Product Description
After helping his friends all week with their homework assignments, Arthur worries that his own homework will be late. Little does he know that his loyalty to his friends has its rewards in the most unexpected ways! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Another great Arthur book
Marc Brown has a talent for capturing situations to which kids can easily relate. As always, this Arthur book is fun and held my daughter's attention. I'm always glad when she chooses Arthur for her bedtime story. ... Read more

Product Description
It's time for bed, but D.W. can't sleep, not even after Mom, Dad, and Arthur tuck her in.Fortunately, D.W. finds that she can ease her fears of the dark all by herself-well, almost! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Realistic Humor
I like all the Arthur and D.W. books because it is clear that the author is a parent and understands what truly goes on in a modern family. Yes, D.W. is a pain, and Arthur is a little bit of a condecending do-gooder, but that is what makes these books so relatable to both children and their parents. Great books with wonderful illustrations.

NOW she's afraid of the monsters
My 3 year old loves this book. However, she never mentioned monsters under the bed until we read this book. Hmm.. seems that wasn't such a good idea to mention. We still read the book, but I skip over certain parts (monsters). I don't want to give my daughter something ELSE to worry about.

Cute book. BUT if your child doesn't know about "monsters", then I would wait or skip certain pages.

Sweet Sleepytime Story
"Good Night, D.W." is another in a series of recent Arthur/D.W. books aimed at slightly younger stories than the original Arthur stories in general. This one finds D.W. trying to get to sleep, but coming up with all sorts of reasons why she can't.

D.W. really wants to get to sleep, but just doesn't seem to be tired. Furthermre, the wind is making noise outside, and so is Baby Kate. Arthur and his parents come in and try to give her some things to help her out. But all of these things don't seem to help and only make her more awake.

"Good Night, D.W." is very cutely and lushly illustrated. One of the best things is the detail. Because this a book, the illustrations can include much more detail than what you usually see on the show. The best part is that D.W.'s normal pink sleeping jumpsuit is now adorned with images of herself, stars, Arthur and a crescent moon wearing a cap. ... Read more

Product Description
It's D.W.'s birthday and all she wants is Mary Moo Cow (purple with pink spots--not pink with purple spots!) But when Mary Moo Cow gets sick to her stomachs (cows have four, you know), D.W. thinks her party is ruined. But Arthur saves the day when he arrives--disguised as Mary Moo Cow! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Review for "arthur" book
This book, Athur's birthday surprise, was very similar to all the books in the "arthur" series.My therapy dogs and I go to 2nd grade each week and children who have difficulty with reading, read to the dogs.Two of the students are particulalry thrilled with the Arthur books and this one delighted both students.Both of these children are reading at the 2nd grade level and this book has just the degree of difficulty to challenge them, but also has such a cute story that it keeps their attention.I would recommend this book and I will continue to use books from the Arthur series

Another great Marc Brown book for kids!
We love this new Arthur series.We bought this as one of the books for our 5 year old daughter for Christmas and she loves it.Our children, a boy who is 10 and a girl who is 5 remind us so much of Arthur and D.W., so the Arthur books always appeal to me.Marc Brown does such a good job at placing real kids thoughts and feelings onto his characters!In this book D.W. is having a birthday party which is themed around her favorite, Mary Moo Cow.When the person who is supposed to wear the cow costume can't come, a certain special brother puts aside his pride to make her party fun!
Love the illustrations and message behind all Marc Brown books! ... Read more

Product Description
rthur fans will rejoice at the unique value of this special collection of classic stories - available together for the first time in this handsomely designed treasury. Read along as everyone's favorite aardvark embarks upon six of his most popular adventures: Arthur's Underwear, Arthur's Lost and Found, Arthur's Teacher Moves In, Arthur Writes a Story, Arthur's TV Trouble, and Arthur's Computer Disaster. With brand new cover artwork and a trim size that lends itself to shared lap time reading, this is a must-have addition to every Arthur lover's bookshelf. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

great price for multiple stories
This book has 6 stories in one book. What a wonderful treat not to have to tote multiple books around the house or into the car when we travel. My kids love to watch Arthur on TV. This is a much better way to spend time with the kids reading than watching a tv program. There are so many colorful pages to look at and cute stories at a great price.

Great value on SIX Arthur books in one
You can't go wrong with this collection of six stories. If your kids love Arthur on TV or in books, this is sure to be a huge hit. ... Read more

Product Description
Arthur worries about remembering his magic tricks for the April Fool's Day assembly and Binky's threats to pulverize him. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Arthur by Marc Brown
My students love series books. This one was a great picture book for April Fools Day.Thanks, Amazon!

Sloppy Work
This book has a major continuity problem - Arthur and Buster are shopping on March 31st, they have problems with Binky the next day at school, and then the following day is April Fool's Day (April 1).Somehow, the author managed to wedge an extra day in there.

Other problems include a teacher watching Binky bully Arthur without intervening, and then everyone laughs when Binky falls off the stage at one point, which is not cool even for a bully.

Otherwise, it's a pretty cool book.

April Fool's Day Prank
This story is about Arthur who is afraid of Binky Barnes.He wants to get stronger so he can beat Binky Barnes! Then, he had nightmares of Binky Barnes chasing him! It was April Fool's Day! I think kids should read this book because it is funny, cute, lovable, and so cheerful. I could laugh forever! My favorite part was when Binky finds out that he has been tricked!

arthur's april fool
my son loved this book.he was having a problem with a bully at school and this book really help him see that even big bully's have weaknesses.

arthur's april fool
it was an okay book.I think that D.W. and Arthur make the perfect brother and sister because they always disagree.It was a funny book because Arthur does a good trick on Binky. ... Read more

Product Description
Fun and Creative Teaching Activities Using Arthur and D.W. Books, Meet the Author Interview, and Much More!
Meet Marc Brown, the creator of Arthur, D.W. and other favorite characters with this extra special, activity-packed book. Includes how-tos for doing an author study, a personal interview with author/illustrator Marc Brown, a step-by-step Arthur drawing lesson led by Marc Brown, and literacy-building reproducible activities linked to Arthur, D.W. and other books‹with artwork especially created by Marc Brown! Plus, a BIG, colorful Arthur Poster. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Marc Brown guide
Wonderful guide. There are so many topics in the Aurther and D.W. series and this guide is perfect at organizing them and provides great activities. I use it every year in my classroom!

Marvellous Marc
I have definitely had my money's worth out of this text.Marc Brown's sister is a teacher so this is a well written resource for teachers.Arthur is such a lovable and real character so the children just adore reading his books and doing the activities.The 2 activities that were the best in my opinion were the 'Thanksgiving' reader's theater and the activity where the students write their own Arthur style story - the activity was really well scaffolded.I used this with a class of Year 1 and 2 children and they wrote fab stories. ... Read more

Product Description
It's time for school! Arthur fans catch a rare glimpse into each beloved character's morning routine. Arthur is running late, and the Brain has lost his lizard! Binky lifts weights, Francine prepares for recess activities, and Muffy searches for the perfect outfit. And even though D.W. is too young to get ready for school, she wishes she could join the fun. And - in her own way - at the end, she does! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Good for my first child
Have seen some episodes for Arthur DVD before.
Recently my first child starts to like reading story books.. so, I just pick one without any deep consideration.
It is much better story for him, because he will have little sister soon.
It concludes "siblinghood" as a main idea. it makes me much more satisfied!

Great Book!
I bought this book for my son who started Kindergarten this year. He really enjoyed it. He was a little anxious about school. After reading the book with me he really look forward to going to school. Thank you Mr. Marc brwon. ... Read more

Product Description
No matter how Buster reassures him, Arthur keeps having nightmare that he'll forget to put his pants on before going to school.So he and Buster devise a number of schemes to keep him from falling asleep...after all, he can't have bad dreams without going to sleep!Or can he?This hilarious Arthur Adventure is sure to strike a chord with parents and children alike. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

My little boy could not contain his laughter
His chuckles gurgled up from his belly and spilled out across the entire room. "His underwear! He is in his underwear! Oh, no!!"

Usually Sam doesn't like books with so much complex art and so much on a page, but this title definitely made him sit up and take notice. The visuals were engaging and not overwhelming... and they were flat out funny.

We got a lot of great stuff to talk about - being scared, embarassed, bad dreams - and the whole time we were enjoying ourselves.

This fact alone makes me rave about the title. Its tough to talk about being afraid and being embarassed... and I have the same dreams over and over and over from early years... what a great way to introduce such topics early on and keep communication open between parents and children!

All because Marc Brown's readers wanted... underwear.

My son and I will take it!

Awesome Underwear
One day, Arthur worries about going to school without pants.He goes to sleep in his pants.Arthur thinks he lost his pants in his dream.Arthur dreams he went to school in his underwear.My favorite part is when Buster dreams he forgets his pants.I recommend you read this book because it is very funny.

Awesome Underwear
One day, Arthur worries about going to school without pants.He goes to sleep in his pants.Arthur thinks he lost his pants in his dream.Arthur dreams he went to school in his underwear.My favorite part is when Buster dreams he forgets his pants.I recommend you read this book because it is very funny.

There's Something About Young Kids & Underwear - a review of "Arthur's Underwear"
Here's an Arthur book that deals with public embarrassment, and as a mom I think there are a number of points that can be made while reading this book.The storybegins with Binky ripping his pants in front of the entire class.Pretty much as one would expect the children fail to show much sympathy.Instead they all begin laughing at poor Binky's misfortune.

That this is not the proper attitude to have is demonstrated by Arthur's reaction to the incident:he begins to dream about a similar experience happening to him.In fact, a good portion of the book is Arthur's dreams and his attempts to stop them.

The whole matter comes to a head when Arthur actually rips his pants pocket in the cafeteria.The children do all laugh, but guess who comes to Arthur's rescue... none other than Binky who has already experienced the downsides of such accidents.He is the only one sympathetic to Arthur; and isn't there a lesson there.

Four Stars.Several good lessons in this book, including 'do unto others...'.Good read-aloud.The book we are looking at - which was published in 1999 - has the newer drawings of Arthur where he looks less like an aardvark.

There's Something About Young Kids & Underwear - a review of "Arthur's Underwear"
Here's an Arthur book that deals with public embarrassment, and as a mom I think there are a number of points that can be made while reading this book.The storybegins with Binky ripping his pants in front of the entire class.Pretty much as one would expect the children fail to show much sympathy.Instead they all begin laughing at poor Binky's misfortune.

That this is not the proper attitude to have is demonstrated by Arthur's reaction to the incident:he begins to dream about a similar experience happening to him.In fact, a good portion of the book is Arthur's dreams and his attempts to stop them.

The whole matter comes to a head when Arthur actually rips his pants pocket in the cafeteria.The children do all laugh, but guess who comes to Arthur's rescue... none other than Binky who has already experienced the downsides of such accidents.He is the only one sympathetic to Arthur; and isn't there a lesson there.

Four Stars.Several good lessons in this book, including 'do unto others...'.Good read-aloud.The book we are looking at - which was published in 1999 - has the newer drawings of Arthur where he looks less like an aardvark. ... Read more

Product Description
Time is running out for buying the perfect gift for Santa. Arthur has to think fast--and his little sister even faster! "Comical, colorful illustrations add to the delightful humor of the story."--School Library Journal. Full-color illustrations. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Kids Love It
This is a good present to give before Christmas.The key is the story's sense of holiday anticipation and of modeled good behavior.But it's not just a fine model; it's engaging.My son listened to the tape almost every night for a month and his older sister borrowed it from him on the other nights.

great holiday book
My students'love Arthur and a holiday book with him was terrific for them!

I didn't like the ending at all.
This was the first Arthur Book I bought for my four year old daughter...who very strongly believes in Santa .As I was nearing the end of this book while reading it to her, I realized where we were going withthe ending.I understand if your target age is ten years old or so andthey are doubtful, but I had to explain to my daughter after we finishedthe book why Santa didn't eat the stuff that Arthur had worked so hard on,and why the sister got rid of it all. I bought this book at a school bookfair, and I was really looking forward to introducing her to Arthur Books. Now, I can't say that I'll ever buy another one.

Great Book - Arthur does it again
Arthur worked hard and did a good jo

We love Arthur's dog Killer!What a great pet!
Not only a great children's book, but a great book for the parent.Loadsof subtle humor if you look close enough (flavors of ice cream at the icecream shop).A great book for all! ... Read more

Product Description
Arthur finds his role as director of the Thanksgiving play a difficult one, especially since no one will agree to play the turkey. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Arthur's Thanksgiving
I teach 2nd grade and my kids love the Arthur series.This is a great book to be read at Thanksgiving time!All my kids loved it.

Not You Standard Thanksgiving Faire- a review of "Arthur's Thanksgiving"
In this book, Arthur is chosen by Mr. Ratburn to be the director of the school's "Thanksgiving Day' play.As expected he is wined and dined for the primo parts by Francine, Buster and friends. The problems start however when it comes to filling the role of the chief bird.No one wants to wear that Turkey suit!

Arthur puts pressure on everyone to get someone to play the part. He tries his parents, his friends, even his sister D.W.Every one has excuses as to why they can't do it.

Arthur begins to think about Turkeys while doing math problems, practicing the piano, and even doing the dishes.Finally he decides to take the part himself.

Despite the ensuing chaos, when the big day comes the performances go well.The moment comes for the Turkey to say his lines.Arthur's comes on stage and goes red with the laughter of the audience; but he is not on stage alone for very long.Soon all of his friends and family are there too-- all dressed like turkeys.Turns out they all 'stepped up' to support Arthur.

Four Stars.[B-].Cute Arthur story that doesn't really go into the Thanksgiving story/Pilgrim story - just in case that is what you are looking for. It does however demonstrate that family and friends are something to be thankful for.

Arthur's Thanksgiving
The book was a brilliant book. I like how Arthur was the director and Francine thought that she was going to direct. Arthur had trouble finding a turkey for the school play and how he had to try to bribe people. Everyone threatened to quit the play if he couldn't find a turkey. He even bought a real turkey. Then in the end, he decided to be the turkey himself.

Ms. Carrolls' Class Book Review
In this story Arthur couldn't find a turkey. The best part of the story was when he found a turkey. We learned that at Thanksgivintg we can have fun like Arthur. Arthur was very funny in this story. Our favorite part of the story was when Arthur was a turkey and then everybody else became a turkey. We think that everyone should read this book because it has lots of funny pictures in it.

AUTHUR'S THANKSGIVING
I think the book "Author's Thanksgiving" is a good book,because it helps kid understand about Thanksgiving.It also tells kids that in anything you do there can be a problem, but all you haveto do is think itout even if you have to hurt a friend's feelings to make something better. I really enjoyed the book and the ending was not what I was expecting (which is a good thing)!It was a very cute thing! ... Read more

Product Description
Arthur is delighted when he finally gets his new puppy, Pal, but Pal+s -accidents+ in the house and all-night barking make life miserable for the entire family, until Arthur comes up with a solution. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Great, buy beware
Great book, kids love it, but please be advised: If you get a dog soon after you read this book, your kids will name him Pal.

Arthur's New Puppy (An Arthur Adventure)
ISBN 0316114537 - Arthur, as a TV character, is a long ago favorite. No one here watches anymore, leaving me no excuse to plunk down and watch along. For that reason alone, I like Arthur books. Add in the fact that kids like Arthur and that entices them to read... and I like Arthur a lot more!

Arthur has gotten a new puppy. He's named him Pal and is determined to train him to be a good, obedient dog. D.W. spends most of the book scoffing at the idea and gently mocking her brother's hopes. Because Pal is afraid of being alone in the garage, he is allowed to spend a couple nights in the house, as long as Arthur remembers to close the pet gate. Of course, Arthur forgets and Pal proves to be a real terror, ripping apart the kitchen and living room and peeing everywhere. Not only that, he runs whenever he sees his leash! Arthur's friends tell him stories of other dogs who have been sent away because they were too much trouble, sending Arthur into a flurry of training activity. Will he get Pal trained before it's too late? Or will he come home from school one day to find that his pal is gone?

Author and illustrator Marc Brown is fantastic, as usual, but this is one case that I'm not totally pleased. Portions of the story are told only in the illustrations, which I find a negative because I think the images should complement the text, not replace it. The story, however, is one that all little pet-desiring children ought to enjoy and their parents will like taking advantage of the chance to explain how much work a puppy can be before the family considers getting one. The relationship between D.W. and Arthur is perfection: they don't get along 100% of the time, but they're never really mean to one another.

Check out more Arthur Adventures, among them, Arthur's Birthday, Arthur's April Fool (Arthur Adventure Series) and Arthur's Eyes: An Arthur Adventure (Arthur Adventure Series).

- AnnaLovesBooks

Arthur triumphs as a trainer!
Can Arthur keep his new pup from being sent away?

In a story that many young readers will identify with, Arthur has a new puppy who misbehaves, as puppies often do! Arthur sets about training him, and brings about a wonderful transformation that amazes everyone, with a fun twist at the conclusion.

If your children are fans of the wonderful TV series, this book is sure to appeal to them.

A Puppy's Training
I liked this book because it has lots of laughs. The story is about a new puppy who really needs trained, but in the endhe's well trained.If you like stories like these then read Arthur's New Puppy.It's a tail wagging story.

Puppy Tricks
I liked this book because I really like dogs. And when I get my owen house I am going to get a dog. I loved reading this book. You should buy this book becuse you can lern how to take car of a puppy. ... Read more

Product Description
Marc Brown playfully illustrates eight of his favorite finger rhymes from his best-selling Finger Rhymes and Hand Rhymes in a new board-book format. Favorite finger rhymes include I'm a Little Teapot, Whoops! Johnny, and Two Little Monkeys.Easy-to-follow diagrams and whimsical illustrations will delight a new generation of fans. Marc Brown is best known as the author and illustrator of the Arthur Adventure series, now a television series, as well as many other acclaimed books for children. ... Read more

Product Description
Arthur and D.W. are back in a new 8 x 8 paperback full of fun! In D.W. The Big Boss, D.W. thinks there should be more sugar in the cake, the house is a mess, Arthur's story voices are all wrong and Kate's baby talk is backwards. But when Dad won't fix breakfast, Mom won't take D.W. to her play date and Arthur stops talking, D.W. realises that being bossy isn't always the best way to get things done. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

DW is great!
My daughter loves all of the books that feature DW.This book is funny, entertaining, and teaches a lesson at the same time!

my boosy granddaughter
hi
read this book to my granddaughter and then we would call her DW if she was bossy
and she got it!
Sheis 3 and a half.
Grandma Debbie

How to Get What You Want Without Being Mean
Wonderfully cute, but also somewhat independent, fiery and kinda bossy at times --- that's Arthur's sister, D.W.!

In this story, D.W. is feeling especially bossy. She tries to boss around everyone in the Read household to get her way. But when she goes to far, she's in for a surprise.

Featuring a great, easy-to-read story and the wonderful, richly colored full-page illustrations that are the trademark of this recent line of "Arthur" books. Also includes a bonus chocolate cake recipe on the back cover. ... Read more

Product Description
Written and illustrated by the creators of the popular Dino Life Guides for Families, this book uses precise language and humorous illustrations to offer specific ways to be a friend and specific ways not to be one.A special section on how to deal with bosses and bullies has valuable information for young children going forth in the world and encountering these situations for the first time. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (32)

Great book
This book was recommended to me by my son's school counselor.It is a great way to talk to your kids about making and keeping new friends.

Good book for children to learn social skills
I purchased this book so that I could it read it to my own elementary age children and also so that I could use it in a classroom.It is a wonderful book that discusses how to be a good friend and also how not to be a friend.The illustrations are fun and familiar to children if they are fans of Arthur.This was a very wise purchase for me, my children, and my future students!

would recommend for shy kids or starting school
my 4 yr old just started pre-k and i think this book is wonderful!It gives the child ideas on how to approach kids and make friends.My son has already made new friends at school!great!

Horrible for my 3 1/2 year old
I do not write reviews often, only when I am unbelievably pleased or completely disappointed.My 3 1/2 has had a tough time making friends with peers.We bought a couple of books and videos as one means for helping her along.

Let me start by recommending the series of books by Cheri J. Meiners.The books don't even compare in regards to teaching my 3 1/2 year old lessons related to friendship and interacting with others...check them out.

As for the book being reviewed, as one reviewer commented the pages are much too busy.In addition, there is a lot of negative content meant to teach children what behavior to avoid, however for a 3 1/2 year old, I think the more exposure they get to negativity the more apt they are to emulate it.Examples:

"You Stupidosaurus!"
"You can't play it's only for boys!"
"Nya, Nya, na, na, na"
"You can't play with her.You're my best friend."
"This game is dumb I quit!"

I'm not naive enough not to realize that my child will be exposed to this, but to be exposed to these concept at 3 1/2 via a book, could be counter productive.

Even the section on ways to be a friend has examples I found asinine:

"My parents are getting divorced.Please don't tell anyone.""I won't"...Can you think of better examples to emulate trust?Yeah me too.

If these quotes haven't deterred you, then spend away, but do check out the Cheri J. Meiners series as I can tell you the books were far and away better for my 3 1/2 year old.

How To Be A Friend: A Guide To Making Friends and Keeping Them
This was purchased and given to a Kindergarten teacher who needed an aid in helping a student learn how to make friends.The examples and suggestions where age appropriate and found to be helpful in communicating proper social skills.The story dealt with the possible feelings and situations that might hinder friendships and how one could possibly deal with such situations. ... Read more

Product Description
In Arthur's Eyes, Arthur is having trouble seeing and learns he needs glasses. But when he wears them to school, everybody teases him. Arthur tries to go without his glasses but is met with some embarrassing situations - including walking into the girls' bathroom! Ultimately, with the help and support of his friends, Arthur realizes his glasses aren't so bad after all. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

It's all wrong, Mommy.
My kindergartener is a kid who desperately *wants* glasses.She checked it out of her school library and read it all by herself.The big disappointment for her is that Arthur looks different in the book than on the cover.She kept commenting how it was all wrong.

Arthur gets glasses, but his friends tease him.He decides not to wear them, but that causes him all sorts of problems.Finally, his teacher shows him how cool glasses are.Arthur wears them, does well in school and sports; and his friends change their mind.They like glasses, also!

This is a good book for children who are hesitant to wear their glasses.It's also great for kids like mine.The words are a little long, so I wouldn't give it to the earliest readers.I'd say it's about first grade level.Younger kids might like having an adult read it to them.

Just beware of the cover.It's confusing to the kids.

A fan of the original artwork...
I have to say that I grew up with the orginal artwork and was very sad when I saw one of my favorite books had been modernized to the PBS version of Arthur instead of when he was an arrdvark. So I, unlike others, was very pleased when I opened the book and realized it was the orginal artwork and not the homogeneous version of Arthur. To all who think it's bad art: it's just a different style than what you are used to seeing. But that doesn't make it bad. However, I can appreciate thinking you're going to see something you're familiar with and seeing something completely different. So I do sympathize with you in that.

New Glasses
I read Arthur's Eyes.I think you should read this book because there is a funny surprise in the middle of the book.In this book, Arthur gets glasses.My favorite part is when he tries on glasses.This part was funny because some of the glasses looked funny on Arthur.I liked this book.

Arthur's Eyes by Justina
Arthur's Eyes was a good example of how your treated when you look different from others. Although everyone is the same and equal, and thats how the teacher treated Arthur,equally.

Great book
I bought this for my 5-year old so that she would have some point of reference for starting school and POSSIBLY dealing with teasing about wearing glasses.Great book.We already had a lot of Arthur books and have occassionally watched him on PBS, so she's slightly familiar with him.Reading about what he tried and went through really helped her think about people teasing others about being different.We already had an OLD Arthur book (Arthur's Nose) so she knew what the OLD Arthur looked like, but I was still slightly disappointed to have the cover picture be of the NEW Arthur. ... Read more

Product Description
Arthur's been given a creative writing assignment but cannot decide what to do. Arthur's an 8-year-old read-a-holic aardvark with a very cheeky, bossy, little sister, called D.W.. Wherever Arthur and his gang (Binky Barnes, Buster, the Brain, Muffy and Francine) meet up, there's always adventure. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

"And leave out the dancing....", my son recites
My 4 year old son loves this story.We got the audio CD collection (Arthur Favorites, vol 1) which has Marc Brown reading - and singing - this story which my son absolutely loves to listen to.He sings the quirky songs that Arthur makes up in trying to come up with a creative story. My son also loves the punch line at the end of the story "and leave out the dancing" - he will just say this to himself and start laughing.I love all the Arthur books because they really hold my sons interest and make him want to read books instead of watch TV.

Great way to teach writing.
As a third grade teacher, I am constantly trying to find ways to catch a student's interest. When it comes time to teach the writing process, I begin by reading this book. Although it seems to be overly simplistic for the grade level, it does convey what happens when your subject is too broad or your ability to stay on topic has gone awry - disaster! The "what not to do" idea in this book has become invaluable.

Excellent Story for Writing A Story!
"Write about something that is important to you," suggest Arthur's teacher, Mr. Ratburn (Page 1). And on the classroom blackboard, Mr. Ratburn has written the following directions:

"Write a story.
1. Have a beginning, a middle, and an end.
2. Use details.
3. Be creative."

There begins Arthur's exciting adventure in creative writing. He first begins with the story that HE wants to tell--"How I Got My Puppy Pal." However, as he speaks to others about his efforts, he is swayed by their suggestions and their ideas. He rewrites his story to include those items because he does not want to create a boring story that no one wants to hear or read. Consequently, his story grows away from his original message and into a wild collage of extraordinary elements that even includes Purple elephants, moon landscapes, song and dance. He presents his strange story to his family and to his shocked class, but he soon discovers, with a little guidance from Mr. Ratburn, that his original idea was the best story to tell after all. Why? His original story was from his own voice, mind, heart, and experience.

This is an excellent little book about a child's view of the writing process and the various influences on that process.The message is clear: it's fine to be your own writer and share your own ideas in your own personal way of expressing yourself. The best stories are those that have a ring of truth about them...where storyteller and story compliment each other.

This book makes a fun introduction to writing and to storytelling. It can encourage young writers to write their own stories with confidence. Even adult writing students can appreciate the books central message about "writing what you know."

Arthur Writes a Story
ISBN 0590394835 - Arthur is faced with the homework assignment dreaded by all kids... creative writing! Mr Ratburn gives them directions and tells them to write about what's important to them. Arthur writes a good story and then reads it to other people - who all tell him something different. Arthur tries to put every new idea into his story, until it's become a confusing mess complete with a song and dance routine! When he reads (sings!) it to the class, it doesn't go over very well and Arthur learns that his first effort was really his best.

As always, this Arthur book has wonderfully detailed illustrations - Arthur's puppy, Pal, for example, is always watching Arthur, just like any other dog! Nice read, with a nice lesson.

- AnnaLovesBooks

Because Arthur is so cool!
I love Pal! (Arthur's dog) Arthur writes about how he got pal for school.I really like Arthur books!!!! Danielle ... Read more

Product Description
With all his friends involved in summer fun activities, Arthur is stuck going on vacation with his family, but he manages to provide a grand time for everyone. Reprint. SLJ. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Arthur's vacation
My six year old grandson loves the Arthur books.Arthur's Family Vacation was one of his favorites.Both my grandson and I enjoyed reading this book.

We Liked This Story
This story is about Arthur going on vacation with his family. Arthur didn't really want to go away with his family. He wanted to be with his best friend. At the end of the story, Arthur really does have fun and comes back to show his friend all the pictures. We liked this story because Arthur did a lot of fun things with his family.

Arthur's Family Vacation by Marc Brown
It's the last day of school and Arthur wants Buster to come with him on vacation instead of going to camp. Arthur's mom and dad say that he can't come so he's disappointed. Everybody packs their stuff and they load the inside of the car and the roof. Arthur's family gets to the hotel. They only have one tiny little room for all of them and the pool is smaller than D.W.'s bathtub, she says. They have problems on their vacation. First, only the parents enjoy their dinner, then they try to write postcards, but they haven't done anything yet. Next it rains. Arthur fixes their trip by planning out a whole bunch of fun stuff for the family. On Friday it stopped raining and it was the best day yet. They went to the beach. When they got home, Buster was already there. Arthur and Buster had missed each other, but Arthur had a great time with his family on vacation. This was a good book, but not the best I ever read. Marc Brown is one of my favorite authors. I'd recommend this book to a second or third grader who likes to watch the Arthur T.V. show. ... Read more

Product Description
Their friends must decide which party to attend when Francine schedules her birthday party for the same day as Arthur+s birthday party. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Not the best children's book.Buyers beware!
I don't mind the story about Arthur and Muffy.I am very surprised that a bottle label with "spin the bottle" was given to Arthur as a birthday gift.Out of all the things in the world, this is a gift given in a Children's book.Very odd and inappropriate.I wish I read the review in more details before I ordered the book.

Not appropriate for young children
My 3 1/2 year old daughter loves reading Arthur, and we take out all of the books from the library. I was quite surprised and rather disappointed when we started to read this book and there was a mention of "spin the bottle", a game for young adults. At the end of the book Francine gives Arthur a bottle as a birthday present so they can play the game. These children in this book are around 8 or 9 and should not even be thinking about kissing games at this age!

not only was the spin-the-bottle annoying...
... but what's wrong with the newer more-evolved Muffy? The lesbian sports jock Muffy we all know and love from PBS?It was bad enough with my daughter demanding to know about spin-the-bottle, but then it comes up again with child number two.I should have thrown this one away.

The book's one saving grace for me was that the cousins who come to visit are from Ohio.Ohio doesn't get a lot of play in fiction, and I did notice growing up that everything seemed to happen in California. Or at least somewhere else. Not the midwest.

My favorite Arthur book--also made a good episode
A very cute book that tells the story of Arthur, an 8 year old ardvark whose birthday party is the same day as his friend Muffy's.After the boys and girls initally side with their own kind, Arthur has the idea to give Muffy a surprise party.
In regards to the 'spin the bottle' complaints, I had no problem with it as a kid, and considering they don't actually play (the joke is that Francine wants to play at all, being the tomboyish girl of the group) I don't think it's going to traumatize anyone.

A Birthday At Arthur's House
I like this book because it is Arthur and Muffy's birthday.It reminds me of when I was in first grade.I had the same birthday as someone else.I like Marc Brown.My favorite part is when they surprised Muffy by hiding in different places in Arthur's house.I think you should read this book because it's a good book. ... Read more

Product Description
Arthur's Mystery Envelope It looks like trouble when the principal asks Arthur to take home a large envelope marked CONFIDENTIAL. His friends try to guess what's inside. It might just be information on...summer school! Will Arthur face the consequences or pretend to lose the envelope? In chapter-book format, for children who are ready to read on their own, this mysterious adventure will surely be a hit among Arthur fans. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Arthur chapter book #1 - Good but has creepy parts
Hello. You can call me StoryMaker. I read Arthur's Mystery Envelope (Arthur chapter book #1) because I just had to know what was in the envelope. It really shocked me. This was a fun book to read. I think the reading level is just right for me - the text is easy to understand and I am old enough for longish chapter books. This book is long but not too long - a very nice reading level. In this book, Arthur is sent to the principal's office and is given an envelope that he is supposed to bring to his mom. What could the message inside be? He thinks it might be about having school in the summer. His friends give him different kinds of advice. What's inside? Read to find out the surprising answer. Something I don't like is that Arthur's day dream when he's doing homework and Arthur's dream at night are creepy. Not exactly scary, but weird and creepy. Also, when Arthur was doing his homework and he got "Think of a word that rhymes with 'hope' and 'rope'" I thought that he was mad because it was too easy but then after a while I realized "envelope" was why Arthur was mad. That homework still is far too easy for a kid his age. Still, the overall rating remains 4 stars because of the great story. Overall: At least see what it's like at the library and see if you like the reading level. (I'd call it grades 2-4 or something near that.) Signed, StoryMaker. "Gotta trust the kid's review!"

Is Arthur in trouble?
I love reading children's books, even though I am not a child anymore. Arthur has always been one of my favorite TV shows. Therefore I decided to read one of the books based on it. I was very much impressed as to how good the story was, and in par with the TV show.

The story starts off with Arthur and his friends, enjoying their time in school, when an announcement is made for Arthur to come to the Principal's office. Arthur is very nervous, because nobody gets called to the principal's office unless they are in trouble, and Arthur doesn't even remember what he did. When he goes to see Mr. Haney (The Principal), he gives Arthur a sealed envelope with the words `private' and `confidential' stamped on it, and tells Arthur to give it to his mother. Arthur is now scared, and starts wondering as to whether he should give the envelope to his mother or not. The book continues with Arthur's friends giving him advice on what he should do with the envelope, and in the end, revealing what the envelope actually contains and whether Arthur gives it to his mother or not.

This is a great book for young children, as it provides a very good moral that you should face your troubles, not hide or run from it. Even adults will find the book humorous at times, when reading this story to their children. I would recommend this book to anyone having children, as it will be a good way to spend time with your kids by reading this story with them. Even if you don't have children, you will enjoy reading this book if you like the TV show.

Mystery
Arthur gets called down the principal's office one day and the principal gives him a large envelope to give to his mother when he gets home.However, because Arthur does not want to get in trouble he does not give his mom the letter until much later that night.All day long Arthur and his friends try to come up with creative ways for Arthur to loss the envelope.I like this book because it teaches the child a lesson, by using ordinary everyday occurrences.I also enjoyed the creative ways the characters made up of how Arthur could loss the envelope.In the end Arthur learns that even if he might be in trouble, his parents can't help him if they do not know what is wrong.

A teriffic book to the beginning of the series
This book has a teriffic, funny storyline.If kids read the books in numerical order, this one is sure to get them inspired into reading Arthur.I highly recommend it to everyone.

Good mystery
I really liked this book because I didn't know what was going to happen until the end.I really thought that Arthur was in trouble. It's a good mystery and you have to read it to find out what it's about.I'm not going to tell you. ... Read more

Product Description
In Arthur Jumps into Fall, Arthur's dad gives him a special job to do-raking the leaves in the backyard. After gathering a big pile of leaves, Arthur decides to take a break and ends up jumping in the pile of leaves with Pal, scattering them everywhere. Just then, Arthur's friends show up to help and they each take turns raking. Soon the job is done . . . until they all jump in for a leaf party! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Ah, the Simple Pleasures
In "Arthur Jumps into Fall," autumn has come to Elwood City, and specifically to the Read family yard. Yep, it's covered in leaves and Mr. Read has assigned Arthur the task of getting them raked up. He tries to pass the chore off to D.W., but Mr. Read has other work for her.

Arthur finds that doing the raking is hard work. However, he soon discovers that piles of fall leaves can be a lot of fun. And when his friends show up, they find the joys of playing in leaves together.

The back of the book includes a cool cut-out feature --- "Pal Around as Pal!" It's a Halloween mask of Arthur's dog, Pal.

Kids will like this Arthur Adventure!
What child doesn't enjoy one of the Arthur adventures? In Arthur Jumps into Fall, Arthur's dad instructs him to rake the backyard leaves. Arthur isn't happy about the chore he's been given and suggests that his sister, D.W., help him. Alas, dad has other things in mind for D.W.

Arthur heads out to the backyard and pushes leaves around, complaining about the job. When he has a small pile, he and his dog, Pal, decide to take a break and immediately start jumping in the leaves and scattering them about.

It was fun, but the leaves must be raked. Arthur's friends stop by and in good Tom Sawyer fashion, the friends show how good raking should be done. The huge pile just begs to be used, however, and when they're done raking...well, you probably won't be surprised at what happens, but it will be a fun read.

Armchair Interviews says: Once again, Arthur entertains children in his new adventure, Arthur Jumps into Fall.




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