Mercy is an incredibly likable character! He's hilarious, and takes on so much personification. Children will love his adventures and schemes! Mercy is very much like a child himself! This is quickly becoming a favorite of my son's. He asks for it repeatedly, as it's a story that never gets old. ( )

This audiobook was recommended on a blog I read. Despite being a fan of audiobooks, this is the first time listening to one for a young audience. The Mercy Watson series of books are one of my recommendations for children new to chapter books. It is a simple story. I like the way DiCamillo does not shy away from challenging words. Ron McLarty's narration is slow and deliberate. It gives the young listener a better chance to understand the underlying premise of Mr. and Mrs. Watston not having a clue about what goes on in Mercy's porcine brain. ( )

(This review is for the audiobook version.)

Despite the book's irresistibly cute cover art, I’d never read a Mercy Watson book before. I thought it was about time. And anyway, how can you go wrong with Kate Dicamillo?

Answer: You can't.

Despite the loss of Chris Van Dusen’s charmingly funny artwork featured in the print version, Mercy Watson still "clicks" as an audiobook. Upbeat intro music sets the stage and Ron McLarty's narration is a perfect fit, with kind of a retro feel to it - as if you're listening to a favorite old story that you've heard a thousand times before. (It's hard to believe that he's also the voice of books by David Baldacci, Danielle Steel and Stephen King!)

However, the best thing about Mercy Watson to the Rescue (the first book in the series), is Mercy herself. She may be a pig, but she's an awful lot like most children - when sent to find help to rescue her parents, she quickly forgets her mission and goes instead, in search of buttered toast! And when chased by mean neighbor, Eugenia, Mercy waits until Eugenia's good and close before she starts running. After all, it's all about the chase, isn't it? Mercy is simply delightful. I'm sorry I waited so long to find her.

What else do I love about the book?

- that calling the fire department is the solution of choice when one's bed has collapsed (I'm rather partial to firefighters)
- that Mercy's parents adore her unconditionally

Enjoy!
more @ http://www.shelf-employed.blogspot.com/2012/02/mercy-watson-to-rescue-review.htm... ( )

audio book, fun for the very young

Mercy Watson is a spunky pig owned by Mr. & Mrs. Watson. She's got a good heart and good intentions, but she is constantly getting into trouble. Luckily, things usually work out before Mr. & Mrs. Watson are even aware anything went wrong. Mercy is Curious George meets Dennis the Menace.

The audio recording was great and perfect family listening for families with small children. ( )