Horn Book Review
Henry and dog Mudge have a wonderful time at Mrs. Hopper's house dressing up in old-fashioned costumes in [cf2]House[cf1]. In [cf2]Tree[cf1], Uncle Jake builds Henry a cool tree house--but how can Henry enjoy it without Mudge, who can't climb up? These gracefully written stories contain excitement and warmth. The illustrations, done in the style of Suçie Stevenson, are inviting and uncomplicated. [Review covers these Ready-to-Read titles: [cf2]Henry and Mudge and Mrs. Hopper's House[cf1] and [cf2]Henry and Mudge and the Tall Tree House[cf1].] From HORN BOOK Fall 2003, (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
K^-Gr. 2. Rylant's twenty-first Ready-to-Read book about Henry and his beloved dog, Mudge, continues the tradition of a warm family pet story told in clear, lovely words from the child's viewpoint. Uncle Jake comes for a visit. He is big and "burly" and friendly, a lot like Mudge. In fact, Henry and Mudge like him a lot, and he builds Henry an exciting tree house. There's only one trouble: Mudge can't climb the tree, and Henry feels lonely up there without his soul mate. The resolution is fun, and so is Henry's conflict between adventure and loyalty and love. The pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations aren't by Sucie Stevenson this time, but series fans won't notice much difference in the bright, active pictures that show Henry's physical connection with his big, slobbery, protective, needy friend. A Junior Library Guild selection. --Hazel Rochman
School Library Journal Review
K-Gr 2-When Uncle Jake builds Henry a beautiful tree house, there is a big problem-Mudge cannot climb trees. Unwilling to hurt his uncle's feelings, the boy tries staying in the structure for short periods, then getting down to be with his dog. When the grown-ups notice what is going on, they come up with the perfect solution-the tree house is rebuilt in Henry's bedroom so boy and dog can enjoy it together. The family dynamics are sensitive, warm, and funny. Pen-and-ink and watercolor art illustrates the action, and the final spread on which the tree house is next to Henry's bed is just unexpected enough to elicit giggles. A welcome addition to a deservedly popular series.-Lisa Smith, Lindenhurst Memorial Library, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.