Guido's Gondola

I love this book! It is easy for me to read and I like the story and it's rhyming. It's very kid friendly.

The most likable rat in Venice has to be Guido. Guido is the owner of a little gondola which everyone loves to ride. With his huge heart and expressive eyes, Guido thrives on making others happy. Yet, little bit by little bit, he begins listening to a few people's advice as they insist bigger is always better. Children will be delighted as they follow Guido because as each page is turned, they know before Guido does the trouble he's heading into. But, it appears that Guido only listens to those that say bigger is better. The beautiful, water-color illustrations capture Guido's zest and aim to please. Guido's Gondola is a wonderful, morality tale of tranquility and peace versus greed. Though the message is obvious to adults, children will learn from the tale without even realizing a message is being taught. Children will be eager each time they listen to find out if 'bigger and better' really will make Guido happier.

How hard is it for us to learn to be happy with what we have and realize that peace and contentment come with that attitude? This delightful book written in rhyme teaches just that to younger children while they fall in love with Guido, the young rat who loves to guide his gondola for tourists. Students love books with rhyme and rhythm. I loved these books, bought them for my library and shared them with over 400 students! My primary students were thrilled with the books! Many of the children bought this book after hearing the charming story. The pictures are captivating. Kudos to Renee Riva and Steve Bjorkman. We also love her other book, Izzy the Lizzy!

Does having more and bigger stuff really make a young rat happy? Follow Guido on his adventure and find out. It's a message parents will want to share, written in a way their children will want to hear.

OK, I must admit, I am a HUGE fan of this author's books. I have been following Ms. Riva's writings for some time now and "Guido's Gondola" is one of my favorites! The story is totally delightful. It's clever rhymed writing moves right along and you can't help but fall in love with Guido as you turn each page to see how this cute little rat is going to handle his little "problem". The illustrations are magical, and the "moral" of this story makes it a "must read" for adults and children alike! 5 STARS!!!