Harriet and Walt

It's a pity so many mothers of young children want to shield their youngsters from the "bad" words in this wonderful book--words like "stupid" and "dumb", etc., because Nancy Carlson has created a perfect story to teach how hurtful name-calling is. It's a difficult concept to teach without referring to some "name-calling" words. As a children's librarian, I have observed over the course of many years that children will learn these words on the playground, from the kids next door, or sometimes in their own homes, at a very early age. This lovely book takes that fact and turns it into a positive and memorable lesson that will have youngsters thinking twice before calling others hurtful names. I highly recommend it!

What a wonderful tool to use when trying to teach children that words can be hurtful and inappropriate! As a Children's Librarian, I know I can count on Nancy Carlson to supply us with good materials to help teach our kids how to be good, full people. Sometimes it may require a little work and discussion on our part, but children's books are meant to be shared with the kids.