Mean Margaret

This is a charming story about a nit-picky woodchuck named Fred who has his life turned upside down; first by his marriage to Phoebe, and right on top of that by the appearance of a lost human baby on his doorstep. The baby, who Phoebe names Margaret, is not only your typical demanding toddler, but her family life has resulted in her developing an especially unpleasant personality. Margaret's presence forces Fred to adapt to change and circumstances he once would never have accepted. Her absence likewise inspires her human family to make some changes of their own. Even Margaret herself is changed by the experience. The friendship and generosity of Squirrel, Skunk, and Snake (however unwillingly on Snake's part) was appealing as I had never imagined a friendship between the species, or pictured a snake as a cherished friend.

A National Book Award finalist, this book is now all too little-known. It's a great story and Jon Agee's illustrations of loving woodchuck newlyweds and loud messy toddler convey humor and tenderness. A winner for kids eight to ten. carolweston.com

I read Mean Margaret and I thought that it was very funny. Other people should read this book if they want to laugh a lot. I think that this book was a sensatinal read. I bet you would lOVE Mean Margaret! Once you have read it,you might want to recommend it to your friends. Your friends might like it too.

Tor seidler is my cousin, and always gives me his books for Christmas, or his mom does, but usually I don't get around to reading them, but this praticular one intrigued me, so I decided to see what it was like. I found myself indulged in an exciting and hysterical plot. This is a great read!

I have been a school librarian for over 20 years and would rate this one tops in its appeal as a read-aloud for third graders. I especially appeciated the way it showed how family is created - the gradual movement away from self-centeredness to mutual caring and support. I found it a tender, funny book, and so did the kids.