How Not to Babysit Your Brother

by Catherine Hapka, Ellen Titlebaum, Debbie Palen (Illustrator)

Will’s little brother, Steve, is big trouble. What happens when Will has to babysit? Steve’s over-the-top mishaps and Will’s attempts to get him under control are sure to keep kids reading—and laughing!—throughout this Step 4 book. Early readers with younger siblings are sure to relate.

Genres: Childrens

48 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

About the author

Catherine (Cathy) Hapka has written more than one hundred books for children and adults, as a ghostwriter for series as well as original titles, including the Romantic Comedies Something Borrowed, The Twelve Date of Christmas, and Love on Cue. She lives in Pennsylvania.

Reviews

[Jonathan Jasinski · Rating 4 out of 5]

My students enjoyed this one, and I figure that’s the most important thing with a children’s book. 3.5 stars, though, because the moral coulda been just a bit more obvious- share with your brother, or you’re in for a rough day! It’s actually pretty well-done as is, but my students didn’t really see the message until I pointed it out. Also, it’s implied the mom is mad at Will, which while humorous isn’t really the right message considering he did all he could. Friggin Grandma just fell asleep, wildly irresponsible on her part when she was there to babysit, so no one should be mad at Will for doing all he could to corral his crazy brother. Still, the humor is good, it has a moral, it taught the kids some solid English and they laughed at much of it, so I’ll round 3.5 up to 4.

[Carlie Raybuck · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the storyline of this book! It is perfect for children learning how to read. These Step into Reading books are perfect. This is a humorous book. Children could relate to this book very easily if they have a sibling. I used this book in my tutoring session. My students both have brothers. I am pretty sure they laughed at everything I read because they can relate to it. They loved all the detail in the illustrations too. It is a great book to introduce paragraphs and chapters.

[Myles · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is perfect for little kids! I loved it! Every comical for us adults but for a kid to learn what to do and what not to do when they have a sibling and their grandma falls alseep well lets just say this is a great learning path!

[Rachel Sides · Rating 5 out of 5]

I babysat for my grandsons recently and dosed off briefly in the recliner. Thankfully they didn't get into any trouble.

[Rose]

E Hap

[tony · Rating 4 out of 5]

that little brothers are wild

[carissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recommended Ages: grades 2-3

When Grandma falls asleep, Will finds himself responsible for his little brother Steve and discovers the hard way what not to do when in charge.

[Kate Hastings · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grades K-2. RL 400

[Dana Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great for students with a younger sibling. Students will be able to relate and have a conversation about this book.

[Wanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hilarious story and illustrations. Laugh out loud!

[Ian Dawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quick, fun read with valuable lessons regarding babysitting a younger sibling.