Cindy Post Senning

Prom and Party Etiquette is a guide to proper behavior at special occasions for teens, written by the co-directors of the Emily Post Institute. The book’s tone is somewhat old-fashioned, even when the subject matter is decidedly not—an example is a paragraph near the end in which the authors say of provocative dancing that “…they felt quite strongly that you should not grind at a graduation dance.” Charming retro line drawings illustrate passages throughout, and although the book show more makes the most sense when read from beginning to end, a helpful index allows readers to go directly to advice on a particular issue. Tricky topics like drinking and sex at the prom are handled in a non-committal way, as the authors advise teens not to do anything that would cause them to lose respect for themselves or others, and provide suggestions on ways to turn down a beer without causing offense. While this book would probably be helpful to many teens, the information and ideas in it aren’t novel, and can easily be found online. Prom and Party Etiquette seems more like a book that would be given to a teenager as a gift than one that would be sought in a library, but it is still worth reading, even if it’s not right for your library’s collection. Ages 12-17. show less

I loved the way this book twisted manners into something cool to children like magic. It shows how you can get what you want by being polite and it isn't rude. And ending the book with the 3 most magic words "I love you" show that manners are taught because adults love us and want us to behave correctly!

Emily loves everything about Christmas. She especially loves getting presents. Now that she's older, she loves giving presents too. There are lots of awesome presents you can wrap in pretty paper, but Emily knows there are other gifts too. Gifts of kindness, caring, sharing, and helping don't cost anything, and everyone is happy to receive them. As the holiday approaches, Emily's help and consideration are just what everyone needs including Santa.

The Bottom Line: This humorously illustrated show more picture book shows kids that sometimes the best gifts are free. The authors present a fun approach to holiday etiquette that is appropriate for school or library storytime for kids ages 4 – 8. It includes a note to parents at the end about instilling good manners in your child during the holidays, and while this book is seasonal, the ideas for good manners can be used throughout the year.

This review also appears at the Mini Book Bytes Book Review Blog. show less

Reviewed by my son Samuel Peralta for Reader Views (9/08) (7 Years Old)

Emily’s favorite holiday is Christmas. She likes to sing carols and she likes to decorate presents. She gives regular presents, but she also gives more important presents. She is kind to her family and her friends. Emily enjoys helping other people. For example, she helps her mother set the table and her father decorate the Christmas tree. I liked the story because it reminds me of Christmas and that it is nice to help show more people. I also liked the pictures.

Parent Feedback: This is a wonderful story. I enjoyed this story just as much as my seven-year-old son did. In a time when the majority of kids are focused on material things, this story helps children understand the value of being kind and considerate. It is a simple story, yet it carries an important message. I love the illustrations; they are vibrant and fun to look at. I would recommend this book to all parents, teachers, and religious organizations that are looking for a fun book that teaches children values. I am going to read it to my other boys (ages 10-13), then I am ordering a copy for my nieces. show less