Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews

Henry and Mudge and the Wild Wind

Henry and Mudge and the Wild Wind

Cynthia Rylant
Illustrator:  Sucie Stevenson 
Fiction  Series
For ages 5 to 7
Simon and Schuster, 1996   ISBN: 978-0689808388

One summer day, Henry and his dog Mudge are outside when a big storm blows up. Henry does not like thunder and lightning, and when a storm is around, he tries to cheer himself up by whistling. Mudge is so frightened by storms that he hides and whines when it is thundering outside.

This storm is a big one, and both Henry and Mudge are feeling afraid. Mudge hides in the bathroom, and Henry whistles as hard as he can. Then Henry's father comes up with a way to keep busy until the storm passes on.

Many of us feel uncomfortable when thunder is booming and lightening is flashing outside. This charming book addresses the fears that one boy and his dog have. Children will see that it is all right to be afraid. There are things that you can do to make your fears less overpowering.

With a simple story, gentle humor, and a meaningful message, this early reader title is sure to be a firm favorite with Henry and Mudge fans.