Mad About Madeline
Common Sense Note
Kids will love the energetic artwork and the spunky heroine of this adventurous tale.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Jennifer Gennari
Why, wonders Anna Quindlen in the introduction to this collection of tales about Madeline, do American children "who go to a day school, have never visited Paris or worn a uniform" love the little schoolgirl so much? The answer lies in her attitude. She is fearless and confident, traits young and old admire. We all wish we could say "Pooh, pooh!" to the tiger in the zoo.
Bemelmans skillfully places every adventure within a familiar routine. The girls leave the house at half past nine, and after some wild adventure, they are back at the table or tucked into bed. Children love to recite the beginning, "In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines ...," and the reassuring ending, "Thank the Lord you are well! And now go to sleep," said Miss Clavel."
A careful reader of Bemelmans will notice, however, that his rhyme and rhythm were often strained. The writing in the original story, "Madeline," is by far the best: It's briskly paced without any rough spots. In later stories, the rhyme is forced in a number of places, as in "Madeline and the Gypsies," where Miss Clavel says, "Here is a freshly laundered shirty / It's better to be clean than dirty."
Awkward rhymes are forgiven when you focus on Bemelmans's skill as an artist. His landscapes, with broad strokes and ornate details, capture the city so well. You can almost feel the rain in front of Notre Dame.
MAD ABOUT MADELINE, with its heavy size, is not suitable for story-time snuggling, but it is a must for collectors.
Plot Summary:
In brisk and bouncy verse, fearless Madeline has her appendix removed, falls into the Seine, and joins a circus. The stories vary in quality but will delight Madeline's fans. Bemelmans's illustrations are delightful. This edition includes original sketches, an essay by Bemelmans, and a fine introduction by former columnist Anna Quindlen.
Rate It!
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ViolenceDogs attack Pepito. |
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Social BehaviorThe gypsies are stereotyped. Pepito teases and is cruel to animals. |
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