Parents' Guide to

Kipper's Toybox

By Ann Marie Sammataro, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 2+

Engaging pictures work well with the simple story.

Book Mick Inkpen Picture Book 1992
Kipper's Toybox Poster Image

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What's the Story?

A hole in his toy box leads Kipper to the discovery that he has too many toys! Seven, eight, five--first there's too many and then there's too little--as the perplexed pup counts over and again. There's a surprise in store for Kipper and readers in this sweet tale accompanied by engaging illustrations.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

KIPPER'S TOYBOX is another entertaining installment chronicling the adventures of this amiable pup. Mick Inkpen imbues Kipper with plenty of character; parents and caregivers will smile wryly at Kipper's typically child-like actions, while kids identify with him. Inkpen understands kids, right down to the quirky objects that become a small child's treasures: an unmatched slipper, a novelty sock, and a tattered stuffed animal.

The full-color, whimsical illustrations are a perfect counterpart to the story, offering clues for observant readers. A wriggly pink tail or twitchy nose randomly pop up in the illustrations, making this tale more fun to read the second time around as readers pore over the pictures to locate the elusive mice. Situated against gleaming white backgrounds, the vivid pictures seem to leap off the pages.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about counting. Gather a pile of your favorite toys and count them. Try grouping them into different piles -- by color, type of toy, etc. -- and count how many you have of each kind.

Book Details

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