From: Jean Hildreth <jhildreth>
Date: Wed, 09 Nov 2005 13:40:36 -0600

I agree heartily with so many of the wonderful books already mentioned; in particular, Sandra Boynton's board collection was pure delight to discover with my children. But Not the Hippopotamus was practically worn thin due to very frequent and enthusiastic use! There are now book/CD combinations such as Philadelphia Chickens and Rhinoceros Tap to allow the very natural introduction of music to her goofy, often-wry lyrics.

Here is a resounding second to the inclusion of Rosemary Wells' great Max and Ruby series as well as her other solo books: Don't Spill It Again, James (OP but worth seeking!!), Morris' Disappearing Bag, and Noisy Nora are three which come to mind as always delightfully wacky fun for both reader and baby.

I've heard no mention yet of the marvelous writing and illustrations of Clyde and Wendy Watson. Many of their titles appear to be OP, which is a shame; maybe if enough of us request them, they'll reprint. These are treasures to seek in used bookstores in the meantime: Catch Me and Kiss Me and Say It Again (a new and marvelous collection of nursery rhymes which will quickly lodge in your memory for recall even when the book isn't at hand) and Father Fox's Pennyrhymes (a similar and equally fresh collection of rhymes) are two to get you hooked!

One last recommendation, perhaps more for the toddlers: Shirley Hughes' Alfie and Annie Rose tales, whose storylines and sweet illustrations ring true to the daily details of little lives, are a pleasure to share and a frequent request of those lucky enough to "meet" Alfie and his cherubic little sister. Thanks for the opportunity to share thoughts on one of life's great and enduring pleasures: curling up with a good book and a small child.


Jean Hildreth Luxemburg-Casco Middle School Casco, WI
Received on Wed 09 Nov 2005 01:40:36 PM CST