What the Dormouse Said: Lessons for Grown-Ups from Children's Books

I just happened upon this book in my local bookstore, and I feel lucky really. It's a gem. Filled with wonderfully witty and wise quotations from childrens books through the ages. The quotations brought back lovely memories of my own childhood and my own childhood reading. They also reminded me of how beautiful and eloquent and wise the simple thoughts are from great children's literature. Thank you, Amy Gash, for putting together such a thoughtful and moving collection. I plan to buy many as gifts for friends and for my own children's teachers. There's a lot to learn from children's literature--wisdom and perspective and, perhaps most of all, a sense humor. I can't think of a better introduction to the world of children's literature--and what it has to offer to grown ups too--than What The Dormouse Said.

This is a delightful collection of quotations that anyone who loves children's books will enjoy. Sources range from Alice in Wonderland to Winnie-the-Pooh to Narnia to Harry Potter. The book is divided into chapters, including Imagination and Adventure; Animals; Character and Individuality; Greed, Envy, Pride, and Sloth; Songs and Stories. There's an index of titles so you can look up your favorites. Here are a couple of my favorites: "Believe me, my young friend, there is nothing -- absolutely nothing -- half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats." ("The Wind in the Willows"); "If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world." ("The Hobbit").

Thank you Amy Gash, for creating this beautiful volume of quotes from children's books. It's a real treat to revisit the classics through the poignant quotes in this book. This book is at the top of my gift-giving list!

This book is a based on a terrific premise, teaching that oftenthe most insightful comments come from the most simple expressions.It would make a perfect holiday gift this coming season.

What the Dormouse Said is a terrific resource for anyone who loves children's literature or benefits from a little wisom and wit...and that include everyone! It is also a great tribute to the writing talents of children's authors. This attractive little treasure is my gift of choice for the holidays, I am giving it to teachers and anyone I know who works with children or is young at heart. The selections are diverse, well-organized and just plain fun to read.