A Hole Is To Dig and Open House for Butterflies

by Ruth Krauss, Maurice Sendak (Illustrator)

Two funny books about first definitions and good things.

Genres: Childrens, Picture Books

96 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 1989

About the author

Ruth Ida Krauss was an American writer of children's books, including The Carrot Seed, and of theatrical poems for adult readers.

Reviews

[Tiffany Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Denver Art Museum had an exhibit of Maurice Sendak. Of course I have and read ‘Where the Wild Things Are’ by him, but this book, A Hole Is To Dig, and Open House For Butterflies was an example of earlier art and written by Ruth Krauss. I read this to my daughter and we giggled, especially when we read, “One thing no good about a big brother is when you hit him he hits you right back.” Some of my favorite sayings, “A baby dances with its feet in the air,” or “Hands are to hold,” and “Arms are to hug with,” Figurative language, life anecdotes, imaginative phrases, piled into one cute book with brilliant comedic art by Sendak. Don’t be prepared for a story, or structured thoughts. This short book is like children, scattered fascination about how to love life.

[Christiana · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Mashed potatoes are for everyone to have enough.” I love this book :’)

[Kelly Holmes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute text and pictures, but more from a nostalgic angle than from a holds-my-baby's-interest angle.

[Robert Marsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pure joy.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorites from my childhood! Still as good today. 😊

[Readlucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderfully poetic. A hole to the heart.

[Peacegal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Krauss is a master of thinking how children think...coming up with definitions of words and explanations of the world that range from silly to surreal to profound.

[Edith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delight for all ages. The illustrations are endearing. I love it!