M.O.M. (Mom Operating Manual), by Doreen Cronin and Laura Cornell, 54 pages.
For children who would like to understand moms better, Doreen Cronin’s new picture book is a definite must-read. It’s also a must-read for moms who want (or need) a laugh.
Seriously!
The M.O.M (Mom Operating Manual) will instruct children how to understand, treat and nurture the complex species commonly known as “moms”. (Dads can pick up some valuable tips and hints here too.)
Moms come in various shapes, sizes and temperaments. They have various talents, skills and abilities. They are “the most advanced human models on the planet.” But they are also complicated, and it’s essential to understand them and to take good care of them.
Here are some the questions that this manual will answer for the curious: How much sleep do moms need? What could it signify if your mother is completely silent (other than laryngitis)? What behaviour do mothers exhibit when stressed, “overloaded” or “malfunctioning”? What are the visual and auditory signs and symptoms that they display prior to “losing it” – and can anything be done to avoid a complete meltdown?
Of course, the question that every child really wants to know about mothers is, “Do they truly have eyes in the backs of their heads?” This crucial question is answered with results from the latest research: “It is widely reported that moms have eyes in the backs of their heads … science has been unable to disprove this. Act accordingly.”
As this “informative” book advises, moms are infinitely precious, truly amazing, and should last for many, many years (with the proper maintenance and care). At the same time, it’s good to know that research about mothers is ongoing.
Laura Cornell’s cartoon-like illustrations compliment perfectly the “tongue-in-cheek” suggestions and advice about mom-care which is so freely dispensed in this book
Note: Batteries are not included with copies of the Mom Operating Manual.
** Recommended for ages 4 to 8 years.
Big Brothers Don’t Take Naps, by Louise Bordon, 32 pages.
Nicholas, who adores his big brother, James, has discovered that there are many advantages to being an older brother.
For example, James can read – in fact, he can read just about every word in each of his books. He can print his name. He knows a lot (because he attends school), and he always has great ideas about important things like Hallowe’en costumes. He goes to and from school each day on a big yellow bus. He can cross the street by himself.
What’s the very best thing about being a big brother? In Nicholas’ opinion, it’s the fact that big brothers do not have to take afternoon naps … and he longs for the day when he also won’t have to take a nap.
James is a very kind big brother and he’s also Nicholas’ best friend. James plays with Nicholas, reads to him, and teaches him how to print his name and count backwards. He helps him to cross the street, and shares his toys and ideas. And one day, James shares something very special with Nicholas … a secret – a secret which means that Nicholas won’t have to take an afternoon nap much longer … because he too will be a big brother!
This charming picture book has been enhanced with the large, clear illustrations of artist Emma Dodd.
** Recommended for ages 3 to 6 years.
These reviews appeared in The Stratford Gazette on December 29th. Written by Sally Hengeveld, Librarian.
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