Such a fun and engaging book to read with children. They already have some prior recognition of the itsy bitsy spider. Pete is a recognizable character for the children, and to have that familiarity with him and the nursery rhyme! ( )

Friendship & perseverance

Easy reader text with corresponding illustrations.

Combined with a classic nursery rhyme/song using this book as part of them could easily leapfrom into reading extensions. ( )

The classic children's nursery rhyme about the "Itsy Bitsy Spider" who climbs up the water spout, only to be washed down by the rain, is given the "Pete the Cat" treatment in this latest addition to the booming children's book franchise. Watching their new friend attempting to climb again and again, Pete and his companions offer encouragement, eventually leading the arachnid to success...

I found myself thinking, as I read through Pete the Cat and the Itsy Bitsy Spider at work today, that there really isn't any reason for this series to continue. All of the recent titles have been substandard in quality, and while I have no doubt that determined young fans of Pete will enjoy this one, I found it distinctly annoying. The narrative incorporates portions of the traditional nursery rhyme, but just when the reader is getting into the classic rhythm, it's interrupted by the antics of Pete & co. The story itself isn't particularly involving, and the artwork, although colorful, is more of the same. Worst of all, the whole thing just feels like unnecessary coattail riding. ( )