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Parents' Guide to

Officer Buckle and Gloria

By Esther Ehrlich, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 4+

Teaches gentle lessons about safety and teamwork.

Book Peggy Rathman Humor 1995
Officer Buckle and Gloria Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

Community Reviews

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age 2+

Based on 2 parent reviews

RecessGymClass2
RecessGymClass2 Adult
December 11, 2016
age 2+

Great book for kids to learn about safety and friendship.

This is a really good book. It teaches kids about safety lessons, but also friendship lessons. So it is recommended for all children. Gloria is a cute and funny dog. I read this while babysitting kids. They love it. I love it too, and i'm in my late 30s.
AlphaZK93
AlphaZK93 Adult
January 18, 2011
age 2+

This book made me stop standing on swivel chairs for fun. Seriously. It did.

Great children's book. To this day, I think about this book when I see people stand on swivel chairs.
See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

The students at Napville School snooze through Officer Buckle's safety speeches until his new police dog, Gloria, joins the act. Gloria's acting talents suddenly make Officer Buckle the talk of the town. This zany book, illustrated in vibrant color, tickles funny bones while teaching gentle lessons about safety and teamwork.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (2 ):
Kids say (4 ):

This rollicking, sweet story will have young kids howling with laughter, and has enough mischief to keep little ones engaged, common sense to reassure parents, and good humor for everyone.

The pages are jam-packed with neon-bright pictures that add zip to an already zippy story. Whether she's hurling herself in the air or pretending to be electrocuted, nowhere will you find a dog with more expression than Gloria! The simple text is jazzed up with hand-written safety tips and notes that kids love to pore over. This book will have kids hoping that Officer Buckle and Gloria will show up for a safety speech at their school.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the safety lessons in the book. They also can talk about teamwork. Why were Officer Buckle's feelings hurt? Why did Gloria feel badly? Are they better working together or apart?

Book Details

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