I have to tell you, honestly, that I wasn't sure I was going to review Scout
I opened the package which contained Scout
Scout
The story is cute enough but it's the pictures that get me. All of the animals look very harsh in my opinion. Their sharp edges leave more to be desired. These pets, created by artist Gordon McMillan, do not make me want to cuddle them. I like the look of animals who look like they want to be cuddled. Nevertheless, the book remained on our coffee table where it remained the most requested re-read in the stack (until I moved it). When my mother came over to visit, apparently she was asked to read it to the kids. It was notable enough in her mind to mention that they had kept asking her to read Scout
But the children love it! They really, really love it! So here you have it. Mark this as the very first review of a book that I dislike but my children love. I'll post this for their sake. (HA!) And if this book really does become a Caldecott winner, I'll just eat my words. (Maybe.)
Seriously though, thanks to Sleeping Bear Press for shooting a copy of this one our way. My children thank you. Me? Well, perhaps not so much, but I'll live.
P.S. The more I look at Scout's eyes, the more I see a little bit of cuteness.
10 comments:
I think we've had at least one book like that...I didn't care for it, but the kids did...though not to the extent of your kids and Scout. :)
chuckle--that's funny! We have several books around here that my husband and I try to hide because we don't love them and the kids *always* find them! :)
It's a very loving mommy who will keep rereading a book that she does not like!! ;)
First (that they like that you don't) but not LAST, let me assure you -- ha!!
Picture books are so subjective, because I saw the cover and thought it was super-cute. With picture books, I often find that my son likes them when I am so-so on it.
The story sounds cute and original. I'm glad you reviewed it!
I had to smile both at your review and Jennifer's comment. Yes, it definitely won't be the last time there will be a difference of opinion!
The eyes are kind of cute.
You asked about Cheddar's. It's a restaurant, but I'm hard pressed to describe what kind. They describe themselves as a "casual cafe." I like their ribs and several of their appetizers (and we don't usually get appetizers). In fact, I was thinking of going in there one day just to get their appetizer nachos for lunch.
Artwork is a funny thing. My first reaction to Mo Willems' "Pigeon" books was that the art was hokey and primitive. But it grew on me, and I found myself loving all the emotional variety conveyed by the dark pencil lines.
Go figure.
See, I liked the artwork because the eyes caught my attention right off!
I always find it interesting how simple drawings that bear little resemblance to their original objects are still recognized by very small children. The human brain is amazing.
Yeah, I have to admit, I kind of thought the picture there was pretty cute.
The angles on the dog are a bit off-putting, but when I think about some of the Scotties I've been around (or seen in movies) it kind of matches their personality! : )
I'm sure my little dog-loving boy would love it, too.
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