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The French orphans care deeply for Madeline and are understandably distressed when she needs to have her appendix out. This 1939 classic features everyone's favorite little red-headed fille, Madeline. We love this book. But when they visit her at the hospital and see her scar, they're just like any other kids -- they want their appendixes out too.There's not much to criticize in Ludwig Bemelmans's lovely little book, though I will say that his depiction of a zoo seems rather outdated. Regardless, I think that Madeline's teacher and classmates' sense of compassion toward her in her time of need still makes this a good book for vegetarian and vegan kids.
The great drama of this story is Madeline's appendicitis and subsequent visit to the hospital. Madeline is one of twelve girls at a Parisian boarding school, who shows herself to be exceptional through daring actions such as crossing a bridge on the rail, while the other girls walk sedately in their line. The twelve girls' ordered, convivial life is well portrayed in unique illustrations and skillful writing which emphasize dramatic action rather than description. The story ends in humor, with eleven little girls returning home from a visit there, and crying to have appendicitis so they can enjoy the candy and toys that Madeline received.The Madeline books have been loved by children for seventy years, for good reason. Their engaging illustrations, careful writing, and subtle humor combine to present a secure and romantic world that is very appealing.
Yet, she becomes the star of the story when her friend comes to see her and she shows them her scar. The book Madeline tells the story of a child who has to get their appendix taken out. The story is told in such a manner that all of the children feel sorry for her. Thus, in the end all of the children want to have their appendix out. In other words, they all want be accepted.
This book is a true classic. It makes me wish that I could visit Paris THIS April.
It has bothered me for years. Since we know Madeleine is in the hospital there is an extra little girl in this one picture.
I don't know if it was intentionally meant as a joke by the author (to see how many people would notice) or if it was a hastily drawn mistake, but in the picture where the girls had come home AFTER visiting Madeleine in the hospital, they are all standing in line, breaking their bread (before they brush their teeth and go to bed). There is a mistake in this classic book.
In the next three consecutive picture of the girls there are only eleven. Count them.
When they are breaking their bread there are twelve. I have never heard or seen any discussion about this and would like to know if any of you has ever noticed it.
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