Books for Preschoolers - The Cheese

The Cheese
By Margie Palatini
Illustrated by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher

From the Preschool Book The Cheese

“The rat grumbled. ‘Oh, if you must know, I’m going to get the cheese.’
‘The cheese?’ said the cat. ‘You can’t do that. Everyone knows the cheese stands alone.’
‘Give me one good reason why the cheese stands alone.’
The cat thought. ‘Well…ummm…It’s the song,’ she said. “The cheese stands alone,” and that’s that.’
‘Well, I think it’s a silly song,’ said the rat, taking back his napkin. ‘And I’m going to eat that cheese.’”

About The Cheese

Margie Palatini’s The Cheese is a humorous take on “The Farmer in the Dell” nursery rhyme. One by one, the rat, the cat, the dog, the child, the wife, and finally the farmer challenge the silly rule that requires the cheese to stand alone. This picture book is listed as appropriate for ages 4-8, however, younger preschoolers will enjoy the story as well.

From the Reviewer – Charlene Haukom

“The cheese stands alone” is a phrase I’ve been using for as long as I can remember. Whenever I wanted a bit of privacy, I’d simply say, “No, no…the cheese stands alone on this one.” My friends would always ask, “Why does the cheese stand alone, anyway?” I never had an answer. Luckily, the characters in Margie Palatini’s The Cheese are more resourceful and come up with just the right solution for that lonely cheese.

About The Cheese’s Text

Though The Cheese isn’t written in verse, the subtle internal rhymes and witty text sweep you through the story. Each character has a distinctive voice, so parents, grandparents, and teachers can have fun reading this preschool book aloud.

The Cheese’s Detailed Illustrations

Every page of The Cheese explodes with color. Preschoolers love the hidden details, like words and music notes tucked away in the grass, and will occupy themselves for long periods of time searching for hidden items. As a longer story, the hidden details go a long way in holding younger preschoolers interest as you read the text.

About the Tone of The Cheese

Although The Cheese is witty and fun, it contains a useful message: If someone tells you to do something silly, don’t be afraid to question it. While a preschooler’s endless series of “why’s” can be maddening, sometimes it’s a very good question!

The Cheese’s Educational Opportunity

The Cheese is a great role-playing tool. Embrace the characters and have fun playing the hyper dog and sneaky rat, and encourage your preschoolers to role-play, too! As preschoolers switch from character to character, they’ll learn the behavioral traits included in the book.

Book Details

Title: The Cheese
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books (April 24, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0060526300
ISBN-13: 978-0060526306

---

Like this article? Get more like it in your inbox. Subscribe today to our free weekly newsletter.