, they will never, ever be able to bring home anything like a wave. At least, I certainly hope not.

A Truly Wonderful Children's Book
My Life With The Wave is, by far, my favorite children's book and just fascinates my 6-year-old daughter. The story, the writing, the illustrations are all wonderful. We've taken this book out of our local library many times. Now, we are buying our own copy, one for my daughter's teacher and one for a friend.

beautifully drawn and very entertaining
this book plays on the beliefs of a child; wanting the impossible. i must admit that i wanted a wave of my own after reading this book! the artwork is magnificent, the dialogue is intriguing yet understandable...this is a MUST have for anyone with children...or anyone with an imagination.

fantastic illustrations will capture the imagination
This is a translation and retelling of an Octavio Paz story about a boy who befriends a wave on his first trip to the seashore and brings it home with him "cup by small cup". The ensuing problems associated with domesticating a wave, while amusing and delightful, prove to be too much for the boy's family. They finally cleverly figure out how to take the wave home. Cowan's fluid adaptation suggests a love of language and fidelity to the original. Buehner's vibrant, colorful full-page illustrations capture the humor and silliness as well as the drama of the tallish-tale. Good design handsomely combines text and pictures to make this an outstanding book. ... Read more

Amazon.com

In 1225, Saint Francis of Assisi (1182-1226)--Italian founder of the Franciscan order of monks and a notorious nature lover--wrote "The Canticle of the Sun," an incantatory hymn of praise for all creation. Poet Reeve Lindbergh--daughter of aviator Charles Lindbergh and poet Anne Morrow Lindbergh--has gently respun part of this work in the stunning picture book The Circle of Days. A celebration of air, water, fire, earth, and life itself, this mesmerizing hymn begins, "Lord, we offer thanks and praise / For the circle of our days. / Praise for radiant brother sun, / Who makes the hours around us run."

We take our hats off to artist Cathie Felstead, illustrator of A Caribbean Dozen, who with watercolor, gouache, and collage, has created some of the most breathtaking land, sky, and seascapes we've ever seen. With a remarkable use ofcolorand cut paper, we witness the change of seasons, the scuttling of crabs, a skyful of fireworks, and moonlit cows. As an artist, she says she responded to the simple poem because, "Saint Francis took pleasure in the world with a childlike directness. He is the kind of saint whose words reach out to everyone." Youngsters will be soothed by the simple rhythm of the poem, and there's no better way to celebrate the wonders of our planet than with the graceful beauty of Felstead's unforgettable paintings. (Click to see asamplespread. Illustrations © 1998 by Cathie Felstead. Permission by Candlewick Press.) (All ages) ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Beautiful, lyrical, with depth...
This is one of my children's favorite books: the illustrations are gorgeous, the words lovely, the thought profound and cathartic. It's not your "thanks for my swingset and new toys" sort of prayer, but one that takes into account the cycle of day and night, the elements, the earth, the prey and the hunter, life and death. A baby appreciates the sounds and warmth of color; a child the unblinking address of those things which really matter.

celebrating the beauty of nature and all creatures on Earth
The editorial review explains a lot so I won't duplicate that content. Yes, this is a thanks to the Lord for all the creatures on the Earth, and the Earth itself. For those that have not yet read it, I want to tell you that it is not overly religious but instead is more of communicating the wonder and beauty of nature and our world. This would definitely appeal to environmentalists, one example being that one passage states the hunter and the hunted are "both the same" rather than the usual Catholic-religion idea that man rules over nature. The text rhymes and so has a singsong quality that children love. The book is large format with most pages having a large illustration spread across both pages. I love that on most of these pages there are 5-6 little cubes on the bottom with smaller illustrations that correspond very closely to the text. One example is "praise for brothers wind and air, serene or cloudy, foul or fair" the small illustrations are a windmill, a weathervane, a sailboat on white-capped waves, a boy holding a balloon in windy weather, clothes drying on the clothesline in the breeze, and a kite flying. I love these illustrations as they give the parent more to talk about and to teach new words (weathervane was one that my 3 year-old had not yet learned). This book is unlike most that are available. People are shown in many different skin tones and some are very obviously from non-American countries (India, Africa). The collage type illustrations are lovely and this illustration method is not commonly seen.

A glorious celebration of ALL Creation...
'Nuff said in the earlier reviews about the text portion...so on to the illustrations:

As an artist and homeschooling-mom I constantly look for ways to share the love of Things-Artistic with my child [and the children of homeschooling friends]. This volume goes to the top of my growing list of shining show-and-tell examples of "why you might want to become an 'Artist' when you grow up."

I contend that this book will please many, many more than simply those with a "preschool eye" as another reviewer noted. And for the individual who rated Felstead's work as "...dull, static, cluttered..." I suggest they've been watching way too much television!

I for one feel the artwork alone makes this a Must Have volume, and further suggest and contend that a serious study of it would make for a challenging and rewarding semester [or more] in the Fine Arts.

Patrice Stanton, Extremist Art

Great baptism/baby shower gift!
This is my current favorite gift to buy for baby christenings and showers. Its thoughts are profound, but accessible to all. I imagine that this is a book to be shared between parents and children for many years, even handed down to future generations. If you're looking for that special, meaningful gift that will last throughout childhood and beyond-- this is the one!

Lovely collage and text version of St Francis Book
As a church librarian, I bought this book for our pre-K students and I am glad I did. This is a lovely interpretation of St. Francis's Canticle of the Sun, with Lindbergh's words thrown in. All of creation is expressed through the lovely collage paintings which , with their bright colors and shapes, should please the pre-school eye. Very colorful, artistic message that God's creation is always there for us to admire and praise. ... Read more

Amazon.com

When second grader Gregory Sampson wakes up one morning to discover thathe has become a giant beetle, his ensuing day is distinctlyKafka-esque, yet in a totally childlike way. For one blighted day, young hard-shelled Gregory faces an extreme version of the common outrage of the 6- to 8-year-old whose parents have ceased watching and admiring his every toddling move: No one notices him one bit. Not when his slippery beetle self falls down the stairs and he lies there wriggling all six legs in the air. Not when he waves a claw through the air at the breakfast table. Not even when he bellows across the kitchen, "Look at me. I'm a giant beetle."

Lawrence David's deft and buoyant comprehension of family life enables him to relate this tale of childhood invisibility with both pathos and humor. To Gregory's pronouncement, the father replies: "And I'm a hippo." "You've always been our little bug-a-boo," says the mom, her eyes on the morning headlines. His sister merely takes his bacon, murmuring, "Do bugs like bacon?" Gregory's changes get noticed, finally, by his best friend Michael.

Despite the frustrating oblivion of his family, the beetle boy's adaptive abilities keep the story brave and easygoing. Even when Gregory's at the height of his confusion, we see him cutting extra armholes in his shirt for his two new arms ("Or were they legs?"), whopping a soccer ball with his antenna to make a score, and generously offering to use his extra arms to carry his clueless sister's backpack. In equal measure, Delphine Durand's busy, vivacious illustrations convey that no matter the depth of a problem, life itself doesn't lose all its color.

In this wonderfully told story, the parents don't remain distracted forever, and the child--forgiving of their trespasses--accepts, and is healed by, their tardy recognition of the huge changes they didn't see. It's a moving, beautifully rendered moment--and most certainly powerful enough to turn a six-legged bug back into a little boy. (Ages 6 and older) --Jean Lenihan ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Beetle Boy
I think the book Beetle Boy is a book for people who like fiction books. That is true because it has a boy turning into a beetle. Also it has some humar in it too.

Beetle Boy
The book Beetle Boy by Lawrence David and Delphine Durand is about Gregory Sampson waking up as a Ground Beetle. Find out what happens in Beetle Boy.

Very Clever Kafka Adoption for Kids
This is a very clever book, which my 6 year old son loves and which I found laugh-out-loud funny myself. I bought it at holiday time after seeing it on an Amazon recommended list for kids, and we weren't disappointed.

Gregory Sampson (like Kafka's Gregor Samsa, get it?) is a 2nd grader who wakes up and is surpried to learn that he has transformed into a giant beetle. He tries telling his parents, but they won't listen to him - his mom says "You were always our little bug-a-boo dear." He is forced to improvise by cutting extra holes in his shirt to accomodate his extra arms (or are they legs he wonders?), and he uses his extra appendages to score in soccer. All in all, this is a charming story which explores some of the themes of alienation and fright that Kafka brilliantly explores in The Metamorphosis, but with a light, humorous touch. Kids will love it, and you will enjoy reading it to them. I wish I could say the same for all childrens' books.

Beetle Boy
Gegory turns into a bug and only his best friend notices. The humor will be appreciated by any adult who has either raised or taught a 2nd grader like Gregory, who experiences a transformation. This book has excellent color illustrations and will be of interest to students from the 1st grade through the 3rd grade levels.

Better than Pokémon
I sent this to my eight year old nephew and I hear he's very upset that he's not Beetle Boy. He's memorized much of the book already. It's replaced Pokémon as his reason for living. I've read it twice myself and it's a very cool, fantastically funny and sweet book. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Zeesie has a problem--she doesn't want to visit her grandparents on Eldridge Street. Her teeny-tiny grandmother, Bubbeh Ruchel, is nothing to worry about, but Zaydeh Avrum is another story. Zaydeh ("grandfather" in Yiddish) is stern and stooped-over, and complains that "children bring in dirt and make noise." But since her mother is having a baby, Zeesie has no choice but to make the trip. When she arrives, Zaydeh impatiently quizzes Zeesie about what holiday it is and why it is important to the Jewish religion. Zeesie becomes more intimidated than ever when she learns it's Simchas Torah, and that Zaydeh expects her to attend a celebration at the synagogue with him.

Although Zeesie arrives at the festivities reluctantly, she ends up having the time of her life amidst the beautiful stained glass, sweet foods, laughter, singing and ... dancing. And what's this? Even severe, stiff Zaydeh is dancing! During her stay on Eldridge Street, Zeesie learns about the history and traditions of Judaism, and she also sees that there's more to white-haired Zaydeh than she thought. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Absolutely charming story, rich in Jewish culture.
It's a wonderful book, heartfelt and fascinating. The illustrations, too, are delightful. Highly recommended!

An extraordinarily wise, tender and engrossing book
Elsa Okon Rael is making a true place for herself in young children's literature. Both this book and her earlier Zeesie story evoke a time in immigrant history, but more, bring to life a very real little girl amid her loving family. There is no better gift for a grandmother to give her grandchild or one that will be reread so often.

Delightful!
This book captures you quickly and holds you the length of the story. I found the story enlightening as it explained one of the Jewish holidays with reverence and warmth. A wonderful book for younger children of any religion!

Sydney Taylor Award Winner for Younger Children
This is a delicious Simchat Torah story based on the tension between a bright little girl and her fearsomely stern grandfather. Stylized illustrations capture New York's Lower East Side in the 1930's as a curious heroine provokes a joyous outcome. For younger children. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Have you ever felt alone in the world while everybody else prancesaround "two by two, / he and she, / curly and / straight, fancy / and plain, / different and same"? The little white kitten in Chris Raschka's heartwarming picture book Like Likes Like sure has. "Unlike the rest. / Unlucky, alone," the kitten is left to his own devices. He romps in rows of roses and sleeps in grass and moss until... "Look! In luck." He sees a sweet brown kitten. "Like likes like," and off they bound. "Not alone now, / two together, / in rows and rows / of roses." Raschka, creator of Mysterious Thelonious and the wondrous Caldecott Honor Book Yo! Yes?, has a knack for communicating emotion--and life!--with pure color and spare, meaningful strokes. Kids will adore this simple tale of love, and along with the wee kitten, they'll perk up their ears and go from downcast to joyous in a few turns of the page. (Click to see a sample spread. Text and illustrations ©1999 by Chris Raschka. Reproduced with permission of DK Publishing, Inc.) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Perfect for toddlers & pre-schoolers
This is a terrific, heart-felt, picture book to share with a friend. Diversity is covered (white cat-brown cat; and same but different). Independence and initiative are introduced (white cat sets out on adventure to find like). Don't try to ask for it to do more with a story line for older readers -- it is not a Pulitzer and not meant to be one. The young (and young-at-heart) get all the simple messages loudly and clearly. Brilliant. Read it with someone you love.

likes it
My 12 month old daughter loves this book. She always brings this book to me thoughout the day so that I can read it to her. It is such a fun book to read and I enjoy it as much as she does (which is good because she makes me read it to her at least 3 times a day). I disagree with the idea that there is a lack of diversity and that diversity is portrayed as a bad thing in this book. At the beginning of the book when the cat is seeing pairs of animals going by the author says "Two by two, curly and straight, fancy and plain, different and same go." That to me starts the book on a note that the important thing is to have a friend that you get along with no matter if s/he is different or same. I think that the book isn't saying to be friends with people (or animals) that are similar to you, but that life can be more fun when you have friend. And yes, the book doesn't have a traditional storyline, but that is what makes it fun. It's different and I think that exposing kids to things that don't follow basic prescribed methods is a good thing.

illustrations and words are perfect together
I am a children's librarian. Read it to several groups of kids, and they loved it. Challenges our accepted idea of what a picture book should be, but don't assume that because of that, it won't appeal to children. It's a poem in picture book form, and the illustrations are a delight.

Pathetic
The Horn Book was correct in its