Max's First Word

 Review

Common Sense Media says

Kids will enjoy the siblings' relationship.
greenON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.
yellowPAUSE: Know your child; some content
may not be right for some kids.
redOFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age.
not for kidsNOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age.

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Quality
 
Sometimes media can be age appropriate but a real waste of time. Our star rating assesses the media's overall quality.

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Parents say

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Kids say

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this book expresses the complex relationship between siblings. Kids love it when the baby gets the last word.


What's the story?

Ruby loves her baby-bunny brother, Max, and wants to teach him a few words. Parents and children will instantly recognize the realism of the interplay between them--bossiness, stubbornness, and exasperation--and will love the surprise ending.


Is it any good?

 

The loving yet bossy Ruby is determined to teach Max a few words, and Rosemary Wells has perfectly captured their relationship. "Back in your chair, Max," Ruby says, after Max breaks an egg she has given him. Ruby wants to be in charge, but in the end Max gets the final word.

The simple tale not only introduces new words to young readers but also makes them feel smart. Children will quickly learn to read this board book and delight in knowing the words baby Max doesn't say.


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What families can talk about

Families can talk about Ruby's efforts to teach her younger brother. How is she a good teacher?


This review was written by Jennifer Gennari

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This review was written by Jennifer Gennari
Author:Rosemary Wells
Illustrator:Rosemary Wells
Book type:Fiction
Genre:Picture Book
Publisher:Penguin Group
Publication date:January 1, 1979
Number of pages:12
Hardcover price:$5.99
Publisher's recommended age(s):2 - 4

This review was written by Jennifer Gennari
 

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About our rating system
ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids.
OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age.
Learning ratings
BEST: Really engaging, great learning approach.
GOOD: Pretty engaging, good learning approach.
FAIR: Somewhat engaging, OK learning approach.
NOT FOR LEARNING: Not recommended for learning.

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