Book Details
Written by
Illustrated by
Genre
More details
See more book reviews

Harriet, You'll Drive Me Wild! (by Mem Fox)

common sense media says

Simple story isn't quite right for target audience.

parents & educators say
See 2 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this simple story and soft illustrations may draw young children in, but the text won't hold them.

Violence & scariness: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Harriet, You'll Drive Me Wild!

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about emotions -- specifically, anger and control. Is it ever OK to yell? If so, in what situation(s)? Can you think of better ways to express anger or disapproval?

What's the story?

What's the story?
Harriet drives her mother crazy with her pesky antics in this funny book.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
One has to wonder who this book is intended for -- a toddler who gets into everything and is occasionally yelled at, or a toddler's mother who, at times, loses patience and yells? The book doesn't fit either group: The toddler won't understand the subtle concepts involving accidents, impatience, and losing one's temper, and a mother might feel guilty about being upset with her kids.

Although the text is appropriate for first-graders who read on their own, the subject matter is too babyish for them; kids like to read about kids their own age or 1 to 2 years older. On a positive note, both Harriet's and her mother's faces show a wide array of emotions in Marla Frazee's realistic illustrations. Anger, frustration, and final loss of control are wonderfully drawn on the bug-eyed mom, and it's obvious Harriet is truly sorry for her spills.

Book themes & details

Book Details
Author: Mem Fox
Illustrator: Marla Frazee
Publisher: Harcourt Brace
Publication date: January 1, 2000
Number of pages: 30
Paperback price: $6.00
This review was written by Jennifer Gennari
 
 

Review It

 

Review Harriet, You'll Drive Me Wild!

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

Most useful reviews by all members

wisemom
adult
 
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (3) | had useful details (4) | read my mind (3)
the frog whisperer
kid, 10 years old
6
 
SPAZZES.
I think mem fox rocks and this book is no exception, but I think it's...weird when the mom SPAZZES OUT.
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (2) | had useful details (2) | read my mind (2)

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you read Harriet, You'll Drive Me Wild!?

Won't miss it
On the fence
No way

Already read it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Browse more books
About our rating system
ON: Content is 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
Our child development rating guidelines