From: MalibuInc at aol.com <MalibuInc>
Date: Wed, 4 Aug 1999 12:50:01 EDT

Linnea,

The version of "No Kiss For Mother" I read was in the Boston Public Library. We studied the book in a children's literature class taught by Jack Gantos, who wrote the Rotten Ralph books. I took Jack's class in 1990. It is very possible this copy was an old edition. I think the book was out of print for some time and then reprinted. In this politically correct environment it wouldn't be surprising if the image was altered.

I remember wondering why Unger put a Nazi symbol in the story, and debating if it was an appropriate image for children. We even discussed the image in class. Once I understood Unger's intent I had nothing but admiration for him. I thought it was an incredible statement for a children's book.

Going back to the story I related in my earlier post about the Americans stealing his parent's wine, it is as you said, "No one is entirely good or bad."

Preston McClear Malibu Books For Children
Received on Wed 04 Aug 1999 11:50:01 AM CDT