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Madeline and the Gypsies

(1939, Fiction - Picture Book, Written by Ludwig Bemelmans, Illustrated by Ludwig Bemelmans)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 0, age appropriate for kids over 4; suggested age 4.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    Not the best in the series, but still a favorite.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 4 and Up

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    The gypsies are stereotyped. Madeline needs help getting off the Ferris wheel, but Pepito just climbs down.

  • Violence & scariness:

    The Gypsy Mama sews the children into a lion costume.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Madeline and the Gypsies

Parents need to know that while gypsy life seems fun, children may worry about the characters' safety. The art conveys the excitement of the circus. However, the story and verse are not Bemelmans's best.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the allure of the circus. What would it be like to travel and work with the lions, horses, and elephants? Would you miss having a permanent home?
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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Adult Reviewer
    Anonymous
    I rate this title on for age 17 and give it 2.0

  2. Adult Reviewer
    Anonymous
    I rate this title on for age 11 and give it 0.0

  3. Adult Reviewer
    Anonymous
    I rate this title on for age 11 and give it 0.0

  4. Adult Reviewer
    Anonymous
    I rate this title on for age 11 and give it 0.0

  5. Adult Reviewer
    Anonymous
    I rate this title on for age 11 and give it 0.0

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