Parents' Guide to

Beatrix Potter: The Complete Tales

By Jennifer Gennari, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 2+

All of Beatrix Potter in one book, pre-K and K.

Book Beatrix Potter Animals 1969
Beatrix Potter: The Complete Tales Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Community Reviews

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age 4+

Based on 1 parent review

Susan Marlowe CPA
Susan Marlowe CPA Adult
July 11, 2011
age 4+

Victoriana at its best

I am a huge Beatrix Potter fan and this book is really an essential element on a child's bookshelf. I should note that the risk of being eaten is a popular theme in this series and some children may find this disturbing. However, it should not be too frightening to most children. In any case, parents can easily skip the tales their children may find disturbing.

This title has:

Great messages
Great role models
Too much violence
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

The tales of Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddle-Duck, Mr. Tod, and Pigling Bland are included in this complete volume. This deluxe edition also includes four previously unpublished works.

The unabridged tales are presented chronologically as Potter published them, with information about the inspiration behind the stories and the art.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (2 ):

Beatrix Potter's art is reproduced in fine detail with brilliant color. Potter enthusiasts will love the biographical information, and the favorite characters are included along with some not so familiar. However, heavy format and awkward size make this volume more an art collector's item than a book easily held for a bedtime read. Although some of the language is outdated, the stories are classic.

The illustrations are beautifully reproduced, showing Potter's skill in detail, humor, and expressiveness. Yet some children may not have the patience for the length of the stories and the obscure vocabulary. The language may be too foreign for young listeners, but it enhances older children's vocabulary. Potter's imaginative tales are full of explicit admonishments and morals.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the morals of the stories. What is the author trying to say? Do you agree?

Book Details

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