Customer Reviews

Stories for free children

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Compiled by a founding editor of Ms. Magazine, this book is a refreshing alternative to the mass market pap that passes for children's literature today. This collection includes the classic "Ira Sleeps Over" and the original version of Toni and Slade Morrison's "The Big Box." You'll also find tons of poetry, illustrations, fables, and historical pieces.

While loosely related to the album "Free to Be--You and Me," this book is probably best enjoyed by a slightly older age group--eight to early teens or so.

This book belonged to my older sister when we were growing up in the 80's. I had no concept of feminism or discrimination at the time. I just loved the stories and read the entire book over and over again. The whole book is fun, funny, and non- preachy. As a kid, I liked the illustrations and the fun role models-- again, this was way before I even knew of the concept of "role models". It's a great thing to have around for kids to teach them values without smacking them over the head with Important Lessons.

I loved this book as a kid. I still love it. Beautiful writing, illustrations, and really positive content make this book a wonderful addition to any child or adult's library.

As a young girl, I taught myself to read from 45prm read-alongs, and later longer books.... I'm now an attorney, and *almost* had a second major in folklore and comparative mythology.... credentials over with:

My aunt bought me this book when I was about 10yrs old. At the time, I didn't know what sexism or activism or gay or straight or civil rights or social equality were about... but I just really *enjoyed* this book and its message of freedom and being one's *self*, no matter what that was....

A VORACIOUS reader when I was young, my family bought me many books... my Aunt bought me Nancy Drew, The Children's Encyclopedia, and 14,000 Things to Be Happy About.... she also bought me this one. To this day, 25 years later, I remember this book, especially the story "The Princess Who Stood on Her Own Two Feet..." I agree with other reviewers: non-preachy, non-sexed, non-gendered -- just about quiet empowerment, the kind you feel as a kid, and keep forever...

Bravo to the editors of this collection of kids' stories, and my aunt, for simply providing a strong, quiet, and lasting viewpoint so lacking in so many children's stories.... and believe me, I've read them all!!

*Any* child will benefit.... so will you....