Old Mother Hubbard's Dog Learns to Play

Old Mother Hubbard's dog is up to no good, so she suggests he learn how to play. However, she hears an onslaught of terrible noises from the flute, cello, trombone, violin, and bagpipes, and is besieged by an onslaught of terrible noises. John Yeoman and Quentin Blake's nonsense poem is lively and humorous.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 24 pages
Publication date: 04 March 2021
Publisher: Walker Books Ltd

Old Mother Hubbard is fed up of her mischievous pup sitting about reading all day, so she suggests that he learn how to play. But then she hears the less than dulcet tones of the flute, the cello, the trombone, the violin, and even the bagpipes! What a terrible din! Long-suffering Old Mother Hubbard is besieged by an onslaught of terrible noises! Whatever can she do?

This lively and humorous nonsense poem is brilliantly written by John Yeoman and illustrated exuberantly by Quentin Blake. The poem tells the story of Old Mother Hubbard, who is frustrated with her mischievous pup, who is always reading instead of playing. She suggests that he learn how to play, but then she hears a cacophony of terrible noises coming from different instruments. The instruments include the flute, cello, trombone, violin, and bagpipes, which create a deafening din.

Old Mother Hubbard is overwhelmed by the terrible noises and wonders what she can do to stop them. She tries to shoo the pup away, but he is too quick and clever for her. She then tries to cover her ears with her hands, but the noise is too loud. Finally, she decides to take action and goes out to find the instruments.

She finds the flute, cello, trombone, violin, and bagpipes and takes them away. The pup is disappointed, but he soon realizes that he can still read and play with his toys. The poem ends with Old Mother Hubbard happily playing with her pup and the instruments, and the terrible din has finally subsided.

This poem is a great example of John Yeoman's wit and humor, and Quentin Blake's vibrant and colorful illustrations. It is a popular choice for reading aloud in classrooms and has been translated into many languages. The poem teaches children about the importance of playing and the consequences of not doing so. It also highlights the importance of listening to others and not making too much noise.

Weight: 118g
Dimension: 334 x 269 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781406395914