The Seven Silly Eaters
Common Sense Note
Lively verse and a fun dilemma make an entertaining read. The illustrations are friendly, and create their own humorous story.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Peter Lewis
Hoberman's verse is both merry and touching: "They put the cake upon a dish / And lit the candles. 'Make a wish,' / The children cried, 'before you blow!' / And Mrs. Peters did just so. / And what is more, her wish came true / As birthday wishes always do."
Frazee's big-hearted artwork is a perfect complement to this poem. The Peters' home with its cultivated anarchy has a host of huggable characters and a feast of delicious details that make children want to take another look.
Kids quickly identify with one or another of the silly eaters. "I like Jack because he likes applesauce and has the high bunk," said one 4-year-old. As the number of food demands begins to overwhelm Mrs. Peters, she races furiously to satisfy her children's desires; what glows from the page is a mother's love.
Younger readers may also enjoy The Bear Under the Stairs, by Helen Cooper, and older readers might like The Rattle Bag, a poetry collection edited by Ted Hughes and Seamus Heaney.
Plot Summary:
The seven Peters kids each eat only one, different food! This eventually drives even accommodating Mrs. Peters batty. But the kids rally to mom's relief with a special birthday cake that the whole family can enjoy. Hoberman's verse sings, and Frazee's artwork conveys the cheerful chaos of a big, happy family home.
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