by Ogden Nash
Illustrated by Bridget Starr Taylor
The Adventures of Isabel 
is a whimsical story about a young girl that is fearless. When met with adversity, she devours it- quite literally! The story is simple and on the comprehension level of a mature toddler, but it is also peppered with larger words like “ravenous” and “cavernous” that not only add to the magical cadence when read aloud but also offer learning opportunities for older children. The illustrations are beautifully detailed and fascinating to look at. Every picture is filled with brilliant colors and texture. By including details not given in the story (like Isabel’s canine companion, the jar of cookies she takes from the bear’s house that remains with her in every scene thereafter, and the subtle background hints at the bear’s aeronautical ties) artist Bridget Starr Taylor not only bolsters the storyline with her illustrations but also adds to the fun quirkiness that springs from every page in this book.
is a whimsical story about a young girl that is fearless. When met with adversity, she devours it- quite literally! The story is simple and on the comprehension level of a mature toddler, but it is also peppered with larger words like “ravenous” and “cavernous” that not only add to the magical cadence when read aloud but also offer learning opportunities for older children. The illustrations are beautifully detailed and fascinating to look at. Every picture is filled with brilliant colors and texture. By including details not given in the story (like Isabel’s canine companion, the jar of cookies she takes from the bear’s house that remains with her in every scene thereafter, and the subtle background hints at the bear’s aeronautical ties) artist Bridget Starr Taylor not only bolsters the storyline with her illustrations but also adds to the fun quirkiness that springs from every page in this book. 
First published in the 1930’s, this poem is a classic example of Ogden Nash’s magical verse that has been capturing the imagination of children and parents for generations. Though an additional stanza was written in the 60’s, this edition was illustrated and published in 2008 with the poem preserved just as Nash had originally written it for his daughter Isabel almost eighty years ago. For an additional delight, listen to the story read by the author himself on the CD that comes with the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book as did my three year old daughter. However, if your little one is squeamish when it comes to child-gobbling witches, bears and giants you may want to save The Adventures of Isabel for when they’re a bit older. On the other hand, if danger and adventure keep your tot turning the pages, this book will never collect dust.
for when they’re a bit older. On the other hand, if danger and adventure keep your tot turning the pages, this book will never collect dust.
