June Reviews - George and Martha

I have two newbie reviews for you today as part of my June Reviews series... George and Martha: Rise and Shine and George and Martha: One More Time were both released on
June 1. However, the series originated back in the 1970's and 1980's, with George and Martha (and I felt that in order to fairly critique the two newest reprints, I should reread the original first, as it's been many years since I've read it) but are being reprinted in a format very similar to the Easy Reader series.

The George and Martha series shows the tender relationship between two hippopotomi. Alongside watching the two friends as they interact socially and share almost every aspect of their life, readers will also be learning important, valuable life-long lessons.

Marshall, James.
George and Martha.
2007 (1972).
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

Summary from Barnes and Noble:

Two lovable hippos teach the meaning of friendship in five separate vignettes: "Split Pea Soup," "The Flying Machine," "The Tub," "The Mirror," "The Tooth."

In the originating book of the series, we watch as George and Martha interact with each other in a way very similar to childhood friends. What I really found enjoyable about the book is the short, simple "episodes" that teach the following life-long lessons:

1. Friends should always tell each other the truth.
2. Using words to make your friend feel comfortable with who they are.
3. Even though you are friends, you need to know when to respect each other's privacy.
4. It takes two to be friends, so you need to remember to not always focus on yourself.
5. Always try to find the positive and try to cheer your friend up!
   

Marshall, James.
George and Martha: One More Time.
June 2009.
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.
Guided Reading Level: L

Summary from Barnes & Noble:

Great friends aren't hard to find--they're right here! We are delighted to provide another offering of James Marshall's George and Martha in the reader format. Using original art and text from Marshall's storybooks, the tales have been reformatted to the traditional 6 x 9 trim. Marshall's themes are all resonant with a reader age child--navigating the waters of first friendships, honesty versus kindness, curiosity versus privacy.

This book contains the classic "The Scary Movie" and "The Secret Club" stories.

Of course, just like in the original book, George and Martha set out to share some more important lessons with readers... again, this is what appeals to me! I love books that teach valuable life lessons!

1. Remember to comfort your friend when they're scared or nervous... you never know when you may need the favor returned.
2. If your friend excludes you, don't always assume something bad!
   

Marshall, James.
George and Martha: Rise and Shine.
June 2009 (1976).
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.
Guided Reading Level: L

Summary from Barnes and Noble:

Great friends aren't hard to find--they're right here! We are delighted to provide another offering of James Marshall's George and Martha stories in the reader format. Using original art and text from Marshall's storybooks, the tales have been reformatted to the traditional 6 x 9 trim. Marshall's themes are all resonant with a reader age child--navigating the waters of first friendships, honesty versus kindness, curiosity versus privacy.

This book contains the classic "The Fibber," "The Experiment," and "The Picnic" stories.

I am honestly surprised that I haven't come across the older printings of these books in the past... they really are wonderful and teach such valuable lessons! Definitely worth sharing in an early childhood classroom (and ideal for beginning readers, as well)!

The lessons to be learned?

1. With your friend, you can be honest... there's no need to fib. Your friend will accept you for who you are. You don't need to show off.
   
2. Rather than make fun of your friend for an idea that backfires, offer your support.
3. Sometimes (within reason, of course) you should just go along with what your friend wants to do... chances are you might just enjoy yourself!
   

If you're interested in finding out more information about any of the books reviewed or if you'd like to purchase the books, click the cover image for a link to Amazon.com.