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Madeline Series

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(9 reviews)

The Madeline series by Ludwig Bemelmans is a timeless classic that continues to charm readers, young and old. First published in 1939, these beautifully illustrated picture books follow the fearless little redhead Madeline, the smallest and most spirited of twelve girls living in a boarding school in Paris, overseen by the ever-patient Miss Clavel.

Told in cheerful rhyming verse, each story begins with the iconic lines: “In an old house in Paris that was covered in vines…” From Madeline’s emergency appendectomy to her encounters with tigers, gypsies, and even the Spanish ambassador’s son, the stories are full of gentle mischief and Parisian flair. But beneath the whimsy is a strong sense of courage, friendship, and kindness—qualities that have helped the books endure for generations.
Ludwig Bemelmans’ loose, expressive illustrations capture the charm of Paris in a way that feels nostalgic yet still accessible for modern readers. There’s a lovely balance of humour and heart, making the books ideal for sharing at bedtime or in the classroom. Children quickly warm to Madeline’s brave, no-nonsense attitude, and adults often find themselves just as captivated by the vintage style and gentle wit.

Perfect for ages 3 to 7, the Madeline books make a wonderful introduction to classic storytelling. They’re also an excellent choice for early discussions about empathy, resilience, and the joy of exploring the wider world. A truly special series that belongs on every child’s bookshelf.

All the Madeline books in order:

Book 1: Madeline (1939)
Book 2: Madeline’s Rescue (1953)
Book 3: Madeline and the Bad Hat (1956)
Book 4: Madeline's Christmas (1956)
Book 5: Madeline and the Gypsies (1959)
Book 6: Madeline in London (1961)

The following books were written by John Bemelmans Marciano, the grandson of Ludwig Bemelmans:

Book 7: Madeline in America and Other Holiday Tales (1999)
Book 8: Madeline Says Merci (2001)
Book 9: Madeline Loves Animals (2005)
Book 10: Madeline and the Cats of Rome (2009)
Book 11: Madeline and her Dog (2011)
Book 12: Madeline's Tea Party (2012)
Book 13: Madeline at the White House (2020)
Book 14: Madeline and the Old House in Paris (2013)
Book 15: Love From Madeline (2022)
Book 16: Madeline's 123 (2022)
Book 17:  Madeline's ABCs (2022)

Book 1
Book 1

Madeline's Rescue

Nothing frightens Madeline-not tigers, not even mice. With its endearing, courageous heroine, cheerful humor, and wonder... MoreMadeline's Rescue

Book 3
Book 3

Madeline in America: And Other Holiday Tales

While researching his famous grandfather's work, John Bemelmans Marciano made a thrilling discovery - a complete manuscr... MoreMadeline in America: And Other Holiday Tales

Book 5
Book 5

Madeline Loves Animals

Madelines says hello to a tiger, butterfly and even a mouse in this charming, boardbook edition! This charming, rhymi... MoreMadeline Loves Animals

Book 6
Book 6

Madeline's Christmas

  'In an old house in Paris that was covered in vines lived twelve little girls in two straight lines..... MoreMadeline's Christmas

Book 7
Book 7

Madeline In London

  A timeless classic picture book, loved throughout the world 'In an old house in Paris that was cov... MoreMadeline In London

(1 review) 4 1
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Book 8
Book 8

Madeline and the Bad Hat

'In an old house in Paris that was covered in vines lived twelve little girls in two straight lines...' A boy named Pepi... MoreMadeline and the Bad Hat

Book 9
Book 9

Madeline and the Gypsies

'In an old house in Paris that was covered in vines lived twelve little girls in two straight lines...' When Madeline an... MoreMadeline and the Gypsies

Book 10
Book 10

Madeline and the Cats of Rome

'From an old house in Paris that was covered in vines left twelve little girls in two straight lines...' It's chilly in ... MoreMadeline and the Cats of Rome

(1 review) 5 1
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Book 11
Book 11

Madeline's Tea Party

Madeline of Paris continues her adventures in this story of manners-now in Step into Reading, the premier leveled reader... MoreMadeline's Tea Party

Book 13
Book 13

Madeline and the Old House in Paris

To the ghost, Madeline said “Pooh-pooh.”  Madeline and her favorite companion in mischief, Pepito, embark on their wi... MoreMadeline and the Old House in Paris

Book 14
Book 14

Madeline at the White House

Bestselling and beloved Madeline visits the Oval Office!Readers will see Washington, D.C., as never before, when Madelin... MoreMadeline at the White House

Book 15
Book 15

Madeline

'In an old house in Paris that was covered in vines lived twelve little girls in two straight lines...' Something is not... MoreMadeline

(7 reviews) 4 7
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Book 16
Book 16

Madeline and Her Dog

Madeline of Paris continues her adventures--this time with her puppy! Now in Step into Reading, the premier leveled read... MoreMadeline and Her Dog

Book 17
Book 17

Love from Madeline

It’s the Valentine’s Day season and Madeline is ready to show the world what love means to her. From being brave to bein... MoreLove from Madeline

Book 18
Book 18

Madeline's ABCs

Come learn the ABC’s with the bravest girl in the world, Madeline! Ludwig Bemelmans’s beloved character Madeline is b... MoreMadeline's ABCs

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Recent Reviews

  • Madeline and the Cats of Rome

    Madeline and the Cats of Rome

    by Jrh

    Madeline is a film I loved as a child but I never got a chance to read the books so when one of the children brought Madeline and the Cats of Rome ove...

  • Madeline

    Madeline

    We had wanted this book for a while it having been recommended by a friend.  
    The illustrations are beautiful but do give a dark/eery feel to the sto...

  • Madeline In London

    Madeline In London

    This is a charming book with quaint pictures and quirky rhymes. Madeleine is a little girl who lives in Paris  with eleven other girls, and this one o...

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