Review by StephenieJ -- Puffy and the Formidable Foe

[StephenieJ]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Puffy and the Formidable Foe" by Marie Lepkowski and Ann Marie Hannon.]

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2 out of 4 stars

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This is an adorable children's book about a cute little grey cat named Puffy who went on the hunt for a mouse. Along his hunt he stumbles across many interesting things, but one creature he's never seen before turns into an unforgettable encounter that leaves Puffy with his nose as alert as his mind!

Puffy and the Formidable Foe is super cute, however I would still have to rate this book a 2 out of 4 stars. When I read children's books, having children myself, I tend to lean more toward books that have minimal words that my child does not understand right away. Words like "obscene" and "ensue" left my child a little confused and took her interest away quickly. A note in the front of the book did explain the author's reasoning behind the vocabulary which is fine and understandable, but I do not find it necessary when trying to attract and maintain the interest of a younger child.

The book's illustrations were simple, animated, and were easily my favorite part about the book! They were consistent and fit the story perfectly. The artwork in children's stories are very important to a child and I especially enjoyed that there is a page at the end for the child to color. It was also admirable that the author offered to send more pictures through email. This showed that her interest was in engaging children and leaving an impression even after the story was finished.

I read this book to my 7 year old daughter and she remained fairly entertained throughout the entire story. I think children her age would enjoy it and have an easy time reading it which, to me, is very important in children's books. It had all of the elements of a good story; an objective was introduced right out of the gate, obstacles were faced in the middle and at the end, Puffy learned a lesson about the world outside and the things that are lurking around.

As far as the story having an actual lesson for children, there really was none. I do not expect every single children's book to have some kind of valuable life lesson at the end, but the majority of books I personally choose for my daughter have some sort of message in between the lines and rhymes which is probably why I expect it from all of them. However if you're looking for a book for a child who loves adventurous animals with a tinge of humor, this book is for you!

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Puffy and the Formidable Foe
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Like StephenieJ's review? Post a comment saying so!

[Jeremie Mondejar]

wow, you are the second person I saw that rated also 2 out of 4 stars. Hmmm, I wonder if it is really good. I wanna check it for myself. Thanks.

[StephenieJ]

Thank you for responding! It wasn't TERRIBLE at all. It just wasn't super either.

[KlareAllison]

Puffy and the Formidable Foe is a children's book. I generally love books in this genre. Puffy, the cat, is the main character of the story and eventually realises the need for home. Good review, StephenieJ. It's unfortunate the book failed to impress you.

[StephenieJ]

Thank you KlareAllison, I guess I didn't see the message the same way you did but it makes sense now that I think about it! I read a lot of books to my kids but usually they have more "in your face" kinds of messages. I appreciate your response

[KlareAllison]

Thank you KlareAllison, I guess I didn't see the message the same way you did but it makes sense now that I think about it! I read a lot of books to my kids but usually they have more "in your face" kinds of messages. I appreciate your response

You're welcome, StephenieJ. I understand your perspective on this book. One of the things I enjoy about this community is the different views/analyses which are often showcased on a particular book. It's such fun!

[geoffrey ngoima]

Waw, the author used the words "obscene" and "ensue"? Even the words 'Formidable Foe" can be hard, but I can one could explain these words to the child before the story, it may even improve their vocabulary. Great review btw