I found a new favorite picture book on this Throwback Thursday. This might be something I say about all of our picture books. Maybe I’ll just say this is my new favorite picture book about manners.

What Do You Say, Dear?

1958

By Sesyle Joslin

Illustrated by Maurice Sendak

Published by Scholastic Book Services

3rd printing October 1965

“single copy price 35¢”

When I found the book, I admit, I picked it up right away because I saw Maurice Sendak’s name on the cover as the illustrator. This made me quite happy. But when I read the book I loved the words also. This really is what a great picture book is all about isn’t it? Great words with great pictures. I love how fun Sesyle Joslin made practicing manners. There is no room left for ordinary. Her words bring full imagination and lots of laughter.

It’s hard to pick out one favorite spread. I think I like them all, but I do want to share one with you so I’ll pick one for now…

 

“You are a dangerous pirate and you have captured a fine lady to take on your ship. Every morning when you untie her so she can eat breakfast, she says, “Good morning. How are you?”

“What do you say, dear?”

 

“This is the funniest book about manners you ever read!”