Thursday, October 09, 2014

Children's Book Review of Mini-Myths by Joan Holub

Age Range: 1 - 3 years
  • Author: Joan Holub
  • Series: Mini Myths
  • Board book: 24 pages
  • Publisher: Harry N. Abrams; Brdbk edition (September 16, 2014)


About Be Patient, PANDORA!
When Pandora is warned by her mother not to open a box, her spirited curiosity trumps her obedience. Pandora harmlessly touches the box, innocently leans on the box, and eventually, albeit accidentally, bursts the box open! The cupcakes that were hidden inside are ruined, except for one last vestige, which Pandora presents in the hope that her mother still loves her. Leslie Patricelli’s depictions of this physical comedy bring a lively narrative to Joan Holub’s carefully crafted text. Includes a summary of the original Pandora’s Box myth at the end.

Praise for Mini-Myths: Be Patient, Pandora!
"These adorable volumes feature the title characters learning important life lessons with slight allusions to their Greek mythology counterparts."
--School Library Journal

Purchase “Be Patient, Pandora!”:  Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | iTunes

About Play Nice, HERCULES!
Hercules is not as interested in “playing nice” as he is in playing strong! But when one feat of strength destroys his little sister’s 12-piece tower, he must use his powers for good to restore the tower and seek her forgiveness. She forgives him indeed, and then shows her own strength by gleefully knocking down the stacked blocks herself! Joan Holub’s expertly focused text pairs perfectly with Leslie Patricelli’s famously humorous illustrations. Includes a summary of the original Hercules’s Twelve Labors myth at the end.

Praise for Mini-Myths: Play Nice, Hercules!
"These adorable volumes feature the title characters learning important life lessons with slight allusions to their Greek mythology counterparts."
--School Library Journal

Purchase “Play Nice, Hercules!”:  Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | iTunes

My Review of Mini-Myths:
Absolutely loved both of these books! The illustrations are fun and simple, as is the text. Perfect for a toddler or earlier preschooler.

As soon as the books arrived, I showed them to my two year old. We sat down to read them both. She giggled as we read Be Patient, Pandora! My two year old is very much like Pandora - curious, inquisitive, and impatient. But what toddler isn't? Pandora is tempted to find out what is in the wrapped up box. Her mom warns her not to touch it. But the wrapped gift is way too tempting for Pandora. This book teaches children to listen to their parents and the consequences of not listening. It also teaches kids that sometimes its better to wait because the surprise can be so much fun!

Play Nice, HERCULES was just as entertaining. Like every big brother, he torments his little sister by knocking down some blocks she built. She cries and he rebuilds her creation. But his lesson isn't finished there. I don't want to spoil the ending because it really captured a kid moment perfectly. This book teaches kids the importance of forgiveness, sharing, and playing nicely together.

We are now huge fans of the Mini-Myths children's picture books. Perfect for stocking stuffers for the holidays or just a little treat!

* I was given copies of both Mini-Myths books for my honest review.


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