Bartholomew Bear: Five Toddler Tales

While I understand why some may be concerned about these books giving a poor example to young children, I can only testify to my personal experience. My 20 month old loves "Go to Bed". She herself struggles at bedtime, but it seems that she identifies with little Bartholomew's bedtime woes. She can state accurately that Ba is being 'naughty' when he tells George "nah" at bedtime. When he hides under the bed she says "uh oh" and at the end she tells Ba "goodnight". I don't think these books will give toddlers any ideas. They are too 'me' centered to be able to base their future actions on a book. This book is designed for toddler who already struggles and so, in my opinion, it is appropriate.

All of my children have enjoyed these books. They are simple to read, wonderful illustrations and deal with everyday topics. The illustrations inspired my toddlers to "read" the books themselves creating their own stories. My toddlers also learned some great immitations with tonal changes.

"There are days when Bartholomew is naughty, and other days when he is very, very good." And so begins a collection of tales of a little bear with a big name. His antics will seem familiar to anyone whose life has been touched by a toddler. Big gentle George tells Bartholomew to do something. Ba says "Nah!" and dawdles until the big voice of George commands: "EAT YOUR DINNER!" or "GO TO BED!" Bartholomew is not a bratty bear - he always complies in the end. Virginia Miller enhances her spare text with illustrations outlined in wide pencil and colored with soft, earth-toned markers. We started out reading the book On Your Potty! When we found this volume of five tales, my daughter's favorite became Be Gentle! And now she wants to hear the entire book every night! Why buy each title separately? Five-in-one is a "honey" of a deal. As George would say: "BUY THIS BOOK!"