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As reviewed on "KidStuff" on Martha Stewart Living Radio, Sirius 112, on November 21, 2006:

Topic: Manners

Stoo Hample's Book of Bad MannersStoo Hample's Book of Bad Manners
by Stoo Hample
All ages
0-7636-2933-2 HC $15.99
Candlewick Press
The Toy Hog. The Blabbermouth. The Food Face, the Belcher, and (shudder) the Nose Picker. They're all here, and more—a veritable rogues' gallery of the rudest, crudest, meanest manners found wherever children slurp, grab, desert the table, or cut in line. With his trademark retro artwork and hilarious running commentary, Stoo Hample teaches children good manners by example—of what not to do—and bolsters his case with a final broad hint that the reader who fails to take heed may soon be the star of a book just like this one. From the sultan of silly comes a comical, kid-friendly guide to avoiding naughty behavior.

Emily's Everyday MannersEmily's Everyday Manners
by Peggy Post and Cindy Post Senning, E.D.D.
Illustrated by Steve Bjorkman
Ages 4-7
0-0607-6174-1 HC $16.99
HarperCollins Children's Books
Join Emily and her best friend, Ethan, as they demonstrate how good manners aren't just for special occasions; they are for every day. This charming picture book from the most trusted name in etiquette introduces kids to five magic words that make everyone happy, gives tips on mastering good table manners, and offers good advice on how to make and keep friends. Manners have never been more fun and easy to learn.

Please Say Please! Penguin's Guide To MannersPlease Say Please! Penguin's Guide To Manners
by Margery Cuyler
Illustrated by Will Hillenbrand
Ages 3-5
0-5902-9224-2 HC $15.95
Scholastic Press
Rollicking text and a mischievous crew of playful animal guests make for an irresistible first guide to manners. Penguin is having a party, and his nine adorable animal guests aren't sure about their manners. When Lion is served cauliflower, he says, "I hate cauliflower. EW!" Is that right? No, he should say, "I'll try some. MMM, NOT BAD!" From one silly incident to another, Hippo, Elephant, et al learn where to put your napkin (not on your head), how to sip your milk (not spray it), and when to tell a joke (NOT when your mouth is full!). Proper Penguin's patience is sorely tried, but by the time they say good-bye, his young guests have even learned to say, "Thank you!" Is that right? Yes, that's right!

The Berenstain Bears Forgot Their Manners
by Stan and Jan Berenstain
Ages 5-8
0-394-87333-5 PB $3.99
Random House Children's Books
The Berenstain Bears offer an appealing introduction to manners in this charming picture book. School Library Journal says "When Mama Bear's efforts to improve her family's manners are unsuccessful, she devises a Politeness Plan—a chart listing a chore as a penalty for each act of rudeness. Basic etiquette is presented in a practical way. Berenstain illustrations add humor and understanding."

Badness for BeginnersBadness for Beginners
by Ian Whybrow
Illustrated by Tony Ross
Ages 5-9
1-5750-5861-8 HC $15.95
Carolrhoda Books/Lerner Publishing
This hilarious picture book takes an irreverent look at manners, with the endearing Little Wolf and his brother Smellybreff practicing the exact opposite of the manners all good children are supposed to demonstrate. Try as he might to be bad, poor Little Wolf sometimes ends up being good by mistake.