Book Description

"Goodnight, Max," says Max's sister Ruby. But Max can't get comfortable. First he spills a glass of water. Then there are all those itchy cookie crumbs in his bed...and the moon shining through his window. Will poor Max ever fall asleep? Rosemary Wells' beloved Max and Ruby are back in an irresistibly touchable book that is also a satisfying bedtime story. Toddlers won't be able to resist all the tactile elements--fourteen tempting things to touch, move, even smell--while a gently humorous story makes this the perfect book for bedtime, naptime, or anytime! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

You have to be a fan
I bought this book after reading all the great reviews. It is a nice book, bright colors, lots of attention to detail, silly story line, but I didn't think the areas for the child to feel were large enough. The sticky candy in Max's pajamas is just about the size of a child's fingertip, the lace curtain is just a thin slip of fabric, the lightning is a skinny zig-zag of foil and the "cookie crumbs" sandpaper is only about a quarter-inch high. There are other touch-and-feel books that provide a much larger exploratory surface. Still, this book does contain a good variety (sticky candy, rough crumbs, fur, smelly sock, etc.)I'm not sure why, but that smelly sock always seems to be such a hit!

A touch of genius by Rosemary Wells
What a joy of a book! My baby loves feeling the surprises on each page from the crumbs in Max's pockets to the gummy nightcrawlers on his feet! A sweet story with tactile turns on each page. A classic in the making, I can hardly wait for a sequel!

A splendid board book for toddlers & preschoolers.
It's time for bed, but Max can't fall asleep in this board book for toddlers who will find here a delightful bedtime dilemma. Bright pages with tactile cut-outs attract attention with touch and feel surprises as Max faces a too-long night.

Max and Ruby star in this lovely story about going to bed
My children adore Max, and this book is no exception. My three-year-old had me read it to him no less than three times in a row today. He loves to touch the lace curtain, soft blanket, and the "spilled" water. And what a sister! Everyone needs a sister like Ruby!

Any parent who's tried to get their own "Max" to bed can sympathize with Ruby, the long suffering and ever patient sibling.

What a joyful little book!

Goodnight Max
The irrepresible Max and his ever-patient sister Ruby are backonce again in this humorous yet soothing bedtime tale, complete with"touch and feel" fun.

Max is unable to fall asleep, andhis mishaps require continuous changes of his pajamas. My 3- 1/2 year old grandson, a Max fan from babyhood, especially loves the feel of the cookie crumbs in the bed and the sticky candy on the pajama feet. Peeking under the real fabric blanket is also a big hit, and the "smelly" sock is met with hillarity every time.

The format is an oversized board book, but with an expanded text and richly detailed illustrations. The designs on Max's fun-theme pajamas makes us want to own them; the silver moon is appropriately silvery, and the fly swatter is made of real netting.

Goodnight Max is a wonderful companion piece to "Goodnight, Moon" and "Bedtime for Frances". Babies would love touching the fuzzy teddy bear and Max's furry tale; older pre-schoolers can open and close the window. It's the best Max yet. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Bunny Cakes
This book fascinates my 3-year-old, possibly because the actions of little brother Max are similar to hers! She is fascinated how the cakes are made. There even is an "icky" element to the story, which she delights in. Rosemary Wells continues to write in her captivating style and the illustrations are so enjoyable. As a parent, I enjoy reading this book over and over.

Max as always finds a way to get what he wants-a great book!
The charm of the Max and Ruby books owes much to the fact that many of us have had an older sibling or friend like Ruby---she knows more, is able to do more and wants to be in charge, but Max always finds a way to get what he wants! This book also explores the mystery of writing, and made my older son eager to learn to write---and I think writing is a topic less stressed in picture books than reading. Everyone should have a grandma like Max and Ruby, someone who will love both edible and inedible cakes equally! As always, Wells is wonderful!

another good Max and Ruby Book
I think this is one of the better Max and Ruby books, along with Bunny Money and Bunny Party and Max Cleans Up.

Max and Ruby
This is a nice little story that is popular with my three children ages 3,4,6. Any child who is a fan of Max and Ruby will like this story...........................

cakes
I liked bunny cakes b/c it kind of tells you to try as hard as you can and you will eventually get the hang of things.like max and making cakes and writing the ingerdients. ... Read more

Amazon.com

There should be a law that requires every child to sit on Grandpa's knee as he chants "Trot, trot, to Boston; trot, trot, to Lynn." Grownups who still giggle at the thought of Little Jack Horner pulling a plum out of his Christmas pie, or who make a wish on a star, murmuring "Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight" know the secret. They're the ones who will be handing down those same nursery rhymes to their own children, preserving an age-old tradition. But no child should be left behind.

In world folklore authority Iona Opie's collection, these invaluable and ancient nuggets of childhood verse are bursting with new life. Quirky and sly, sweet, gentle, rollicking, silly... the range of rhymes is breathtaking. Winner of over a dozen prestigious awards, including a Parents' Choice Award and an ALA Notable Children's Book award, this wonderful book is charmingly illustrated by Rosemary Wells, best known for her Max books (Max's Bath, Max's Bedtime, Max's Ride). A solid repertoire of nursery rhymes should be de rigueur for any aunt, uncle, grandparent, or parent worth his or her salt. This book is a must, as is its companion volume, Here Comes Mother Goose. (Click to see a sample spread from My Very First Mother Goose. Illustrations & copy; 1996 by Rosemary Wells. Permission from Candlewick Press.) (Baby to preschool) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (24)

The Mother Goose to Own
As the mother of four, I think I've read Mother Goose rhymes probably tens of thousands of times over the years. We've checked many Mother Goose books out of the library, but (thanks to my mom), this is the one we own. We return to it time and time again for several reasons. First, of all, it's big, which I really like because it means that I don't have to read the same rhymes night after night after night. There's ample room in it to poke around (also its size has allowed Opie to include in it some we didn't know - but quickly learned. My favorite of these is "Wash the dishes, Wipe the dishes, Ring the bell for tea; Three good wishes, Three good kisses, I will give to thee.") I also really like Opie's selection of rhymes. She's left out some of the grimmest, which makes the book appropriate for even the smallest of readers. This is not to say, however, that this a bland book. For Opie has included many really fun pieces. And this leads me to comment on Rosemary Wells' illustrations, which are warm and funny, in the most beautiful colors. She lends her own touch to this book. Sometimes she offers a new interpretation of a rhyme (see, for example, Humpty Dumpty, which it turns out in Wells' world really concerns a small bunny not very fond of boiled eggs). In other pictures, she simply adds hilarious, unexpected, fascinating detail. My daughters Rose, 2, and Daisy, 6, and I laughed and laughed over this book today, turning a sad sick morning into a happy time. I regularly find Rose, who is generally given to activities like bouncing, sitting quietly, poring over this book. This is the one to buy.

Two masters (mistresses?) at work
Iona Opie is one of the great folklorists we have right now and all English-speakers should be grateful for her (and her late husband Peter's) tireless work to preserve and present the poetry of children at play. This book is a terrific introduction to her ear for the best of this kind of poem and to the wonder of Rosemary Wells' imagination. As others have noted, you will return to this book over and over, when other favorites have long since passed into neglect. There is a second volume of these poems, also with Wells' illustrations.

Then try and find a copy of I Saw Esau, an amazing collection of children's playground rhymes from the past 50 years or so. They are by turns witty, crude, wonderous and cruel and the Sendak drawings that accompany them are great. It's not for small children, but a nine year old would love it.

In the meantime, enjoy Mother Goose!

A very good nursery rhymes book
My son loves this book, he is 4 and have most of them memorized, we borrowed it at first at the library, he loved it so much that I had to get him his own.I like it for it's simple and easy to remember lines, we read a couple of different nursery rhymes books, that I find is a little too much to remember for his age.If you buy this book be ready to keep reading it, 'cause your little one will be asking you again and again.

This is a must-have!
What a beautiful collection of nursery rhymes-my daughter loved this book from before she could even sit up-it is also available as a set of board books which I also highly recommend. Keep in mind Iona Opie, the editor, is English and uses some English rhymes or English versions, which has some people confused. The drawings are simple and charming, classic Rosemary Wells.

A wonderful update of an old classic
This book may keep Mother Goose nursery rhymes alive for many more generations to come. I was not particularly drawn to Mother Goose books - many of the rhymes I could remember seemed irrelevant to me. But this book has changed my view. My 3 1/2 year old son and I read it together regularly - he now chants the rhymes along with me. The collection is so well done, with rhymes you'd be happy to read to any child (none of the violent or gory rhymes), and the illustrations are utterly perfect & add tremendously to the content of the rhymes. We have shelves full of children's books, but I would put this in the top 2 or 3 - this is a classic. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

An Innovative New Learning Tool
MY KINDERGARTEN takes readers on a learning adventure from September through June, following eight kindergarten students (Odysseus, Terrance, Diane, Emily, Martha, Otto, Louise, and Roger), as they begin their first year of school, and their first year of learning in Miss Cribbage's kindergarten class.

MY KINDERGARTEN is filled with fun activities for readers to participate in, that will make them feel as if they are a part of the story, right there beside the children of Miss Cribbage's class. Young readers will adore the illustrations, and stories by Rosemary Wells, and parents will love the fact that their little ones are learning the alphabet, singing songs, reciting poems, counting to 10, reading stories, and more. Kindergarten teachers, and homeschooling parents will also enjoy this book, as it provides an innovative new teaching method that will boost childrens eagerness to learn, while having fun.

Erika Sorocco

Every kindergarten class needs this book
I like this book because it is arranged to follow the months and special days of the year. I like the songs and the CD that's available from Judy Freeman that goes along with the book. It ties in with many of our state's curriculum units. The students will identify with the characters in the book. I highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Ready or not, here she comes! That clever, mischievous, loving matriarch of the nursery knows more verses and ditties than you can shake a stick at.From the familiar "Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater" and "Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush" to the more obscure "I'm Dusty Bill from Vinegar Hill," this lovely, good-humored collection of nursery rhymes is sure to find a place on the shelf of classics. On the heels of her first award-winning collection, My Very First Mother Goose, world-renowned folklorist Iona Opie brings together still more of her never-ending supply of childhood verse. And once again the incomparable Rosemary Wells (Max's Bath, Max's Bedtime, Max's Ride) has joined Opie to enchant young readers as the two blend ancient verse with fresh new pictures. Soft, appealing watercolors depict a comical menagerie of ducks, bunnies, cats, and guinea pigs, wittily interpreting more than 60 old favorites. No new parent should be without this indispensable treasure. (Click to see a sample spread. Copyright 1999 by Rosemary Wells. Used by permission of Candlewick Press.) (Baby to preschool) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (6)

disapointing
This has a fairly nice selection of rhymes, and the pictures are bright, but the pictures seem rather unrelated to the rhymes -
and for a child just learning to speak it seems important that
the pictures and the rhymes match. I was given a copy but I do
not read it to my 2-year-old. I much prefer the Orchard Book of
Nursery Rhymes which i found at the local library. (Why three stars and not fewer? Because I saw at the library many nursery rhyme books that were worse.)

great children's book!
I just want to respond to the person who said that there was an error on what boys and girls are made of (p.26-27). This is a children's book of the 90s and the reversal was made intentionally to try to rid of stereotypes of boys and girls. This book has wonderful illistrations and large print, perfect for young children!

Down with stereotypes!
What a wonderful book! The text is classic and the illustrations are, of course, marvelous! To the disappointed reviewer who thought there was an error in the illustrations, you are incorrect! I just returned from a conference at which Ms. Wells spoke. The switch in the "what are little girls/boys made of" indeed was intentional on the part of the illustrator to stamp out those gender stereotypes! As Ms. Wells told us this weekend, "Mother Goose should be the Shakespeare of children's literature."! READ ON!

Great fun for parent and child!
The book is wonderful...as to the comment about the editor's error on the "what are little girls and boy's made of"...I too originally thought it was an error. After a closer look I discovered pictures of cute little girls in pigtails playing with frogs and mud and cute little boys in chefs' hats baking and having a great time. A terrificly subtle blast at stereotypes...give the book to someone you love!

An accessible and refreshing Mother Goose for all ages!
I loved Here Comes Mother Goose. My 11 year old daughter loved it too. Rosemary Wells is so clever, mixing up the what little boys and what little girls are made up was wonderful! The art and characters are what make this book standout for us. The ryhme selection also is great - the rhymes with violence have been skipped, nice for a change. We have both collections now and have given many as gifts. ... Read more

Book Description

It's a busy week for Max and Ruby: there's shopping to do, tea parties to throw, and cakes to bake for Grandma's birthday. From Monday to Sunday and every day in between, the fun never stops when you're hanging out with these two funny bunny siblings. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

great sticker fun for toddlers and preschoolers
For a recent trip we bought a large number of sticker and activity books for our toddler. These in the Sticker Stories series were very popular and helped make the trip a pleasant one.

There are seven colorful two-page spreads and one one-page picture on which to place stickers. These show various scenes from the Max & Ruby television show, including a tea party, cleaning Max's room, a visit from Louise, making a cake for Grandma and buying Grandma a birthday present. There are over 70 reusable stickers to place within these scenes, and they're labelled as to which pages they apply.

We will definitely buy more activity books from this series.

Good, but not great
I purchased this for my 5yr old son who loves Max & Ruby. I did not read it first, but I wish I had. He loved putting the stickers on the pages, but was disappointed that the stories were not the same as his books. For example, the birthday cake Ruby makes for Grandma is not the same as in the story(strawberry instead of raspberry). Also, there is too many stickers! He could not fit them all on the clean up page, and they ended up all over the page. I look forward to more Max & Ruby, but I will make sure next time I read any future sticker books first. ... Read more

Book Description

In this first counting book, Max trades his house with 2 chimneys, 3 soldiers, 4 bears, and all the rest of his toys for Ruby's 1 lovely doll, Emily. A fair exchange!Rosemary Wells's original four Max Board Books, published in 1979 by Dial and followed by an additional four in 1985, were the first high-quality board books in the U.S. and became immediate classics. Total sales of the eight books were over 1.2 million! But more important, they have been loved by millions of children. For the next generation Rosemary Wells has now completely re-illustrated all eight delightful Max books in her bold, new full-color style. These wonderful stories with real characters are funnier than ever. They are terrific 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 program and now the Prescription for Reading Initiative. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Max must be 3
Because my []son does the same exact things. Sherbert in the tub, favorite shirts, worm cakes...he does it all. This book is a fantastic buy for your [] boy or girl.

cute counting book with abrupt ending
Max wants Ruby's doll, Emily, but Ruby will not part with her. Max has a house with 2 chimneys, 3 soldiers, 4 bears, etc. but all he wants is Emily.

This is a cute counting book, especially for fans of this charming brother-sister bunny duo. But the ending is rather abrupt and always leaves my child wondering what happens next.

Great Book!
This a good book for any child of all ages to read. I am only 15 and I love Max. I watch the show whenever I can. I am proof that you can never be too old for things that are considered to be only for children. Parents or relatives that have or know a child, this is a very good book that is funny and has good pictures.

wonderful on many levels
My 13-month-old son has loved the pictures in this book since he was a tiny infant. He still loves the book. The story is very sweet, and it quite stands alone - unlike some other counting books, which have no "plot" aside from the numbers. I also appreciate that the boy-rabbit Max is shown to want a doll and that his sister (ultimately) thinks Max's trucks, soldiers, etc. are desirable toys.

I love to give this book as a new-baby gift. It is a delight!

Max's Toys
Our son Max loves to help the bunny Max count his toys. The illustrations catch his attention, and he enjoys finding the different toys in the pile on the last page. ... Read more

Book Description

It's Grandma's birthday, and Ruby knows exactly what Grandma would love-a beautiful ballerina box. Max also knows what she'd love-a scary pair of ooey-gooey vampire teeth. Ruby has saved up a walletful of bills, but as unexpected mishap after mishap occurs, money starts running through the bunnies' fingers.... Will they have enough left for the perfect present? Wells' adorable story is also a fun and lively introduction to early math.

"Wells' droll humor is right on the money." -School Library Journal, starred review
"A very funny birthday story." -Booklist, starred review ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Max does it again
A cute story about kids and shopping...and the things that can go wrong! Includes pages that you can copy so your child can have "bunny money". Very cute.

another good Max and Ruby book
I think this is one of the better Max and Ruby books, along with Bunny Cakes and Bunny Party. Has play money on the end pages that you can photocopy and cut out for your kids to play with. Neat concept and fun to discuss who the "famous rabbits" on the different bills are supposed to be.

Cute Kid's book, Great Math Lesson!!!
Cute! Max and Ruby go shopping for their Grandma's birthday, but are disappointed when their dream gift costs $100. They do not have much money and Max keeps wasting it. (Food, trip to the laundromat, bus fare, etc.) They manage to buy two "great" presents~ from Ruby, singing bluebird earrings, from Max glow in the dark vampire teeth. But their money is all used up. So Grandma picks them up and she wears the gifts all they way home.
It is a math lesson because they show how much money they have before and after the buy. (Like they have eight dollars, they spend two dollars, they have six left.)

Like Bunnies? Read This Book!
In the book Bunny Money by Rosemary Wells, bunnies Max and Ruby are trying to buy their grandmother a present for her birthday. Max and Ruby spend a lot of money. Will they be able to get what they want? Find out in Bunny Money. I really like Bunny Money because the book shows how much money the bunnies have.

Student from Grosse Pointe

Anthony L. LOVED this Rosemary Wells book!!
I am a second grader. My name is Anthony L. I have been reading a lot of books by Rosemary Wells in my classroom, and BUNNY MONEY is my favorite book. Grandma put the earrings and the vampire teeth on and she looked funny!! ... Read more

Reviews (13)

The Kids Love This Book
When I was a working librarian, I read this books (and the others)to my storytimes. When I retired I started to volunteer in an inner city school. I was not certain how the children would react to the book. I am now in my sixth year reading to Preschool, Kindergarten and First Grade. They hear the first four books each year and they always ask me to repeat the books. The line about "no one had ever asked him to come in" always gets a great response. I think everyone should read these McDuff books. So many classes can't be wrong!

Doesn't take a bite out of crime.Just out of shortbread.
Dear old Rosemary Wells.If you've ever read her books about that famous bunny Max or classic titles like, "Morris' Disappearing Bag" then you know that her stories, while disjointed, can often be truly charming works of preschool art.So when I discovered the McDuff books (written by her but illustrated by someone else entirely) I was ill at ease.I mean, Wells draws such cute little bunnies.How could anyone else adapt to her words?On reading the first book of the McDuff series, "McDuff Moves In", I was amazed to find myself suddenly on the oposte side of the fence.The pictures in this book are really quite charming.From the cute little Scottie named McDuff to the 1950s setting, visually this story's a charmer.But strange as it may seem, Wells's words are out-of-place here.Though a brief tale with little in the way of plot, somehow this book is not as direct or understandable as it might be.A pity.

On our first view of little white McDuff, he's sitting in the back of a city pound truck.After a providential bump in the road and a quick escape, the solitary doggy goes down a nice suburban street in search of food and shelter.Door number one at the first house growls at him.Door number two at the second house hisses at him.But door number three at the third house is just right.There, a friendly couple take him in, feed him, give him a bath, then decide they haven't room for a doggy.Fortunately an attempted car ride to the pound proves that maybe this couple has grown a bit attached to their shaggy new friend.Happy ending and shortbread biscuits for all.

The book bears a striking resemblance to Lyn Rossiter McFarland's subsequent similarly plotted picture book, "Widget".The difference, however, is that "Widget" is the stronger story.Though I was with "McDuff" through the beginning, about the time he stumbles on the kindly couple I found my eyebrows slowly beginning to lift.For example, when McDuff appears outside the third home, the book says the following: "Somebody opened the door and asked him to come in.It was Lucy. 'This is Fred', said Lucy".Looking at the picture of both Fred and Lucy staring at the pup on their porch, I naturally assumed that now the dog was named Fred.Not so much.The text and the pictures don't mesh particularly well either.When the book says that Fred checks McDuff's collar, the picture shows Fred sitting on a chair with McDuff hiding underneath.Plus the language is oddly stilted.It ends with the words, " 'How happy we are!', they said in their dreams", which is half an inch shy of hokey and a sneeze away from outright saccharine.I don't think I'm conveying the book's inability to tell its story convincingly to you.Nevertheless, I strongly urge you to flip through this story long before you decide to buy it.Long before.

Which is not to say that the pictures don't almost make up for its narrative flaws.Illustrator Susan Jeffers has a Caldecott Honor Award under her belt and it shows.From Lucy's painted toenails and felt hat spotted bathrobe to the image of the three new friends happily munching on McDuff's shortbread biscuits at the tale's end, this book seeks to enchant.Seeks and, were it not for the words, would succeed.I loved the fabulous 40s-50s decor.I liked the scared little McDuff turning into a confident happy pup in a loving home.I liked how realistic these images were and how original the setting became.Obviously if Rosemary Wells had illustrated this tale herself she would've done it in an entirely different way.It's just her own bloody good luck that she found herself paired with such a supremely talented artist.

So it's entirely up to you."McDuff Moves In" has much in its favor and much against it as well.Personally, I suggest that if you are looking for a tale of a cute little white Scottie finding a home then you should seek out "Widget" by Lyn Rossiter McFarland forthwith.If, however, you're a fan of the period picture book genre and you like Susan Jeffers's work, "McDuff" may be a great choice for you and yours.It is not Rosemary Wells's best writing and the story is pretty touch n' go.Still, there are things to recommend it.Definitely give it a trial run.

Fantastic!
I own this book, as well as others in the series. They are just great! My mom owns a Westie, perfectly named Duffy(he got the name before we new about the books), and the illustrator captures the essence of the Westie. Every picture is perfectly drawn to show the character of a Westie. I love the author as well. I have been a teacher and have always read Ms. Wells' books to my students and the McDuff series is loved by all. McDuff moves in is just a fun book to read and I recommend it to all ages.

Ashleigh LOVED this Rosemary Wells book!
I am a 2nd grader.My name is Ashleigh.I have been reading books by Rosemary Wells.My favorite book is McDUFF MOVES IN.I like this book because it makes me feel happy when McDuff finds a home.

Ashleigh LOVED this Rosemary Wells book!
I am a 2nd grader at Anna Merritt Elementary School.My name is Ashleigh.I have been reading books by Rosemary Wells.My favorite book is McDUFF MOVES IN because it makes me feel happy when McDuff finds a home. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Delicous Read
This is a book filled with delicious smells, wonderful sound and color images. A good cuddle together and read to me book. An excellent book to stimulate creative writing and to explore the senses through. A book to enjoy over and over again! ... Read more

Book Description

Ruby is busy sending out party invitations, so Max decides he'llwrite a letter too, asking for a special present.But when the postman deliversthe letter to Grandma, she thinks Max is just saying hello. So Max sends anotherletter. It soon becomes clear to Grandma that Max is asking for somethingspecial. The only question is what? With eight clever flaps to lift, thisheartwarming and interactive picture book gives Rosemary Wells fans even morereasons to love Max and Ruby, who are now starring in their own Nickelodeontelevision show. ... Read more

Book Description

It's tough being the middle mouse. No one's paying any attention to Nora, so she decides to do something her family can't ignore: make noise. Nora slams windows, bangs doors, and upsets furniture, to no avail. It's not until she crashes out the door--and the house goes strangely silent--that her family realizes: a noisy Nora is much better than no Nora at all.

"A wonderful story." --Booklist

Awards:
( An ALA Notable Book
( A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year ... Read more

Reviews (9)

I couldn't wait to buy this!
This was my favorite book as a small child, and I couldn't wait to buy it for my own children. The rhymes make it fun to read, and children really identify with Nora's predicament. The ending is perfect, too.

Hilarious!
This was one of my favorite books growing up. The rhymes are particularly appealing for young readers. I can still recite certain lines: "'I am leaving!' shouted Nora, 'And I am never coming back!' But no one heard anything except a tra la la from Jack." Wonderful stuff. And contrary to what the dad-to-be wrote, the message of this book is heartwarming. You don't have to be a middle child to appreciate Nora's predicament.

I am shocked! Shocked!
I will be a new father in a few days, and my wife had a copy of this book in the baby's room. I could not believe what this book seemed to be condoning: the acting out of an unattended to child. As the nature of Nora's actions escalated, I was fully expecting her to torch the house as a coup de grace.
In any case, I will not be reading this to my dear (but impressionable) daughter!

Noisy Nora by Rosemary Wells
Noisy Nora is just as much fun to read today as it was when it first came out. I have been teaching second grade forever, and at one time, many years ago, a fellow teacher and myself wore out a filmstrip of Noisy Nora. Our students saw it over and over again. Recently, we used it as the take home book in a Book Bag program. Today's students love it as much as those almost 30 years ago!

Wonderful to read or give...
I read this a million and three times to my own two (and now grown) children and now have such fun giving it as a gift. This is the most fun to read over and over again, it's just tough to get tired of. ... 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

Reviews (3)

Magical fable of a mom overcoming bullies
I adore this book - Wells' usual humor and art full of colorful details is part of that. I've thought of it as great for moms - single moms too, BTW - Hazel's mom just knows when she needs help and rescues her from bad times. But I realize as I review this book that the text raises scary topics too - Hazel goes off by herself to the bakery [what age is Hazel and where does SHE live! that happens in another Wells' fav of mine, Bunny Cakes - they're badgers, maybe badgers are more trusting than human moms!] Then more scary stuff - Hazel gets lost and kids in the park are mean to her. It might be reassuring to all readers, parents and kids, that Hazel's mom miraculously heals all, but I guess this is best to read when you want to talk about something scary that has happened or is worrying your child - because if she/he wasn't already scared of kids being mean, this book would do it! The message of a strong, protective mom applies best when there are difficult people with whom your child needs help, because this only works out idyllically for Hazel and her mom, not with the kids made to fix Hazel's doll Eleanor. I counsel parents-to-be who are worried their child will someday be teased [because they're adopted or conceived with donor sperm, the topic of my book!] and this might help someone laughingly reflect on the power of love to make things all work out right - with the help of a ladyfinger or two!

A new favorite
My three-year-old daughter was immediately drawn into this wonderful story of a Mom who comes to the rescue. I still have days when I wish my mom could rescue me, so I enjoyed this tale, too. And the artwork is pure delight!

A great book for children and parents to read together!
Hazel's Amazing Mother is a wonderful book, full of excitement and adventure. Hazel is her mother's biggest fan -- and for good reason! Her mother comes to the rescue in a very unusual way! Read it with someone you love ... Read more

Reviews (7)

McDuff a Family Favorite
My one-year-old daughter loves McDuff. The illustrations are what really make this book stand out. They convey a sense of humor that even adults can enjoy - we love when McDuff gives the baby squinty looks! We read every night but McDuff and the Baby is the only book that she will sit all the way through - smiling at every page. We look forward to more McDuff books!

A perfect little book, about a perfect little dog!
I loved this book! I bought it for my niece because I have aWestie. The illustrations compliment the story extremely well. Youcan really tell that the writer and illustrator both own Westies! I recommend this book to anyone who loves dogs, especially little McDuffs.

Nicole, Anthony B., Megan, and Tilly LOVED this book!
We have been reading a lot of books by Rosemary Wells and McDUFF AND THE BABY is our favorite book. Nicole liked the part when McDuff met the baby because it made her feel happy. Anthony B. liked the part when McDuff growled at the baby and the baby was scared. Megan liked the part when McDuff said WOOF at the baby and the baby WOOFED back. She was happy that McDuff had someone to play with. Tilly's favorite part was when McDuff squinted his eyes at the baby and the baby laughed.

My son fell in love with McDuff!
I began reading McDuff and the Baby to my son when he was 4 days old and he is now 13 months and it is still his hands-down favorite. We have purchased all of the McDuff books and the character has captured all of our hearts. I strongly recommend this book and the others in the series to all parents who want their children to love reading!

For West Highland White Terrier Lovers everywhere!!!
What a great little book, when my baby nephew came down to visit us this past Thanksgiving he loved playing with our sweet West highland terriers, and now when ever his daddy reads him this book he will point to the artfully crafted pictures and Say "Nellie, Nellie!!!", which is the name of one of my dogs he really took to. It's a great book, and I hope you enjoy it. ... Read more

Book Description

Max's old blue overalls are disgusting, and Ruby has exactly enough money to buy him a new pair of pants. But what Max really wants is a ferocious, green dragon shirt. When the two get separated in the clothing store, the antics begin. Children will cheer as Max unwittingly outwits his bossy, older sister once again.

"Another gleeful romp with a pair of unforgettable hares."--Publishers Weekly

Awards:
( An ALA Notable Book
( A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year ... Read more

Reviews (8)

A book....
...that I don't get tired of reading to my 4 year old daughter at bedtime. It's a fun, cute book and I just love Max and Ruby.

Bunny with a one-track mind
Our kids love Max -- that he can stay focused on his own goal, regardless of the noise around him. This book is their favorite Max book.

Another winner with Max and Ruby!
I have adored the "Max" series by Rosemary Wells for quite sometime, as my three children absolutely loved all the Max books when they were younger. Ms. Wells manages to capture really great nuances on the faces of both Max and his sister Ruby, as well as presenting the most humorous situations for Max and Ruby.

Max wants nothing but a dragon shirt and Ruby is insisting on buying him a much-needed pair of pants, per the instructions of their mother. Max does not give up on his beloved dragon shirt and reminds Ruby every chance he gets. Ruby gets sidetracked in the store trying on dresses and Max manages to wander in the store after dozing off and not finding Ruby in the dressing room. Max finds his coveted dragon shirt, puts it on and is "found" by two policemen in the store. Well, now the dragon shirt is covered with yummy ice cream and Ruby has no choice but to purchase the shirt for Max!

The illustrations and use of color will delight any youngster, as will the antics of Ruby and Max! I love their facial expressions and even after all of these years, I still love reading these books! This was one series of book that neither I, nor my children, ever tired of reading. I find the Max and Ruby books just really classic books! My children would read them over and over again and would find them first with every library visit!

Absolutely pure delight!!!

Great children's book with a few minor flaws...
Rosemary Wells is a gifted writer and illustrator. The story is engaging and the illustrations add to the personality of the characters. With that said, there are a couple of things that prevent me from giving this book a perfect review. The first thing is the stereotype of the younger sister. Must all younger sisters be shallow, mall dwelling half-wits? The second thing is the part of the story where Max gets lost in the store. This may frighten younger readers.

Max Prevails Again!
Another winner in Rosemary Wells' slyly hilarious "Max" series, this time Max and his older sister Ruby have just $5 to replace his "disgusting" pants. Max has his eyes set on a "dragon shirt," but Ruby has to get those pants.

Their ensuing misadventures in a department store take the bunny pair from "Large Appliances" to "Boy's Sportswear" (a caution: Max is momentarily lost in the store, this may or may not be frightening to your little one). With big colorful illustrations by Wells and a happy ending (well, for Max!), this is a fun story of siblings on the loose. 22 pages, with watercolor/pen and ink pictures on each page. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A Beautiful Book
This book is charming and exquisitely illustrated. Elements of origami and Japanese printmaking enrich it visually, while the story is beautifully simple and affecting. It is one of my three-year old daughter's favorites, and my personal favorite among her many books. The story and pictures can be used as a starting point to explore the ideas of separation, travel, gift-giving, the seasons in nature, bird migration, and they even show the reader how to make paper cranes! It is superb.

A cultural and artistic look at Japan
I am an American citizen who has been living in Japan for the past 18 months and I was delighted when a friend sent this book to my daughter for her 4th birthday. I have been a fan of Rosemary Wells for years and this book did not disappoint me. Wells has created a delightful visual experience for the young reader through the use of traditional Japanese washi papers combined with her own bright and whimsical watercolors. Wells has also managed to show the special relationship that exists between a child and their grandparents and how traditions are passed down through generations. (In this case, Yoko's grandfather teaches her to fold paper cranes.) My own daughter is thousands of miles away from her grandparents in the United States, and I think that this book has shown her that love can cross all those miles.
As a parent and preschool teacher, I would recommend this book as a teaching tool about Japanese culture -- Wells has even included folding instructions for the paper crane. What a wonderful literacy link activity!

Disgraceful!
This entire book has been entirely tainted by the disgraceful and completely insensitive endpapers! What gives with the author's simplified use of design motifs, such as the use of red stars indicating the former Soviet Union and BOWLS OF RICE for China...? Way to go, Ms. Wells.... lumping thousands of years of rich and wonderful history and culture into a bowl of rice. There is nothing to savor about this insensitivity and thoughtlessness and teaching children that diversity is nothing more than a cup of coffee or a pine tree.

Offers A Look Into Japanese Culture For Kids!
This is a sweet story for kids -- especially if they are separated from their grandparents by distance. The paper cranes become symbols of family and cultural connections. Also, the richly colored illustrations and their elegant borders are amazing.

This is a great book for kids, adults, and origami lovers! ... Read more

Amazon.com

On the first day of school, Emily's teacher, Miss Cribbage, tells the class that they will make a new number friend every day for the first 100 days of school. Everyone will have a number book in which to write numerical discoveries and musings. Eager Emily dives right into the project. On the second day of school, Miss Cribbage teaches a song called "Tea for Two." On day three, Emily writes about her school bus, No. 3. In square dancing, Emily learns that there are four corners to a dancing square. She picks five different vegetables from her garden for her father to use in his tomato-zucchini-pepper-carrot-eggplant soup. From day one to day 100, Emily and her classmates expand their creative and mathematical skills as they immerse themselves in the exciting early days of school.

Rosemary Wells, beloved author and illustrator of dozens of picture books, and creator of the mischievous Max character (Max's First Word, Max's Chocolate Chicken, and others), has accomplished a remarkable feat: finding 100 days' worth of entertaining "number friends." The 100th day of school can be an important milestone--and a great learning tool! Emily is an adorable Wellsian bunny, complete with pudgy cheeks and sweet little jumpers and overalls. For more excellent 100-day picture books, try Margery Cuyler's 100th Day Worries and Joseph Slate's Miss Bindergarten Celebrates the 100th Day of Kindergarten. (Ages 4 to 8) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Check this out
Darling book. It can also can be purchased as part of a set called "Emily & Friends Playtime Learning Box". The box includes the softcover book, 100 adorable & creative activity cards, a growth chart, ruler, playing cards, & 100 stickers to put on a poster to mark a child's first 100 days of school. All at a good price - check it out!!!

Emily's First 100 Days of School is a delightful book.
In this very charming book, Emily starts school and her teacher, Miss Cribbage, has them write a number down in their number books for each of the first 100 days of school. The pages are bright and colorful and the numbers are easy for small children to read. Each number has a lesson to be learned from it. Ms. Wells' characters are as always cute and adoreable. My twin four year girls absolutely loved this book. It is an excellent book for teaching numbers from 1 to 100. I would recommend it to anyone.

Another winner by Rosemary Wells--just delightful!
This book is really special! Emily counts off the first 100 days of school by talking about each and every number and matching it up with something to do with that day--her sister Eloise learning to play Seventy Six Trombones, her class learning about the nine planets, the prizewinning pumpkin at the fair weighing 33 pounds, and so on! The book is oversized, and filled with great Wells pictures. In the short piece of info given with each number, we get to know Emily's family and the joys and sorrows of her first year of school. We've read this book over and over. It's great for a child just starting to get excited about numbers, as they can look up their favorite ones to see what that number has associated with it. It would also be a great book for a child starting school. If you love Rosemary Wells, as I do, you knew you would like this book, but even I was impressed with how special it is!

Emily's 100 days
Emily is so excited to go to Kindergarten. Her teacher helps the children to count off the first 100 days of school, and every day has a number.

Each page has from 1 - 4 days of school illustrated on it. Each numbered day is significant, either on a historical, cultural or kindergarten level.

Future and current kindergartners and their parents will be charmed by this book.

My only reservation about it is that it is 58 pages long. This is not a book that you could read in one sitting with your average 5 or 6 year-old. My recommendation would be to do it in small chunks - once a week or once a month - throughout the beginning of the school year.

It has wonderful ideas of how to celebrate and enjoy the school year in small ways, including the traditions of many cultures. Not only is it a great way to count, but also a way to explore cultural diversity.

Any fan of Rosemary Wells will be well satisfied with this book.

If you are looking for a book that you can read in one sitting with your child, try Miss Bindergarten Celebrates the 100th Day by Joseph Slate. This book is actually an alphabet book in which each student's name starts with a different letter, and there is a sentence telling what each is bringing to celebrate the 100th day. ... Read more

Book Description

This touch-and-feel book starring the beloved Westie is packed with tactile fun for tots. McDuff has soft white fur, a red leather collar, and a knobbly bone to chew! He also has a squeaky toy raccoon, a cozy bed, and cuddly friends! Toddlers will be tickled to discover, pet, listen to, and look at the unique elements that make up McDuff's world. ... Read more