 | 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. |
Marley Goes to School
- By John Grogan
- Genre: Picture Book
Common Sense Media says
Kids will giggle at silly dog tale; some confusing messages.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know the loyal Marley disobeys the rules because he wants to find his friend. When a teacher warns that a “wild animal” is on the loose in the school and asks if anyone has seen him, the students lie and disguise Marley. Adults chasing after Marley are surprisingly impatient and angry, though the ending is lighthearted.
What's the story?
When Cassie starts school, loyal family dog Marley escapes from the back yard and follows her to school -- and chaos ensues. Well-intentioned Marley just wants to find his best friend, but he can’t help but find trouble. Distracted by a tray of hot dogs in the cafeteria, a ball in gym class, and other temptations, he’s pursued by a host of angry teachers and school workers.
Is it any good?
Just like the kids in the book, most young readers will laugh at Marley’s misadventures and delight in his surprising presence in the school. Marley bounds from page to page, tongue hanging out, eagerly searching for his playmate. But the story is played for slapstick humor and nothing more: For all the “bad dog!” scolding you get the sense that Marley just might repeat the performance day after day.
The portrayal of adults is disappointing for this age group. Grown-ups overreact to the dog’s mischief and look downright mean as they try to catch Marley. But in the end, they quickly dismiss Marley’s misbehavior and cheer him. The inconsistency sends a confusing message.
Energetic and lively, but many of the adults look disconcertingly angry.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about Marley’s behavior. Is he a bad dog? Why or why not? Is his family helping him learn how to behave better?
Do you think this story could really happen? Why or why not?
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AGE
A great school story with a little mischief
Our two year old loves this book. We got it for him in August before he headed off to daycare for the school year and it really paints a fun portrait of school. Parents should know that Marley does get into some mischief but it is all good natured.
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| Author: | John Grogan |
| Illustrator: | Richard Cowdrey |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Picture Book |
| Publisher: | HarperCollins Children's Books |
| Publication date: | July 7, 2009 |
| Number of pages: | 40 |
| Hardcover price: | $17.99 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 4 - 8 |
| Read aloud: | 4 |
| Read alone: | 7 |
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