Mercer Mayer is famous for his classic Little Critter books. Infants, toddlers and young children around the world love his books. They are so popular they are available as board books, CD-ROMS and videos, too. Mayer uses the books to teach children life lessons.

One life lesson Little Critter learns is the value of relationships. There are five books which explore the special bonds in a person’s life. The five books depict special occasions with Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa and a close friend.

Just Me and My Mom

Little Critter and his mother spend a day together. It is just he and his Mom. They go to the city and visit The Art Museum, Aquarium and the Museum of Natural History. Although they have several mishaps and different views of what is important, the day is pleasant. This is a good picture book for children to read on Mother’s Day.


Just Me and My Dad

Little Critter and his Dad do some male bonding during a camping trip. There are the usual mishaps while setting up the tent, fishing for dinner and going to sleep. Yet, the special love the two males have for each other is quite obvious. This is a good book for children on Father’s Day,


Just Grandma and Me

The grandma takes little Critter to the beach. They set up a beach umbrella. It is almost blown away. Critter accidently drops the hot dogs. A wave washes his sand castle. After the mishaps, Grandma consoles the little boy. The grandma displays her love by the way she cares for the boy at the beach and later, the sleeping child on the bus. The picture book is good for Grandparent’s Day.


Just Grandpa and Me

Grandpa and little Critter go shopping in town. The grandson gets a new suit and tie like his grandpa. The two of them go to a Chinese restaurant and their food with chopsticks. Afterwards, the pairs see a scary movie. The critter says he is unafraid but sits close to Grandpa. The retelling of the day’s activities is so sweet. This is a good picture book for Grandparent’s Day.


Just My Friend and Me

Little Critter spends a day playing with his friend, Little Bear. Critter and his friend climb an apple tree, play in the tree house and race cars. The daredevils, Bear and Critter, get cuts and scrapes while playing on Critter’s new bike. The bike gets bent. Little Bear goes home at the day’s end. Critter declares it is great to be alone, but I’m sure he’ll invite over again. Friendship week is in February.


Each book is a retelling of the day from Little Critter’s point of view. Little Critter says one thing, but the cute illustrations display the other. Throughout all of the picture books, the strong affection between Critter and the others shine through. Share Mercer Mayer’s books with your Little Critter.





Picture Books for Children

I always imagined Paradise to be a....library. - Jorgelius Borges

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There are three more Mercer Mayer's books at the bottom. Use the links to find out what happens when Little Critter just doesn't want to go bed or clean his room.