About the Author

Nancy Carlson is the author and illustrator of numerous picture books for children that feature the characters Loudmouth George, Harriet, Louanne, Pig, and Arnie. She is also the creator ofBunnies and Their HobbiesandBunnies and Their Sports. Ms. Carlson lives in Minnesota.

Reviews

The ebullient pig-heroine is a happy adherent to the adage ``Love Thyself.'' ``I like me!'' she exclaims from the cover and goes on to say, ``I like my curly tail, my round tummy and my tiny little feet.'' The fresh-faced piggy elaborates: she always treats herself with respect by keeping herself clean, eating good food and exercising properly. She takes care of other important needs, too, drawing lovely pictures, reading good books and cheering herself up when she's feeling down. Never too hard on herself for failures, she points out that when she makes mistakes, she tries again. The formation of a healthy self-image, the cornerstone of a happy and successful life, is what this book is all about. Bright, colorful pictures complement the bouncy, upbeat text; Carlson skillfully imparts a positive message without denying that life holds embarrassingeven sadmoments. The book and its heroine are loaded with appeal. Ages 2-6. (August)

PreS-Gr 3‘Nancy Carlson's book (Viking Penguin, 1988) comes to life with cheerful narration, sound effects, and songs written and sung by Sarah Weeks. In short sentences, a young pig explains her satisfaction in liking and taking care of herself. Xylophone music and simple sound effects accompany the narration. Following the story, there are follow-along activities which are loosely tied to the activities of the pig as shown in the book. In the story, the pig rows a boat; "Row, Row, Row Your Boat" sung as a round is the accompanying activity. The pig exercises and rides a bike; there are very basic exercises for children to perform. Preschool children shouldn't have any trouble following the instructions to stretch up, march in place, etc. To go along with the pig's brushing her teeth, the tape includes a lively song, "Brush Your Teeth," done in a light rock vein. None of these activities really develops the book's focus on self-esteem, but they are enjoyable and youngsters will have fun with them. At the close of the tape there is a brief segment about the author, her interests as a child, and her writing/illustrating endeavors today.-Elizabeth C. Fiene, Clermont County Public Library, Bethel, OH