Discover your next great read with our book reviews
Cover of Madeline's Rescue

Madeline's Rescue

by Ludwig Bemelmans

Book Details

Publisher:Penguin
Published:2000-05-01
Pages:65
Format:BOOK
Language:en
ISBN:9780140566512

Reading Info

Age Range:6-10

About This Book

Winner of the Caldecott Medal “In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines lived twelve little girls in two straight lines the smallest one was Madeline.” Nothing frightens Madeline—not tigers, not even mice. With its endearing, courageous heroine, cheerful humor, and wonderful, whimsical drawings of Paris, the Madeline stories are true classics that continue to charm readers even after 75 years! When Madeline falls into the river Seine and nearly drowns, a courageous canine comes to he

Our Review

This charming Parisian adventure follows the brave Madeline and her eleven boarding school companions after a dramatic rescue from the Seine River introduces a lovable new member to their household. The story unfolds with the series' signature rhyming cadence and whimsical illustrations that bring the "old house in Paris" vividly to life, celebrating themes of courage, compassion, and the joyful chaos of community. Young readers will be captivated by the spirited little girl who fears nothing, and the narrative cleverly builds suspense around who will get to keep the heroic dog. It’s a timeless tale that blends gentle humor with real childhood emotions about friendship and belonging.

Bemelmans' distinctive artistic style, with its warm, yellow tones and playful depictions of Parisian landmarks, provides a rich visual feast that makes every page a discovery. The book stands out for its perfect balance of lighthearted verse and genuine emotional weight, as the girls navigate fairness and shared responsibility. Children who enjoy stories about resilient characters, loyal animal companions, and the dynamics of group living will find much to love here. It’s a read-aloud gem that continues to capture young imaginations with its unique blend of old-world charm and universal childhood experiences.

Themes

Juvenile Fiction

Subjects

Juvenile Fiction