Reviews

A Hole is to Dig by Ruth Krauss

mdevlin923's review

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5.0

A collection of definitions for things that children encounter every day, like holes, sea shells, snow, and the sun.

While there is no actual plot, each page has lovely (if sometimes abstract) definitions. Beautiful sentiments and adorable vintage Sendak illustrations. At my wedding, excepts from this book were read...because, truly, some of the concepts and ideas are wonderful.

Favorite Quotes:
"The sun is so it can be a great day."
"A dream is to look at the night and see things."

kimberlymichelle's review

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funny inspiring lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? N/A
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.5

Delightful. Would be less dated if there was more diversity in the drawings.

thirdgrace's review

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hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? N/A
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

5.0

mnstucki's review

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4.0

So fun! Could inspire a whole-class writing project in a Pre-K through first grade classroom.

kristenremenar's review

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4.0

I just love Ruth Krauss, and Maurice Sendak's illustrations in this one remind me of his "Really Rosie", one of my favorites as a kid. I love the way Ruth looks at ordinary things here and sees the silly or the kid-logic: "Toes are to dance on/ Eyebrows are to go over your eyes.... a tablespoon is to eat a table with". This will be fun for a quickie writing exercise with kids!

cdhotwing's review against another edition

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informative lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? N/A
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.0

johnbeeler's review

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5.0

"The world is so you have something to stand on."

"The sun is so it can be a great day."

Cosi loves doing the actions associated with the definitions ("noses are to rub" or "ears are to wiggle."). I have never grown tired of reading this.

katieckb's review

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3.0

This is a short children’s picture book that gives definitions to common words that young kids may use and used in contexts with which they would be familiar (e.g. hand, earth, dirt)

eurueta's review

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5.0

"dogs are to kiss people" / "children are to love"

La ternura, la inocencia, las ilustraciones. El combo Ruth Krauss y Maurice Sendak es demasiado perfecto. En fin, este es el único diccionario que importa.

takethyme's review against another edition

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5.0

This small book with its celery green cover and whimsical but simple drawings is a must-have for the adult with young children. My 1969 copy has fanciful black and white penned drawings with barn-red ink to describe what is going on. I understand that Ms. Krauss had children make suggestions and revisions before completing this little novelty. And with the exception of one minor issue with matches, the content is still up-to-date.

Anyone with young ones will realize in a heartbeat that the wordage comes from children:

"Arms are to hug with." Of course!

"Rugs are so dogs have napkins." Who knew?

"Steps are to sit on." Common sense at its finest.

"Mud is to jump in and slide in and yell doodleedoodleedoo". Does it get any better than this?

And the illustrations by Maurice Sendak. Wow. Take a look at the kids at the party and their silly hats. Be sure and notice the children that are dancing on their toes include both boys and girls. Remember, this was first published in 1952 and Mr. Sendak is definitely not sexist with his observations. How refreshing! And don't forget the cute little artwork found at the corner of some of the pages. Find your child(ren) now, sit down in your rocker and share some special time. Make happy memories.