 | 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. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Madeline
- By Ludwig Bemelmans
- Genre: Family Life
Common Sense Media says
Rhyming classic is a sure winner with kids.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that the heroine demonstrates courage, and her teacher and schoolmates show concern and compassion. The brisk rhyme moves the story along, and the illustrations capture children's interest.
What's the story?
Twelve boarding school girls live in an old house covered with vines, and they walk in two straight lines wherever they go with their teacher, Miss Clavel. Madeline, the smallest, is not afraid of lions or mice. Then their routine is interrupted by a late-night rush to the hospital -- Madeline has to have her appendix out! After the operation, Miss Clavel, brings the girls to visit. Madeline has many gifts and flowers - -but likes her scar best of all. The story ends with the other girls crying, "Boohoo, we want to have our appendix out, too!"
Is it any good?
Children take to MADELINE instantly, perhaps because they love the routine of the 12 girls forming two straight lines while walking, eating, and sleeping. But before that predictability gets boring, here is Madeline, who is small yet brave, and loves winter. But this indomitable spirit is reduced to tears one night -- something must be wrong. Ludwig Bemelmans exactly captures the mix of concern and envy children feel about another sick child who gets attention.
Although few kids attend boarding schools or know why Miss Clavel wears a veil, they understand Madeline's spunk and courage. Bemelmans' illustrations match his narrative, alternating from quick cartoonlike sketches to lavish panoramas of architectural landmarks. Both adults and children like Bemelmans art: It's sophisticated, yet full of energy and detail. Mad About Madeline: The Complete Tales contains all the stories in the series.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about Paris. Parents can point out landmarks in the illustrations and seek out other books or films set in Paris. Ask kids to identify what they think are local landmarks.
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AGE
Great for little kids!
Okay, the books and the movies delighted me so much when I was 5 and 6 years old! Of course, I don't think they're that great now, but back then I loved Madeline! The books and the movies are very educational. Kids will learn some French like, "Au revoir!" and "Bonjour!" I learned those words at age 5 or 6 and I knew what they meant. Plus, Madeline has great manners and she can teach kids how to be polite and respectful. The books and the shows aren't annoying like Dora or The Wiggles. The shows and the books have great role models and positive messages! Parent's, these books and shows are a great pick for your child. I don't think kids that are older than 6 will be too thrilled with the books or the shows.
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AGE
Wonderful classic for all ages! At the end, though, all of the other girls want their appendixes out so they can get all the toys like Madeline...
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AGE
My daughter aged four loved the book and has watched the movie three times this week. She likes the fact that Madeline is not afraid.
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AGE
A classic for even the little ones.
My 2 year old loves this book and insists that I read it over and over again every day. I love it too so I'm happy to oblige.
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AGE
A book, timeless and transending
Seeing this book again, after So many years........
well, it was like a part of me from long ago, re-ignited with memory's of my childhood.
Thank you for such a Special book.
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AGE
Icried! Ilaughed
I think it is important to care yourself or hisself because you can live safley at the world!!
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| Author: | Ludwig Bemelmans |
| Illustrator: | Ludwig Bemelmans |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Family Life |
| Publisher: | Penguin Group |
| Publication date: | February 24, 1977 |
| Number of pages: | 44 |
| Paperback price: | $16.99 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 4 - 7 |
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