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WHEN YOU LUNCH WITH THE EMPEROR
Ludwig Bemelmans
2 STARS
Overlook, $24.95
WHILE this collection of "Madeline" author Bemelmans' stories isn't a total disappointment, it comes close due to poor structure. The first section contains quite a lot that appeared in the previous (and excellent) volume, "Hotel Bemelmans," about the author's beginnings at the fictional "Hotel Splendide." This makes it annoying for returning readers who were hoping for all-new material, and not the best introduction for new readers who need the background but won't be getting the finest stories. That said, the third section of the book, titled "Play," offers outstanding tales involving the author's peripatetic and adventurous later life. The best ones have to do with his demanding little daughter, Barbara, and his love of dogs, including the absolutely hysterical "Little Bit and The America," about smuggling a poodle aboard an ocean liner.
- Ruth Gutman
Copyright 2004 NYP Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved.
