On Market Street

by Arnold Lobel
On Market Street cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Children's Fiction
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Technical
  • ID: 9764
  • Added: 2026-01-02
  • Updated: 2026-01-02
  • ISBN: 9781534468153
  • Publisher: Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books
  • Published: 2020-08-25
  • Reviews: 3

On Market Street is a celebrated picture book that takes readers on a unique shopping adventure. The story follows a young boy as he navigates a whimsical marketplace where each shopkeeper is creatively dressed in their merchandise, from gloves to wigs to oranges. The book is not only a delightful tale but also an imaginative journey through the alphabet, as the boy buys items for his special friend. /n/n The illustrations by Anita Lobel are inspired by 17th-century French engravings and bring the marketplace to life with vibrant and detailed imagery. The book has received numerous accolades, including a Caldecott Honor and a New York Times Best Illustrated Book, making it a must-read for children and adults alike.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2026-01-02
delightful 4.00

The book is described as delightful and unusual, with a boy buying presents for a friend, each starting with a letter of the alphabet. The illustrations are colorful and engaging.

This reviewer finds 'On Market Street' to be a delightful and unusual book. They appreciate the unique concept of a boy buying presents for a friend, each gift corresponding to a letter of the alphabet. The colorful illustrations are a highlight, offering a lot to see on every page. They believe it's a fabulous book for inquisitive and active minds, making it a great choice for young readers who enjoy interactive and visually stimulating stories.

Quick quotes

    In a delightful and unusual book, a boy trots down Market Street buying presents for a friend, each one starting with a letter of the alphabet.

    The colourful pictures with so much to see on every page.

    What a fabulous book for inquisitive, active minds.

School Library Journal · Kimberly · 2022-11-25
wonderful 4.50

The reissue of this classic book is a welcome return for young readers and their caregivers. The illustrations are detailed and engaging, making it a delightful read.

This reviewer is thrilled to see the reissue of 'On Market Street'. They find the book to be a marvelous addition to any young reader's collection, particularly praising the detailed and ingenious illustrations. The shopping spree depicted in the book is prefaced and ended with a sprightly rhyme, adding to the overall charm. They believe it will be a hit with both young lapsitters and their caregivers, making it a perfect choice for shared reading time.

Quick quotes

    A reissue that revisits such marvelous scenes will be welcome for young lapsitters and their caregivers alike.

    The shopping spree is prefaced and ended with a sprightly rhyme.

    The illustrations are detailed and ingenious.

First Thursday Book Reviews · 2021-09-08
brilliant 4.00

The book is praised for its brilliant illustrations and engaging poem that sets the stage for the shopping spree. The detailed artwork is a highlight, making it a visual feast.

This reviewer is captivated by the brilliant illustrations and the engaging poem that introduces the shopping spree. They find the detailed artwork to be a standout feature, creating a visual feast that keeps young readers engaged. The poem effectively prepares the reader for the adventure on Market Street, making it a delightful and immersive experience. They highly recommend it for its artistic and literary merits.

Quick quotes

    A poem telling that the child is stepping onto Market Street to see what they can buy prepares the reader for the brilliant illustrations of the book.

    The illustrations are detailed and ingenious.

    The book is a visual feast.

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