I would like to speak highly of THE FIRST ADVENTURES OF THELMA THISTLE AND HER FRIENDS. This set of 4 booklets (from the 1st through the 4th Adventure) has absolutely delighted my 4 year-old grandson and have truly fascinated my 2 year-old granddaughter although I am not sure she can follow the story line, but the super clever illustrations keep her rapt attention. The author brings to life a whole "underground" wild flower and animal world and humanizes the characters she creates.
Even my 6- and 7-year old neighbor kids enjoyed the books although I overheard comments such as "I knew all about that" (but I noticed they continued reading all the booklets). Speaking from an adult viewpoint I am impressed that the booklets unabtrusely but effectively promote features that are so important for kids to learn - awareness and respect for family, the animal world and for nature in general. Also, as a retired editor I love the inclusion of vocabulary instruction. I have but one critical comment -- I wish the booklets were hard bound. The set I have has been well read and is now becoming rather battered from young hands.