Another Review at MyShelf.Com

Mother, Mother, I Want Another

by Maria Polushkin Robbins
Illustrated by Jon Goodell



      This charming picture book has been out in hardcover for a couple years and is now available in softcover. The story begins with baby mouse's bedtime. He goes through his comforting nighttime routine of pajamas, toothbrushing, stories and a kiss. Then, as the mother mouse slips out, the baby cries, telling her, "I want another, Mother." He wants another mother! Mother mouse is stricken but duly collects a variety of other mothers in hopes of making her baby happy. In the end, of course, we learn that he definitely isn't looking for a replacement mom and all is right with the mousey world.

The book's play on words and motherly moms make for a funny and cozy story for any read aloud. And Jon Goodell's illustrations are so lively and cute, they are only just this side of legal. The stricken mom's first reaction to a demand for another mother is particularly delightful. I also liked the way he handled scale in the illustrations, considering that some of the mothers coming to call were much much bigger than a mouse. Also, each of the mothers has very distinctive personalities as portrayed in the illustrations (I'm fairly sure I recognized my mom in the frog.) This book is a sure hit with young children and a perfect addition to any home library - you'll end up reading it often, and every time will be a treat.

The Book

Alfred A. Knopt / Random House
September 2007 (New Softcover Edition)
Reviewed from hardcover edition
0517559471
Picture Book
More at Amazon.com
Excerpt
NOTE:

The Reviewer

Jan Fields
Reviewed 2007
NOTE: Reviewer Jan Fields is the editor of Kid Magazine Writers emagazine and has written dozens of stories and articles for the children's magazine market.
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