Great Jones - Shop now
Buy used:
$9.97
Get Fast, Free Shipping with Amazon Prime
FREE delivery Monday, April 14 on orders shipped by Amazon over $35
Or fastest delivery Sunday, April 13. Order within 1 hr 25 mins
Used: Good | Details
Sold by Zoom Books Company
Fulfilled by Amazon
Condition: Used: Good
Comment: Book is in good condition and may include underlining highlighting and minimal wear. The book can also include From the library of labels. May not contain miscellaneous items toys dvds etc. . We offer 100% money back guarantee and 24 7 customer service. Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime!

Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) is a service we offer sellers that lets them store their products in Amazon's fulfillment centers, and we directly pack, ship, and provide customer service for these products. Something we hope you'll especially enjoy: FBA items qualify for FREE Shipping and Amazon Prime.

If you're a seller, Fulfillment by Amazon can help you grow your business. Learn more about the program.

Access codes and supplements are not guaranteed with used items.
Kindle app logo image

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

QR code to download the Kindle App

Follow the authors

Michelle Knudsen
Follow
Scott Magoon
Follow
Something went wrong. Please try your request again later.

Big Mean Mike Hardcover – Picture Book, August 14, 2012

by Michelle Knudsen (Author), Scott Magoon (Illustrator)
4.8 out of 5 stars 91 ratings
Editors' pick Best Books Ages 3-5
A laugh-out-loud funny story about not worrying what others think — even if you’re big and tough, and your friends are fuzzy and cute.

Big Mean Mike is the biggest, toughest dog in the whole neighborhood. He has a big, mean car that he likes to drive around the big, mean streets. Everyone knows that Mike is big and mean, and that’s just the way he likes it. But one day a tiny, fuzzy bunny shows up in his car. Mike can’t believe it! Before anyone can see, he puts the bunny down on the sidewalk and drives away. When the tiny, fuzzy bunny shows up again — and this time brings a friend — Mike tells them both to get lost. Big mean dogs do not hang out with tiny, fuzzy bunnies! But gosh, those bunnies sure are cute. . . . From best-selling author Michelle Knudsen and illustrator Scott Magoon comes a comical lesson about how keeping up your image is not nearly as fun as being your own quirky self.
  Report an issue with this product or seller
Previous slide of product details
  1. Reading age
    2 - 6 years, from customers
  2. Print length
    40 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Grade level
    Preschool - 3
  5. Lexile measure
    AD520L
  6. Dimensions
    10.13 x 0.4 x 10.63 inches
  7. Publisher
    Candlewick
  8. Publication date
    August 14, 2012
  9. ISBN-10
    0763649902
  10. ISBN-13
    978-0763649906
Next slide of product details
The%20Amazon%20Book%20Review
The Amazon Book Review
Book recommendations, author interviews, editors' picks, and more. Read it now

Editorial Reviews

Review

It’s rare to find a book that will appeal to both the lovers of monster trucks and the kids who go into raptures at the sight of a fuzzy little critter; this is that book.
—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)

Knudsen offers an uncompromisingly macho version of the defend-your-friends theme, and its cultural references (combat boots, gym membership) and the inherent humor in seeing the bunnies charm their way into Mike’s heart will keep readers attentive—and laughing.
—Publishers Weekly

Even the toughest readers will crumble under the appeal of these bunnies.
—Kirkus Reviews

Readers will fall for the adorable bunnies and cheer Mike’s new devotion to them. Share this doggedly worthy read-aloud during your favorite friendship-themed storyhours for a lot of growls and laughs.
—School Library Journal

Colorful illustrations are both appropriately tough and tender. Mean and cute not only do mix; they match in delightful ways.
—Library Media Connection

The eternal struggle between tough and tender gets a workout in this adorable book.
—Booklist

About the Author

Michelle Knudsen is the author of the New York Times best-selling picture book Library Lion, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes; Argus, illustrated by Andréa Wesson; and the fantasy novels The Dragon of Trelian and The Princess of Trelian. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Scott Magoon has illustrated several books for children, including If Waffles Were Like Boys by Charise Mericle Harper and Otto: The Boy Who Loved Cars by Kara LaReau. Scott Magoon lives near Boston, Massachusetts.

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Candlewick; Illustrated edition (August 14, 2012)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 40 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0763649902
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0763649906
  • Reading age ‏ : ‎ 2 - 6 years, from customers
  • Lexile measure ‏ : ‎ AD520L
  • Grade level ‏ : ‎ Preschool - 3
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.15 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 10.13 x 0.4 x 10.63 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.8 out of 5 stars 91 ratings

About the authors

Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Previous page
  1. Michelle Knudsen

    Michelle Knudsen

    Brief content visible, double tap to read full content.
    Full content visible, double tap to read brief content.

    Michelle Knudsen is the New York Times best-selling author of more than fifty books for young readers of all ages, including the award-winning picture book Library Lion, which was selected by Time magazine as one of the 100 Best Children's Books of All Time. Her other books include the picture book Marilyn's Monster (NPR's Best Books) and the novels The Dragon of Trelian (VOYA Top Shelf Fiction for Middle School Readers) and Evil Librarian (YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults and winner of the Sid Fleischman Humor Award). Her most recent title is Luigi, the Spider Who Wanted to Be a Kitten, illustrated by Library Lion illustrator Kevin Hawkes, and her new middle grade fantasy novel INTO THE WILD MAGIC will be coming in August 2025. Michelle also works as a freelance editor and is a member of the Writing for Young People MFA faculty at Lesley University. She lives with her family in Brooklyn, NY.

    See more on the author's page
  2. Scott Magoon

    Scott Magoon

    Brief content visible, double tap to read full content.
    Full content visible, double tap to read brief content.

    Scott Magoon is the illustrator of several acclaimed picture books, including the New York Times bestselling RESCUE & JESSICA: A LIFE-CHANGING FRIENDSHIP by Jessica Kensky & Patrick Downes, MISUNDERSTOOD SHARK series BY Ame Dyckman and the SPOON series by Amy Krouse Rosenthal. He is also the author/illustrator of the EXTINCTS series of graphic novels, LINUS THE LITTLE YELLOW PENCIL, BREATHE and THE BOY WHO CRIED BIGFOOT. He lives in Massachusetts. Visit him online at www.scottmagoon.com

    See more on the author's page
Next page

Customer reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
91 global ratings

Review this product

Share your thoughts with other customers
Write a customer review

Customers say

Customers find the book highly readable, with one mentioning it works well for class read-aloud sessions. The storyline is particularly appealing to preschoolers, with one customer noting how it teaches about befriending people. The illustrations receive positive feedback for their nice vivid pictures, and customers appreciate the book's message, with one highlighting how it conveys truths in simple ways.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Select to learn more

26 customers mention "Readability"26 positive0 negative

Customers find the book highly readable and enjoyable, particularly for children, with multiple customers noting it makes for multiple readings. One customer mentions it works well as a read-aloud in class.

"...Picture books, the best written ones, are beautiful in the way they convey truths in the most simplest of ways, that they share messages of love..." Read more

"...Nice vivid pictures, a limited amount of text so kids don't get lost, and different sizes of text to indicate emphasis. Exciting book for toddlers." Read more

"...confirmed that he will love it; she insisted that it is the most popular book in her first grade class room...." Read more

"...My kids love it - and so do I! It's funny, heartwarming, and the illustrations are adorable...." Read more

17 customers mention "Storyline"17 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the storyline of the book, finding it charming and suitable for preschoolers, with one customer noting it teaches about befriending people.

"...We sat down to read it right away and he listened to the whole story even though there were many distractions in the room at the time...." Read more

"...convey truths in the most simplest of ways, that they share messages of love and acceptance that can reach the hearts of even the most jaded and..." Read more

"...Nice vivid pictures, a limited amount of text so kids don't get lost, and different sizes of text to indicate emphasis. Exciting book for toddlers." Read more

"...Colorful and fun illustrations along with a sweet storyline about acceptance of others and being yourself. This is wonderful book!" Read more

16 customers mention "Illustrations"16 positive0 negative

Customers love the illustrations in this book, describing them as adorable and colorful with nice vivid pictures.

"...Picture books, the best written ones, are beautiful in the way they convey truths in the most simplest of ways, that they share messages of love..." Read more

"...Nice vivid pictures, a limited amount of text so kids don't get lost, and different sizes of text to indicate emphasis. Exciting book for toddlers." Read more

"...Once I received it, I read it myself as well. Colorful and fun illustrations along with a sweet storyline about acceptance of others and being..." Read more

"...It's funny, heartwarming, and the illustrations are adorable...." Read more

5 customers mention "Message"5 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's message, with one noting how it conveys truths in simple ways.

"...the best written ones, are beautiful in the way they convey truths in the most simplest of ways, that they share messages of love and acceptance..." Read more

"My 2.5 year old loves this book and I like the lessons it teaches...." Read more

"...It's funny and the lesson is subtle but clear. Tiny white bunnies are adorable! No matter how tough and mean you are." Read more

"...is so hard to find books for boys that are appealing and yet have a good message. Big Mean Mike is perfect for boys that are 5 or 6...." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • Cove32
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great Book
    Reviewed in the United States on December 27, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    I gave this book to my three year old grandson. We sat down to read it right away and he listened to the whole story even though there were many distractions in the room at the time. It was Christmas! I call that a win.
    Helpful
     Report
  • Kendra
    5.0 out of 5 stars Picture Books are for the young and the young at heart
    Reviewed in the United States on December 17, 2012
    Verified Purchase
    It says something about this book that I have now purchased two copies of it, one to gift to a child and the other for an adult. Picture books, the best written ones, are beautiful in the way they convey truths in the most simplest of ways, that they share messages of love and acceptance that can reach the hearts of even the most jaded and cynical of us.

    Big Mean Mike is not so mean, not really, and not espeically after bunnies, for whatever reason, invade his car.

    Over the days, Big Mean Mike, tries to get rid of them, but the bunnies multiply as bunnies are wont to do and he finds himself caring less and less about his image and more and more for the bunnies who have befriended him.

    My favorite scene is of the growling "grrr" bunny toward the end. Don't mess with bunnies.

    I am writing this review following a time of horrible tragedy for our country. It is December. The days are still getting shorter and shorter and the nights can seem to last forever.

    If you buy this book, read it to your children, but then take it aside and read it to yourself. Ease your heart. There are good and beautiful things in this world, things to cherish and protect.
    14 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Macan
    5.0 out of 5 stars SHHHHH--he's really a teddy bear
    Reviewed in the United States on September 23, 2012
    Verified Purchase
    I must admit I was hesitant to order this book as it sounded a little crass for toddlers. However, I was looking for a variety, and I took the chance. WAS I PLEASANTLY SURPRISED!!! Now I want a copy for each of my grandchildren.. The story about Mean Mike teaches children that all things are not necessarily as they seem on the outside. Mike appears to be a real toughie until he encounters a bunny, and then more bunnies. It demonstrates to children that being "themselves" really is the best choice in the end. Nice vivid pictures, a limited amount of text so kids don't get lost, and different sizes of text to indicate emphasis. Exciting book for toddlers.
    16 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Becki
    5.0 out of 5 stars First graders love this book!
    Reviewed in the United States on November 30, 2014
    Verified Purchase
    I was searching for a fun book for my nephew for Christmas and came across this. Another family member confirmed that he will love it; she insisted that it is the most popular book in her first grade class room. It can appeal to boys or girls, but it sounds like the boys like it best. Once I received it, I read it myself as well. Colorful and fun illustrations along with a sweet storyline about acceptance of others and being yourself. This is wonderful book!
    2 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Madeline's mom
    5.0 out of 5 stars Big Awesome Book!
    Reviewed in the United States on August 31, 2012
    Verified Purchase
    We are big fans of all of Michelle Knudsen's books in our house and Big Mean Mike is an awesome addition to our Knudsen collection!! My kids love it - and so do I! It's funny, heartwarming, and the illustrations are adorable. The kids loved looking for and counting the bunnies, and it's sweet to learn that Big Mean Mike, isn't so mean after all!
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • Tracy C Simeone
    5.0 out of 5 stars one of my favorite read aloud books
    Reviewed in the United States on September 10, 2018
    Verified Purchase
    This is a great book for a read aloud in class, especially if there are new students in the grade, or students feel they 'don't know anyone in their class'. The old adage 'don't judge a book by its cover' is the big take away, and understood from the perspective of Mike and the bunnies.
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • K Lo
    5.0 out of 5 stars Stand up for your friends
    Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2013
    Verified Purchase
    My four year old loves this book! It teaches her about befriending people who are not always popular with your friends. It teaches her about standing up for herself in a positive way. She loves the different voices that I make for the big, mean dog and references to the cute little bunny. The book can be a little lengthy for bedtime, but it's a favorite of both of us.
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • B. Jackson
    5.0 out of 5 stars A WINNER
    Reviewed in the United States on February 4, 2013
    Verified Purchase
    Kudos for Ms. Knudsen! This book is a winner and too cute for words! Even my husband liked it! It's for both girls and boys! I have a copy and gave a copy to my children's school library. An awesome read to younger children (depending on the child 3 to 4 years of age) to about 3rd grade. There is an AR test 3.0; Points 0.5.
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report

Top reviews from other countries

  • CGYRunner
    5.0 out of 5 stars Funny story about looking tough
    Reviewed in Canada on May 21, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    Bought for my 4 year old son, having enjoyed other books by this author. This was a great read for a 4-5 year old. There are pictures, but also more than one line of text per page, making the story a good length. Its a funny story about wanting to maintain image and be tough, instead of being honest about the things we really find cute. Great story, well illustrated, cute lesson, with funny imagery. My son enjoyed it and we've read it several times.
    Report
  • E. Blair
    5.0 out of 5 stars Everyone should own this book
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on April 30, 2020
    Verified Purchase
    I have read this book to my daughters and have read it for 8 years as a primary school teacher. The kids love it, and always ask to hear it again. It is funny, great illustrations, and it has a positive message. One of my favourite children's books.
    Report
  • Théo Charette
    5.0 out of 5 stars My boys love it. It is a repeat read
    Reviewed in Canada on November 3, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    We have had this book for awhile now. My boys love it. It is a repeat read.
    Report