“Pinkwater works narrative magic within the grammatical confines of the early reader format.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)With signature wit and whimsy, the inimitable Daniel Pinkwater introduces an eccentric, endearing babysitter every child will wish they could have. Welcome to the world of Mrs. Noodlekugel, where felines converse and serve cookies and tea, vision-impaired mice join the party (but may put crumbs up their noses), and children in search of funny adventures are drawn by the warm smell of gingerbread and the promise of magical surprises.
Stower’s illustrations have an old-fashioned sweetness, while Pinkwater, ever the effortless storyteller, adds just enough bite with his signature deadpan, loopy humor... Pinkwater works narrative magic within the grammatical confines of the early reader format—readers should find Mrs. Noodlekugel’s world delightful and instantly familiar, and look forward to future installments.
—Publishers Weekly (starred review)
Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle meets Mary Poppins.
—Kirkus Reviews
In novels and picture books we’ve seen Pinkwater in a variety of modes—absurd, satirical, anarchic, deadpan, funny-melancholy. In this offering, an early chapter book, we see yet another color in his palette: cozy... Stower’s pencil drawings perfectly echo the joyous insouciance of this benign—if surreal—backyard world.
—The Horn Book
Full of odd twists and amusing turns that will get new readers giggling. The cover art is so delicious readers will immediately pick this up and, when done, happily await the next Mrs. Noodlekugel adventure.
—Booklist
Told in 10 short chapters, this funny book has a good-size font and plenty of whimsical illustrations. It would be a good choice for children who have enjoyed Pinkwater’s previous works, and the likes of Roald Dahl.
—School Library Journal
This is a quick read that will bring smiles while bringing memories of Hansel and Gretel and The Gingerbread Boy; light-hearted to keep those younger readers turning the pages.
—Library Media Connection
Daniel Pinkwater does not deal in pathos but in nutty good humor, and he has pitched the gently zany tale of MRS. NOODLEKUGEL at 5- to-7-year-olds who are just getting confident with chapter books... With occasionally tricky vocabulary, such as "ventriloquist" and "sanitary," this is just the sort of book to make a young reader feel adept.
—The Wall Street Journal
Fans of Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle will adore Mrs. Noodlekugel, the latest invention from the curious mind of Daniel Pinkwater... Short chapters, abundant illustrations, and pointed repetition make this an ideal first chapter book. This funny, charming tale proves one needs look no further than his own backyard for adventure.
—Shelf Awareness
