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Madeline and the Bad Hat
- By Ludwig Bemelmans
- Genre: Picture Book
Common Sense Media says
A little heavy-handed, but still a charming book.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this lesson in decent behavior may not entertain young readers. But the art is rich with detail and excitement, and the verse is witty.
What's the story?
The Spanish ambassador moves in next door, and Madeline soon discovers that Pepito, his son, is a bad boy. Gradually, Pepito's pranks escalate, but despite the intensity of his teasing behavior, Pepito eventually learns his lesson. Ludwig Bemelmans's illustrations of Paris life, particularly a market scene, are as charming as ever.
Is it any good?
To make the point that Pepito is a bad hat, Bemelmans goes overboard, progressing from standard mischief to downright cruelty. The most offensive verse revolves around Pepito's creation: a guillotine. Pepito, the author writes, "was unmoved by the last look / the frightened chickens gave the cook."
Despite the intensity of Pepito's bad behavior, the message is clear: He has to change if he wants Madeline and the other girls to play with him. Children will recognize all of Pepito's attempts to make friends, including showing off, and the illustration of the changed Pepito and the girls setting free birds, butterflies, and other animals is heartwarming.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about ways to go about making new friends. Do you change your behavior to impress them or be more like them? Or is it better to just be yourself?
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AGE
Adored this when I was younger...
I loved this book when I was little. Actually, I loved the video even more... I still listen to some of the songs from it these days. :S
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AGE
Not for sensitive children or for children you don't wish to desensitize
I love the Madeline books as do my daughters but I was appalled at this one. We skipped reading it because I think a book for young children shouldn't show a little boy cutting off chicken's heads to be mean. I would not read it to young children. The others in the series are excellent, however
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AGE
hate it nearing the end when he learns his lesson how can he see with one eye and or talk to madeline through the bandages
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| Author: | Ludwig Bemelmans |
| Illustrator: | Ludwig Bemelmans |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Picture Book |
| Publisher: | Penguin Group |
| Publication date: | March 31, 1957 |
| Number of pages: | 64 |
| Paperback price: | $6.99 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 4 - 7 |
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