Citation:
Geisel, Theodor Suess. And to Think That I Saw it on Mulberry Street. New York: Vanguard Press Inc., 1964.
Summary:
A little boy, named Marco, is instructed by his father to look for something interesting on his way home from school. However, all Marco can see is a wagon pulled by a horse. He then begins imagining ways in which the wagon and horse could be more interesting, eventually turning them into a large parade with all sorts of people and animals. Marco keeps trying to come up with something better than what he previously added until he makes it home terribly excited. However, he does not tell his father any of his imaginations.
My Impressions:
This book by Dr. Seuss is an excellent example of a child's imagination, which can turn the mundane into something extraordinary without the confines imposed by the conciousness of how unrealistic they are. While some of the words used in the book, such as "charioteer," or "Rajah," or "Aldermen" might not be as familiar to children of today as they were to children in 1937 when the book was first published, the story remains relevant to children of all generations who still have imaginations. In addition, the illustrations in the book, done by Dr. Suess as well, are characteristic of the story. The illustrations do not attempt to present objects as they truly appear, rather they are drawn in such a way that makes them appear like they belong in a child's imagination. On the whole, the book is expertly written and illustrated and will surely provide entertainment for children of the future.
Suggestions for the use of this book:
This book could of course be used in a storytime with other Dr. Seuss stories, but could also be used by parents, teachers, and librarians in order to foster and encourage the imagination of young children.
Reviews:
Random House Inc. "And to Think That I Saw It On Mulberry Street." Accessed January 30, 2011. http://www.seussville.com/books/book_detail.php?isbn=9780394944944
"As little Marco describes the horse and wagon he saw on Mulberry Street, they are transformed into an elephant and a band wagon with a retinue of police. 'A fresh, inspiring picture-story book with an appeal to the child's imagination.'"
Grahame, Kenneth. The Wind in the Willows. Cleveland: The World Publishing Company, 1966.
Summary:
This book by Kenneth Grahame, which was originally released in 1908, is the story of four animals who live along a river in England. The story begins when Mole decides that he is tired of his mundane life and therefore leaves his home for adventure. He makes his way to the river, where he meets Water Rat, who quickly introduces him to a life of leisure which includes boating and lavish picnics. During their time together, Mole is introduced to Badger who is an older animal that shuns socializing and formality. Badger also proves to be the unofficial leader and helper of many animals in the wild wood adjacent to the river. In addition, Mole is introduced to Mr. Toad who is the wealthiest animal along the river, and as such lives in a large residence called Toad Hall. Mr. Toad squanders much of his wealth by taking up one hobby after another with disasterous results. Throughout the story, Badger, Mole, and Water Rat must come to Mr. Toad's aid even though he selfishly takes them for granted. Ultimately, the animals regain Toad Hall, after it is taken over by weasels, and Mr. Toad changes his selfish and frivolous ways.
My Impressions:
This book is an excellent read, although for younger children it might be considered boring. The book is a classic, but it is not as commonly read as Dr. Seuss' books for instance. I believe that the book loses some appeal because it might be hard for children to relate to animals with which they are not familiar, such as moles or badgers. These are not animals which are common in every place. Also, given that the book is over a century old, and was written by a British author several of the terms will be unfamiliar to many children and even some adults. However, the themes of the book such as friendship, humility, and thinking of others remain classic in any age.
Suggestions for the use of this book:
This book, or portions of this book, could be use to demonstrate to children the consequences of being selfish, and how to be humble in their friendships with others. This could be done through the use of storytimes, but also by having children act out various parts of the book taking turns being different characters.
Reviews:
Williams, Pat. Review of The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame. Children's Literature.
Mole is content with his life. One day, as he is spring-cleaning, he comes out of his hole at Mole End. He begins to wander the English countryside. Every experience is new for Mole. Never had he taken a boat ride, been in the woods, or seen a river. More adventures await him when he meets Mr. Toad, Badger, and Water Rat. There are gypsies, jailbreaks, motorcars, and a weasel rebellion to make his life more exciting. The story is fast moving and should keep the interest of a child. Humorous, with some subtle lessons, this has been a childhood favorite for some time. Life in the country is peaceful and holds the prospect of an adventure as four animals friends set out on a journey. The talking animal protagonists are exceptional. Although they all have their individual foibles, they are likeable, individual, and real. The story depicts life in Britain during the turn of the twentieth century.
