Common Sense Note
This story takes place in Paris. 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.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Jennifer Gennari
Children take to MADELINE instantly, and perhaps it is because they love the routine of the twelve girls forming two straight lines while walking, eating, and sleeping.
But before that predictability gets boring, voila!--here is Madeline! She's small yet brave, and loves winter. But this indomitable spirit is reduced to tears one night--something must be wrong. When readers find out it's her appendix, Bemelmans exactly captures the mix of concern and envy children feel about another sick child who gets attention.
Told in rhyme, the story of Madeline is a sure winner with kids. Despite the fact that few children attend boarding schools or know why Miss Clavel wears a veil, they understand Madeline's spunk and courage. They want the predictability of life spiced up with a little Madeline-style adventure.
Bemelmans's illustrations match his narrative, alternating from quick cartoonlike sketches to lavish panoramas of architectural landmarks. Both adults and children will 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.
Plot Summary:
Twelve girls live in an old house covered with vines, and they walk in two straight lines wherever they go. 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!"
Related Books:
Other Books in this series
Madeline's Christmas
Madeline and the Gypsies
Madeline in London
Madeline and the Bad Hat
Madeline's Rescue
Mad About Madeline
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