Arthur

It's hard to believe but it's true. As of May 25, 2001 Arthur the Aardvark will see his 25th Anniversary. Aimed for children to middle grades, Arthur is a wholesome character available in a variety of children's products.

Arthur was introduced to us through the text and illustrations of Marc Brown. Marc thought up Arthur one evening while telling his son, Tolon, a bedtime story. Ever since his creation has been growing in popularity with children everywhere.

Starting as a book series in 1976, Arthur is an 8 year old aardvark in third grade. His friends and classmates are all different types of animals. They go through trials and tribulations like any other group of third graders, and are frequently plagued with the terrors of big brother or sister hood.

Other characters in the Arthur series include D.W. She is Arthur's four year old sister, and is a real handful. Recently D.W. and Arthur got another baby sister, and Arthur got a puppy he named Pal.

Arthur's best friend's are The Brain, Buster Baxter, Francine, Muffy, and Binky. They range from monkeys to rabbits and bulldogs too. In fact, humans are few and far between in Arthur's world.

While the book series is what got Arthur off his feet and into most classrooms across the United States, the TV show on PBS has brought him into most homes. Funny, and filled with dillemas, it demonstrates to children everything from how cheating only hurts you in the long run to stealing is wrong.

As most TV series, Arthur is now available on video. There are also a series of CD Rom games. Teacher's are encouraged to order the Arthur learning guide to encorporate Arthur into their classes. Children love Arthur and he encourages them to learn.

For Arthur's 25th Anniversary, children are being encouraged to take part in the website that is part of PBS online. You can find more information for the writing contest here http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/arthur/marc_brow...

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