Sam's Cookie

A few reviewers have been upset by some of the language and actions of the characters in this book, but my 1 year old Sam absolutely loves this story. He enjoys hearing his name in books and he responds very positively to the story too. I was a bit bothered by some of the context of this story, but than I realized that the "Sam" in the book is a very young child, who at a certain age, is acting like many children do. He hasn't quite learned to share yet or how to properly manage the situation when the dog takes his cookie... its not uncommon for kids to go through this awkward stage. We read it and we point out what is appropriate along the way. This is a simple written book age and actions appropriate for children 1 and younger.

When my teenagers were babies we read the Sam books over and over. Now we read it to my almost one-year old. The language is simple and the story is easy for toddlers to relate to. And it is so dramatic - perfect for silly voices and sound effects. After reading it twice, my daughter picked up the book herself and babbled about Sam and Dog. If parents are uncomfortable with "Dumb Doggie", it is easy to substitute what they consider appropriate language. But, I think the book validates the way toddlers feel. I don't think it teaches children 'not to share' as some reviewed suggested; I think it teaches that Mommy will always come to the rescue - a lesson well worth reinforcing. And perhaps that pulling Doggie's ear can lead to scary results. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!

My Jared has loved this book since we found it at the library when he was just 1. We read it over and over again. My 4 yr old has, of course, memorized it by now and chants it with me. I agree that I don't like that Sam says "dumb doggie" and it's annoying that when we get to that page both kids will shout it with glee, shaking their fingers. However, neither child would pull our dog's ear or call it dumb because a. they aren't gleeful when they're upset with the dog and b. I teach them not to. I am finally going to buy this book for Jared's 2nd birthday since we have had it and other Sam books out of the library non-stop for a year! (I have another kid on the way so I don't have to worry about him losing interest soon!) I understand the parents who don't like it. However, I'm not looking for books to teach my children behavior. My husband and I do that. The books are here to spark interest, to get my children engaged, excited and curious. Jared adores this story, and if he loves books because of it his life will be enriched. Other Sam books that show Doggie and Sam modeling very positive behavior are Sam's Teddy Bear, Sam's Wagon and Sam's Potty. Doggie helps out Sam very obligingly in all 3 of these.

Around our house, Lindgren's "Sam's" books are hands-down favorites. Most books for babies are picture books -- mere catalogues of static images. A little boring after awhile, don't you think? Each of the "Sam's" books has a real narrative with a lively yet simple story that even a one year old can follow with delight. It's all there -- good characters, drama, humor, exciting climax and comforting resolution. This has got to be a cognative uptick from "See the ball? The red ball." Our Sam's books have been handed down through three children and have lasted ten years. The visually witty Sam's Cookie is everyone's favorite.

We really enjoy the short simple text that accompanies each page. In spite of the simple text, the story involves much drama for preschoolers. This is the first book my active little boy would sit through to completion.