It's a newly published Madeline book that was written by the grandson of the author of the original Madeline books, and it does stay true to the originals. Written in simple verse, it's a fun read aloud pick.
Madeline and the girls, along with Miss Clavel, travel to sunny Italy to escape the cold of Paris. They take in the sites of Rome, which are nicely illustrated, and just as the day ends in The Forum, Miss Clavel's camera is snatched from her by a little orphan pick pocket.
That's the moment I paused a little when reading the book.
Hmm. . . reality? Perhaps.
I'm not so sure how much I like it in a children's book.
I don't know.
The story continues, and soon after Madeline finds the little thief in a den of stray cats, she explains that she steals because she needs to eat and to feed the cats. Madeline says,
"While I applaud your charity,
Let me say this with clarity: STEALING IS WRONG -- no matter the cause.
You may not like it, but those are the laws."
Whoa! Madeline, don't be so harsh. Life is not that simple.
I still like the book, a lot. Obviously we can use to initiate a host of discussions on charity, theft, compassion, poverty, laws, and, well, honesty -- as it turns out, the orphan is no orphan at all.
2 comments:
Funny timing since I just placed this book on hold at the library. I think I will do quick read through on my own before reading it with my kids.Would love to hear about some of your favorite English kids books about Italy. We are starting to talk about it with the kids. So far we have enjoyed "Rome Antics", "Gaspard on Vacation", and "Strega Nona" but I am sure there are many more so please keep sharing the reviews!
Absolutely, and thanks for the comment.
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