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Madame Badobedah #1
Madame Badobedah
Who is Madame Badobedah? Mabel sets out to prove that an eccentric new hotel guest is really a supervillain in this witty storybook about an intergenerational friendship.
There's a strange new guest at the Mermaid Hotel -- a very old lady with a growly voice, bags stuffed with jewelry and coins and curiosities, and a beady-eyed pet tortoise. Mabel, whose parents run the hotel, is suspicious. Who is this "Madame Badobedah" (it rhymes with "Oo la la") who has come to stay indefinitely and never has any visitors? To find out, Mabel puts on her spy costume and observes the new guest. Conclusion? She must be a secret supervillain hiding out from the law. The grown-ups think Madame Badobedah is a bit rude -- and sad -- but when she invites "dahlink" Mabel for a cup of forbidden tea and a game of pirates, the two begin a series of imaginary adventures together, and Mabel realizes that first impressions can sometimes be very wrong.
There's a strange new guest at the Mermaid Hotel -- a very old lady with a growly voice, bags stuffed with jewelry and coins and curiosities, and a beady-eyed pet tortoise. Mabel, whose parents run the hotel, is suspicious. Who is this "Madame Badobedah" (it rhymes with "Oo la la") who has come to stay indefinitely and never has any visitors? To find out, Mabel puts on her spy costume and observes the new guest. Conclusion? She must be a secret supervillain hiding out from the law. The grown-ups think Madame Badobedah is a bit rude -- and sad -- but when she invites "dahlink" Mabel for a cup of forbidden tea and a game of pirates, the two begin a series of imaginary adventures together, and Mabel realizes that first impressions can sometimes be very wrong.
56 pages, Hardcover
Published October 3, 2019
4 people are currently reading
356 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Dahl
30 books92 followersSophie Dahl (born Sophie Holloway) is an English author, cookbook writer and former model. She was born in London, the daughter of actor Julian Holloway and writer Tessa Dahl. Her maternal grandparents were author Roald Dahl and actress Patricia Neal. Her paternal grandfather was actor Stanley Holloway. She was the inspiration for Sophie, the main character in her maternal grandfather's book The BFG.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
October 22, 2019
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Little Mabel’s parents own a Bed and Breakfast called The Mermaid Hotel. One day a new guest checked in with lots and lots of heavy luggage. She was an older woman with bright red lips and an awful attitude, Mabel called her Madame Badobedah.
Mabel thought there was something fishy about the woman and decided she would become a spy and find out if the new guest really was a ‘Super Villain’ and stop her plan for domination.
Madame Badobedah is a lovely, sweet book told in three parts. Mabel is used to there being lots of guests at her parent’s B&B but they normally only stay a night or two and are usually polite and don’t have lots of heavy luggage with them, they also don’t call her ‘Darlink’ instead of darling.
She decides she is going to find out what the new guest is up to and the first thing she does is to spy through the keyhole of room 32, where the woman is staying, she is surprised what she sees the woman removing from her bag, as well as seeing her crying.
One day Mabel is caught in the act but Madame Badobedah isn’t mad, she invites Mabel in for tea, but Mabel decides this is a good time to carry on her investigations and interrogate the woman.
The illustrations throughout bring the story to life and engage the reader. The creative nature of the book is delightful and I love how Ms. Dahl has brought together two very different characters, especially their ages and created this amazing imaginative story.
The only thing I’m not sure on is where this book fits into the children’s market as it is too long and has too much text to be a picture book, but it is a bit young for a middle-grade reader. Wherever it fits I can confirm the reader will be getting a real adventure of a story and one that will keep them hooked the whole way through.
Little Mabel’s parents own a Bed and Breakfast called The Mermaid Hotel. One day a new guest checked in with lots and lots of heavy luggage. She was an older woman with bright red lips and an awful attitude, Mabel called her Madame Badobedah.
Mabel thought there was something fishy about the woman and decided she would become a spy and find out if the new guest really was a ‘Super Villain’ and stop her plan for domination.
Madame Badobedah is a lovely, sweet book told in three parts. Mabel is used to there being lots of guests at her parent’s B&B but they normally only stay a night or two and are usually polite and don’t have lots of heavy luggage with them, they also don’t call her ‘Darlink’ instead of darling.
She decides she is going to find out what the new guest is up to and the first thing she does is to spy through the keyhole of room 32, where the woman is staying, she is surprised what she sees the woman removing from her bag, as well as seeing her crying.
One day Mabel is caught in the act but Madame Badobedah isn’t mad, she invites Mabel in for tea, but Mabel decides this is a good time to carry on her investigations and interrogate the woman.
The illustrations throughout bring the story to life and engage the reader. The creative nature of the book is delightful and I love how Ms. Dahl has brought together two very different characters, especially their ages and created this amazing imaginative story.
The only thing I’m not sure on is where this book fits into the children’s market as it is too long and has too much text to be a picture book, but it is a bit young for a middle-grade reader. Wherever it fits I can confirm the reader will be getting a real adventure of a story and one that will keep them hooked the whole way through.
September 1, 2021
Read for my 365 Kids Book challenge. You can see all the books on their own shelf.
Mabel, like Eloise, lives in a hotel. Well, it's called the Mermaid Hotel but it's really a bed and breakfast. Mabel is an only child who knows the secrets of all the rooms, and she quickly discovers that the new guest, Madam Badobedah, is an international jewel thief.
Rather more text than most picture books, I am a bit surprised they didn't go the other way and make it longer. The art is fun, so I wouldn't want less of it. Sadly the two cats and two dogs didn't get nearly enough attention, so I hope there will be a sequel or three.
Library copy
Mabel, like Eloise, lives in a hotel. Well, it's called the Mermaid Hotel but it's really a bed and breakfast. Mabel is an only child who knows the secrets of all the rooms, and she quickly discovers that the new guest, Madam Badobedah, is an international jewel thief.
Rather more text than most picture books, I am a bit surprised they didn't go the other way and make it longer. The art is fun, so I wouldn't want less of it. Sadly the two cats and two dogs didn't get nearly enough attention, so I hope there will be a sequel or three.
Library copy
January 3, 2025
I don't have a high opinion of modern children's books in general, but this one exceeded my expectations. A girl named Mabel who is living in the Mermaid Hotel meets a guest, an old lady whom she names "Madame Badobedah." Convinced that the old lady is a super spy, she sets out to prove her theory and instead of gaining evidence, gains something much more valuable.
Positives:
Imaginative: it was lacking subtlety but it was still enjoyable
Heartwarming: I was left with a curiosity of Madame Badobedah's past life and also how her realtionship with Mabel developed
Negatives:
I didn't feel that the story grew from the author's imagination, you know, in the way that good stories can have a life of their own. It felt like the story was growing from a planned framework ........ a good framework, but a framework nonetheless.
Why, oh, why do authors have to make children consistently bratty? I understand that children can be contrary at times but modern authors seem to think that it's cute for children act rude and edgy much of the time. There is nothing charming about this. In this case, the portrayal was not overdone, but there is still an essence of it.
The illustrations ....... I'm still not decided about this ......... while I think the choice and placement was well-done, I found the quality somewhat lacking. However, did they fit well with the story? ..... maybe. I'll have to think more about it.
In any case, this book was a nice surprise and I'm glad that I read it.
Positives:
Imaginative: it was lacking subtlety but it was still enjoyable
Heartwarming: I was left with a curiosity of Madame Badobedah's past life and also how her realtionship with Mabel developed
Negatives:
I didn't feel that the story grew from the author's imagination, you know, in the way that good stories can have a life of their own. It felt like the story was growing from a planned framework ........ a good framework, but a framework nonetheless.
Why, oh, why do authors have to make children consistently bratty? I understand that children can be contrary at times but modern authors seem to think that it's cute for children act rude and edgy much of the time. There is nothing charming about this. In this case, the portrayal was not overdone, but there is still an essence of it.
The illustrations ....... I'm still not decided about this ......... while I think the choice and placement was well-done, I found the quality somewhat lacking. However, did they fit well with the story? ..... maybe. I'll have to think more about it.
In any case, this book was a nice surprise and I'm glad that I read it.
July 30, 2020
Fun audiobook on my walk this morning. Can’t beat a children’s book for light entertainment. Beautifully read by author with great sound effects. All that was missing was the stunning illustrations.
December 31, 2019
Oh, what an utter delight!
I have no idea why I was so resistant to this book for so long, but I was.
Actually, I think it was the name of the book; it failed to capture my imagination. I thought it would be old-fashioned and quaint and the cover illustration only highlighted that misconception.
Fortunately, today, I had the time to pick this book up and look at it properly. And I was charmed, utterly and completely by Mabel, the Mermaid Hotel and her adventures within its walls.
It was far from the quaint, old-fashioned idea that I had first thought. It was, in fact, imaginative, funny and a little bit sassy. It was as transformative for me as it was for Mabel and Mrs B.
A delight on every page, with lyrical writing and illustrations that slowly grew on me. The longer story form is perfect for emerging readers or as an enchanting read aloud with your favourite grown up.
I have no idea why I was so resistant to this book for so long, but I was.
Actually, I think it was the name of the book; it failed to capture my imagination. I thought it would be old-fashioned and quaint and the cover illustration only highlighted that misconception.
Fortunately, today, I had the time to pick this book up and look at it properly. And I was charmed, utterly and completely by Mabel, the Mermaid Hotel and her adventures within its walls.
It was far from the quaint, old-fashioned idea that I had first thought. It was, in fact, imaginative, funny and a little bit sassy. It was as transformative for me as it was for Mabel and Mrs B.
A delight on every page, with lyrical writing and illustrations that slowly grew on me. The longer story form is perfect for emerging readers or as an enchanting read aloud with your favourite grown up.
March 11, 2020
One day, when I was a little girl, I was waiting for my Mum to get ready so we could leave the house for something or the other. I was flicking through the channels on the television, apparently in lack of better things to do, when I stumbled upon this cooking show with a woman that utterly transfixed me. I don’t know why this was, but I was fascinated with this woman with the big eyes and the warm smile. This was a long time ago, so my comprehension of English was extremely poor, so I could not understand a word she was saying – nor had I showed any prior interest in cooking. But I was captivated none the less, and when my mum told me that her name was Sophie Dahl and that she was the granddaughter of my absolute favourite author, I loved her even more. From then on, I would watch every episode, now with my mum or my grandmother translating for me along the way.
Fast forward till last year, when this beauty of a children’s book was published. I was so intrigued, that I finally gave in and treated myself to it with a gift voucher I was given at Christmas. And my gosh, is it wonderful! The story is funny and endearing, as well as mischievous and entertaining, and I know I would have loved both Mabel and Madame Badobedah just as much had I read it as a child. Miss Dahl’s story along with Lauren O’Hara’s illustrations is truly a treat. I love the colour palette as well as O’Hara’s artwork, and would not mind one bit moving into The Mermaid Hotel myself. (Also, the pattern and the yellow spine of the naked hardback! – *chef’s kiss*)
Would recommend this book to all mermaid and adventure loving children, as well as their respected adults.
All of the stars!!
Fast forward till last year, when this beauty of a children’s book was published. I was so intrigued, that I finally gave in and treated myself to it with a gift voucher I was given at Christmas. And my gosh, is it wonderful! The story is funny and endearing, as well as mischievous and entertaining, and I know I would have loved both Mabel and Madame Badobedah just as much had I read it as a child. Miss Dahl’s story along with Lauren O’Hara’s illustrations is truly a treat. I love the colour palette as well as O’Hara’s artwork, and would not mind one bit moving into The Mermaid Hotel myself. (Also, the pattern and the yellow spine of the naked hardback! – *chef’s kiss*)
Would recommend this book to all mermaid and adventure loving children, as well as their respected adults.
All of the stars!!
February 5, 2020
This is a funny book with an interesting story of an unlikely friendship that shows just how children’s imagination can go over the top. ‘Madame Badobedah’ is about A4 in size and is filled with thick matt pages of both text and colourful illustrations. The hardback features a lovely cover hidden under the dust jacket. Mabel lives at the Mermaid Hotel, a hotel that’s really just a bed and breakfast which her parents run. One day a new guest arrives at the hotel and to Mabel, she looks like a supervillain. So Mabel sets about spying on the old woman, to find out exactly why she’s staying at the hotel and what she’s going to do.
The story is very imaginative and is written in a different way to a lot of stories. Mabel talks to us directly and the way she narrates is very much the way a child talks or thinks. Like many children with an overactive imagination, Mabel gets the wrong idea about Madame Badobedah, but when she’s caught by the old woman one day, spying outside her room, she’s invited in and an interesting friendship begins. The story continues with us finding out more about the guest, we find out more about who she really is and something about her past but throughout it all there are moments when Mabel’s imagination take over and she and Madame Badobedah are doing things like sailing the sea in a ship or making their way to a secret location beyond a cupboard. The story really shows just how children can turn any place they are in, into an immaginary world. I can still remember doing that when I was young, even involving my mum in my imaginative world, so I can see how well this is depicted here.
There are illustrations throughout the story and they are very good. I love how expressive Mabel looks and the way she is shown spying and looking suspiciously at Madame Badobedah. There’s something about these illustrations I really do enjoy, I’ve seen O’Hara’s work in another book before and I really liked it but this one is so colourful and so immaginative I like it even more and it fits really well with the story. I’m sure many children will enjoy these pictures too.
This book is quite funny and although the ending is a nice one, it did feel a bit odd to me. I’m not sure why, but the story ends in a way that just feels a bit too flat for me, too fast, like I was expecting a little more to happen. It felt like it could have had more but just stops. Mabel continues to see Madame Badobedah the same way right to the end, although a lovely friendship has occurred in the meantime, she still doesn’t change her view of her as a supervillain. Although I do think I would have liked looking at this book as a child myself, I really like the illustrations, the story’s end is just not one that I enjoyed so much and I’m not sure I would have personally enjoyed it as much as some have.
-Thanks to Walker Books for a free copy for review.
The story is very imaginative and is written in a different way to a lot of stories. Mabel talks to us directly and the way she narrates is very much the way a child talks or thinks. Like many children with an overactive imagination, Mabel gets the wrong idea about Madame Badobedah, but when she’s caught by the old woman one day, spying outside her room, she’s invited in and an interesting friendship begins. The story continues with us finding out more about the guest, we find out more about who she really is and something about her past but throughout it all there are moments when Mabel’s imagination take over and she and Madame Badobedah are doing things like sailing the sea in a ship or making their way to a secret location beyond a cupboard. The story really shows just how children can turn any place they are in, into an immaginary world. I can still remember doing that when I was young, even involving my mum in my imaginative world, so I can see how well this is depicted here.
There are illustrations throughout the story and they are very good. I love how expressive Mabel looks and the way she is shown spying and looking suspiciously at Madame Badobedah. There’s something about these illustrations I really do enjoy, I’ve seen O’Hara’s work in another book before and I really liked it but this one is so colourful and so immaginative I like it even more and it fits really well with the story. I’m sure many children will enjoy these pictures too.
This book is quite funny and although the ending is a nice one, it did feel a bit odd to me. I’m not sure why, but the story ends in a way that just feels a bit too flat for me, too fast, like I was expecting a little more to happen. It felt like it could have had more but just stops. Mabel continues to see Madame Badobedah the same way right to the end, although a lovely friendship has occurred in the meantime, she still doesn’t change her view of her as a supervillain. Although I do think I would have liked looking at this book as a child myself, I really like the illustrations, the story’s end is just not one that I enjoyed so much and I’m not sure I would have personally enjoyed it as much as some have.
-Thanks to Walker Books for a free copy for review.
May 19, 2020
This is sheer delight to read. You must read it aloud to a child or group of children who will certainly listen with rapt attention. Mabel is a precocious child and is the daughter, only child, of the owners of the Mermaid Hotel.
The hotel is Mabel's home, her playground, her fascination. And Mabel is fascinated or consumed with being a quirky, vocal, spying imp that is everywhere finding things and doings that fascinate her and of which she forms far-flung opinions of who, what, when, where.
And Mabel spies on Madame Badobeday and determines that she is an ancient (hint - old lady) spy who is currently hiding from those whom she has spied upon. The conclusion is simply she awaits her next assignment.
The story is in three sections and would make great read aloud sessions to build the suspense. Or your older youngish reader will be enthralled to read it all by themselves. It is a lot of fun reading about just who Madame Badobedah is (or was) and discovering about all the fascinating, odd, and beautiful items she has. Meanwhile, quirky, inquisitive Mabel is a darling going about in her inquisitive manner ferreting out information.
The real charm of the book is the multi-generational friendship that forms between the two. How a child can grow to like (even love?) an older, non-family person who is at the sunset moment of their life and needs someone to care is a gold nugget to pass along to children.
This book is a winner.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
The hotel is Mabel's home, her playground, her fascination. And Mabel is fascinated or consumed with being a quirky, vocal, spying imp that is everywhere finding things and doings that fascinate her and of which she forms far-flung opinions of who, what, when, where.
And Mabel spies on Madame Badobeday and determines that she is an ancient (hint - old lady) spy who is currently hiding from those whom she has spied upon. The conclusion is simply she awaits her next assignment.
The story is in three sections and would make great read aloud sessions to build the suspense. Or your older youngish reader will be enthralled to read it all by themselves. It is a lot of fun reading about just who Madame Badobedah is (or was) and discovering about all the fascinating, odd, and beautiful items she has. Meanwhile, quirky, inquisitive Mabel is a darling going about in her inquisitive manner ferreting out information.
The real charm of the book is the multi-generational friendship that forms between the two. How a child can grow to like (even love?) an older, non-family person who is at the sunset moment of their life and needs someone to care is a gold nugget to pass along to children.
This book is a winner.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
October 15, 2019
Mabel is a little girl who lives in a Bed and Breakfast run by her Mum and Dad. One day, a new guest enters the B&B. An older woman that Mabel calls Madame Badobedah, she is, (in Mabel’s eyes) clearly a villain, so to prove she's a spy she gathers evidence and one day, after being caught peeking through the key hole outside Madame Badobedah’s room Mabel is invited in for tea. Mabel asks lots of questions, trying to catch her out, we learn more and more about the mysterious Badobedah. This is a lovely illustrated book with lots of adventures and sparkly times. I will be buying this for my God-daughter and I'm sure we will re-read it time and time again. Well done Sophie Dahl a lovely children's book.
January 14, 2020
Mm, still not sure what to think of this one. The art is gorgeous (for reals, I could stare at it forever), I loved seeing the old lady and Mabel bond together. BUT I wasn't a fan of Mabel all the time. I found it rude and NOPE that she was snooping and spying on an older lady. I don't care that the lady is rude, I don't care that she is mysterious. You just don't snoop all the time on that lady.
The story did get better as the two of them bonded, had adventures with tons of imagination, shared stories, and more. However, I was still not happy that Mabel kept calling the woman a villain (thankfully, mostly in her head).
But the art. Holy wow.
Still happy I had a chance to read this book.
The story did get better as the two of them bonded, had adventures with tons of imagination, shared stories, and more. However, I was still not happy that Mabel kept calling the woman a villain (thankfully, mostly in her head).
But the art. Holy wow.
Still happy I had a chance to read this book.
March 3, 2021
I wished for this book to last a little longer. I was drawn in to Mabels imagination of this interesting woman to cross the thresholds of her bed and breakfast home.
Taken from a child's perceptions and her wonderfully imaginative mind, Sophie created a lovely heart warming story, but leaves you very curious at the end about this lady and her past life.
A beautiful short story which spans over a brief stay right by the sea.
Taken from a child's perceptions and her wonderfully imaginative mind, Sophie created a lovely heart warming story, but leaves you very curious at the end about this lady and her past life.
A beautiful short story which spans over a brief stay right by the sea.
November 7, 2019
It's super cute and very charming. I adore it!
The illustration and the story goes really well!
If you're looking for a Christmas gift for your kids and the young ones, even an adult, this one would really make a wonderful gift :D
The message, the story is so much fun and yet warm your heart <3
The illustration and the story goes really well!
If you're looking for a Christmas gift for your kids and the young ones, even an adult, this one would really make a wonderful gift :D
The message, the story is so much fun and yet warm your heart <3
January 20, 2020
The most fantastic description of a hotel guest in living history.
January 12, 2022
My kids were laughing a bunch! We really enjoyed reading it and the illustrations are adorable!
March 1, 2023
Very funny and imaginative.
March 22, 2025
this was soooo mf cute
August 9, 2025
I will read anything set in a hotel.
This was fun, fantastical, and sweet.
I just wish she had a different name because my mind cannot make Badobedah work.
This was fun, fantastical, and sweet.
I just wish she had a different name because my mind cannot make Badobedah work.
November 1, 2019
This is a lovely, well-written story of friendship, imagination and quiet adventure. Expert chacterisation coupled with a concise, yet eloquent descriptive text make it a book that is impossible to put down once started. Heart-warming and quirky, there is wonderful warm insight as the friendship between these two generations grows, highlighting the interest and compassion Mabel and Madame Badobedah develop towards each other. The gentle humour rolls throughout the story as our two friends embark on amazing, whimsical adventures together. And what makes this story shine all the more are the wondrous illustrations. Free, vibrant and expressive, they echo the story perfectly. A wonderful story to read aloud, or for readers of any age who simply want a story to curl up and escape into. Simply wonderful.
April 26, 2020
What a beautiful and special picture book about a young girl named Mabel who lives with her parents at a quirky B&B called The Mermaid Hotel. One day, an old woman with a gravelly arrives to stay in room #32 with heavy suitcases filled with jewels, coins, and curios. Naturally, Mabel is suspicious - this cranky old woman has all the trappings of a super villain. She even feeds her beady-eyed pet tortoise bananas - YUCK! Mabel concludes that she needs to spy on Madame Badobedah (not her real name, just the best sinister super-villain name that Mabel could think up) for the safety of the world. Though the grown-ups at The Mermaid Hotel find Madame Badobedah a bit rude, one day she invites Mabel in for a cup of tea and a game of pirates. As the two become friends, Mabel realizes the folly of first-impressions.
Sophie Dahl's first book for children is a truly special one indeed. If the cover hasn't already tipped you off, this is the kind of book that celebrates quirky children and inter-generational friendships. Careful text transforms what might be the sadness of senescence into a glamorous and joyful adventure. Retro-feeling illustrations and considerate details (Madame wears Shalimar, of course) are sure to make this a favorite to pore over for years to come. A lengthy picture book, but well-worth taking the time to savor.
Sophie Dahl's first book for children is a truly special one indeed. If the cover hasn't already tipped you off, this is the kind of book that celebrates quirky children and inter-generational friendships. Careful text transforms what might be the sadness of senescence into a glamorous and joyful adventure. Retro-feeling illustrations and considerate details (Madame wears Shalimar, of course) are sure to make this a favorite to pore over for years to come. A lengthy picture book, but well-worth taking the time to savor.
April 30, 2021
I liked this book, but it confused me. It's a picture book, but its about seven times as wordy as a typical picture book, coming in at over 3,600 words. I like the friendship between the two characters, but even with all that text, I felt like the characters weren't developed enough. There is a lot to infer about Madame Badobedah, but at a level that I think only an adult reader could do successfully. Maybe the kid reader would get enough from the child in the story to make it magical for them while the adults can snicker to themselves about what is really going on. It's full of very high-level vocabulary, making it best as a read aloud. I was shocked that my 7yo liked it as much as she did. I'm also shocked that this book is Blackwell's first book for children. Her adult career must be pretty successful if she was allowed to break so many picture book rules on her first go. So often I can compare a book to other picture books, but the best I can do here is to call it A Gentleman in Moscow, but for kids. Strange, right?
December 22, 2024
So the fun and lively illustrations definitely make this book feel like a picture book for young kids, but it's too wordy for that age group, and yet there's not enough meat for an older reader. There's also a lot that's left unanswered and so the end is quite unsatisfying. But there are some lovely moments and the illustrations are beautiful.
However, I'm not sure about the whole befriending a child without her parents around, and playing in the woman's room and even in her bed. I know there's nothing at all sinister about it, it just felt a bit odd. And whhhy did we have on the page depicting what is cool about the house illustrations of someone shaving their legs in the bath, two topless men boxing and a woman painting a man posing naked (with a carefully placed vase in front). The character was talking about the house, not it's naked guests!!!
On the whole, it just didn't seem to quite come together as a story. But I love the illustrations!
However, I'm not sure about the whole befriending a child without her parents around, and playing in the woman's room and even in her bed. I know there's nothing at all sinister about it, it just felt a bit odd. And whhhy did we have on the page depicting what is cool about the house illustrations of someone shaving their legs in the bath, two topless men boxing and a woman painting a man posing naked (with a carefully placed vase in front). The character was talking about the house, not it's naked guests!!!
On the whole, it just didn't seem to quite come together as a story. But I love the illustrations!
March 16, 2020
A story in 3 parts
Mabel is an only child and she lives the Mermaid Hotel where he dad is the manager and her mom is the "boss". Mabel is a keen observer of all things and people. When a feather-clad, mature guest with a growly voice arrives with a heavy suitcase, the curious Mabel, names her "Madame Badobedah". The guest is assigned to Room 32, a room with a secret, Mabel's curious but, not allowed to enter a guest's room so she becomes - Mabel the Spy and she comes up with a theory, Madame B is a super-villain!
First and second grade readers will enjoy the visual and challenges that this charming book offers. This book is a funny, engaging and imaginative story of friendship. Wonderful, fun illustrations as well.
Mabel is an only child and she lives the Mermaid Hotel where he dad is the manager and her mom is the "boss". Mabel is a keen observer of all things and people. When a feather-clad, mature guest with a growly voice arrives with a heavy suitcase, the curious Mabel, names her "Madame Badobedah". The guest is assigned to Room 32, a room with a secret, Mabel's curious but, not allowed to enter a guest's room so she becomes - Mabel the Spy and she comes up with a theory, Madame B is a super-villain!
First and second grade readers will enjoy the visual and challenges that this charming book offers. This book is a funny, engaging and imaginative story of friendship. Wonderful, fun illustrations as well.
November 2, 2023
Mabel's parents run a Bed-and-Breakfast, and Mabel helps out. Sometimes she might spy on the guests through the keyholes. (She might also pick her nose and wipe it on the wall; it is a bad habit just like spying on the guests.) Mabel is sure the newest guest is a supervillain in disguise! Why else would she act so strangely? No one hides coins in a sock under their bed! No one has a suspicious pet tortoise. No one calls people "darlink." Mabel investigates Madame Badobedah and finds a possible strange new friendship. Heavy on text and wonderful pictures, I liked this but didn't love it. This is just me today and not the book's fault.
July 3, 2025
A new guest has come to Mabel's hotel, the Mermaid Hotel. The new guest is mysterious and old and quite rude, Mabel thinks. Mabel is quite certain she's a villain, on the run, and she's determined to watch her. But when she does, she learns that the new guest has a kind and imaginative side, too.
A very unique story with very unique characters. I like Mabel and Madame Badobedah and the Mermaid Hotel very much.
A very unique story with very unique characters. I like Mabel and Madame Badobedah and the Mermaid Hotel very much.
February 18, 2022
Mabel is a curious girl with a BIG imagination who loves adventure. She and her parents run a bed and breakfast. One day a very interesting lady arrives, Madame Badobedah. Madame says things like "Darlink" and she calls Mabel a "frightful child". Mabel does not like Madame and is certain she is up to something nefarious. So, she starts a secret investigation. This is a delightful story of two kindred spirit who, despite differences, were destined to be friends.
October 6, 2020
“I am prehistoric and I don’t think my bones have woken up yet.”
A picture book with chapters is a rare, and in this case, utterly lovely thing. I have read more books about intergenerational friendships lately, and this one just sings. Mabel and Madame Badobedah are villains, pirates, mermaids, and simply fantastic.
A picture book with chapters is a rare, and in this case, utterly lovely thing. I have read more books about intergenerational friendships lately, and this one just sings. Mabel and Madame Badobedah are villains, pirates, mermaids, and simply fantastic.
January 11, 2026
The physical book is beautiful, the audiobook read by Sophie is a delight!
October 3, 2020
A little eccentric, a little sentimental. Sweet illustrations but just short of a ringer for me.
January 13, 2024
Well, Sophie Dahl suddenly keeps surprising me! First 'The Worst Sleepover in the World' and now this. What a positive new outlook - and reading - to start 2024 on! Maybe I'm more into Ms Dahl's children's picture books than anything else by her. These are wonderful, unique, and deep.
I love the colourful, cartoony illustrations by Lauren O'Hara, too; I've always admired her work, collaborating with her sister, Natalia O'Hara.
'Madame Badobedah' (I keep thinking "da-ba-dee-da-ba-die" whenever I read that) is sure to become a classic. It is a funny, sweet, creative, introspective, and even a little sad tale, set in a hotel (the Mermaid Hotel!) by the seaside. It is a mystery detective story, as well as a slice-of-life comedy, and magical realism. It is about not judging people before getting to know them, not jumping to conclusions, how imagination is a good thing but you mustn't let it get away with you and think negative things, and an unlikely friendship - between a mysterious rich old woman who seems to have everything and have been everywhere, and a young wannabe-spy girl, who is flawed like all children are.
Little Mabel's parents own the Mermaid Hotel. It is her home and whole life. She becomes suspicious of, and fascinated by, a stuffy, rude, private woman who shows up one day with dozens of suitcases and jewellery, and some pets. Mabel calls her Madame Badobedah, and a Villainess. Who is she? Is she in hiding? How long does she intend to stay at her beloved hotel? Mabel is sure the unusual guest is a criminal. Investigation time!
Read 'Madame Badobedah' to find out more. It grows into a heartwarming series of holiday-like snapshot pictures of... but I'm getting ahead of myself. Just read it.
A beautiful, crystalising friendship, and a fast tortoise, dogs, cats, oh and mermaids and pirates - these are all included in 'Madame Badobedah'. I can't recommend it enough. Ms Dahl clearly wrote this for adults as well as children. It is meant to transcend age, and age gaps. Anyone can live life to the full, and tell their relatable experiences to others, and be imaginative and creative, and play.
No one can truly be alone. They mustn't be alone, no matter how old they get, and life and people keep drifting further away from them.
Final Score: 4/5
I love the colourful, cartoony illustrations by Lauren O'Hara, too; I've always admired her work, collaborating with her sister, Natalia O'Hara.
'Madame Badobedah' (I keep thinking "da-ba-dee-da-ba-die" whenever I read that) is sure to become a classic. It is a funny, sweet, creative, introspective, and even a little sad tale, set in a hotel (the Mermaid Hotel!) by the seaside. It is a mystery detective story, as well as a slice-of-life comedy, and magical realism. It is about not judging people before getting to know them, not jumping to conclusions, how imagination is a good thing but you mustn't let it get away with you and think negative things, and an unlikely friendship - between a mysterious rich old woman who seems to have everything and have been everywhere, and a young wannabe-spy girl, who is flawed like all children are.
Little Mabel's parents own the Mermaid Hotel. It is her home and whole life. She becomes suspicious of, and fascinated by, a stuffy, rude, private woman who shows up one day with dozens of suitcases and jewellery, and some pets. Mabel calls her Madame Badobedah, and a Villainess. Who is she? Is she in hiding? How long does she intend to stay at her beloved hotel? Mabel is sure the unusual guest is a criminal. Investigation time!
Read 'Madame Badobedah' to find out more. It grows into a heartwarming series of holiday-like snapshot pictures of... but I'm getting ahead of myself. Just read it.
A beautiful, crystalising friendship, and a fast tortoise, dogs, cats, oh and mermaids and pirates - these are all included in 'Madame Badobedah'. I can't recommend it enough. Ms Dahl clearly wrote this for adults as well as children. It is meant to transcend age, and age gaps. Anyone can live life to the full, and tell their relatable experiences to others, and be imaginative and creative, and play.
No one can truly be alone. They mustn't be alone, no matter how old they get, and life and people keep drifting further away from them.
Final Score: 4/5
November 2, 2020
Madame Badobedah is Sophie Dahl’s first book for children and it is beautiful.
Mabel lives at the Mermaid Hotel. A fabulous place that overlooks the sea and Mabel likes nothing more than exploring and adventuring the rugged coastline. The hotel has welcomed all manner of guests over the years, each leaving their own stories and memories behind that Mabel now refers to as the hotel’s secrets.
One day, the most unusual guest arrives. The lady stood at the front desk is old, rude and is wearing bright red lipstick. Nothing too unusual about that. What is unusual is all the pets that she has with her and the remarkable number of suitcases. Never mind being on holiday, the new guest looks like she is moving in to the Mermaid Hotel! Mabel has seen enough guests to know that the new arrival is a bit odd. Madame Badobedah (not her real name but does rhyme with ooooh la la) has an assortment of unusual possessions, never goes out and no-one knows her real name. So Mabel sets out to put her expert ‘spying’ skills into action and prove that Madame is a supervillain who is on the run from the police…
Madame Badobedah is a lovely read that explores the power of imagination and the wonders of friendship. The two female protagonists are at very different stages of their lives but this does not matter as the young girl and old lady prove that age is no barrier to friendship as the most unlikely of bonds blossoms. The times they share together are playful and imaginative, from hanging out with mermaids to sailing away on pirate ships. By the end, the reader will want to give Madame Badobedah a big hug as her own story is unveiled and shows that we should never be too quick to judge others.
Dahl’s text is poetic and the soft watercolour illustrations by Lauren O’Hara are wonderful. In the hardback edition of this book, the pages are thick and it just adds something extra to this already special book.
Recommended for 6+.
Mabel lives at the Mermaid Hotel. A fabulous place that overlooks the sea and Mabel likes nothing more than exploring and adventuring the rugged coastline. The hotel has welcomed all manner of guests over the years, each leaving their own stories and memories behind that Mabel now refers to as the hotel’s secrets.
One day, the most unusual guest arrives. The lady stood at the front desk is old, rude and is wearing bright red lipstick. Nothing too unusual about that. What is unusual is all the pets that she has with her and the remarkable number of suitcases. Never mind being on holiday, the new guest looks like she is moving in to the Mermaid Hotel! Mabel has seen enough guests to know that the new arrival is a bit odd. Madame Badobedah (not her real name but does rhyme with ooooh la la) has an assortment of unusual possessions, never goes out and no-one knows her real name. So Mabel sets out to put her expert ‘spying’ skills into action and prove that Madame is a supervillain who is on the run from the police…
Madame Badobedah is a lovely read that explores the power of imagination and the wonders of friendship. The two female protagonists are at very different stages of their lives but this does not matter as the young girl and old lady prove that age is no barrier to friendship as the most unlikely of bonds blossoms. The times they share together are playful and imaginative, from hanging out with mermaids to sailing away on pirate ships. By the end, the reader will want to give Madame Badobedah a big hug as her own story is unveiled and shows that we should never be too quick to judge others.
Dahl’s text is poetic and the soft watercolour illustrations by Lauren O’Hara are wonderful. In the hardback edition of this book, the pages are thick and it just adds something extra to this already special book.
Recommended for 6+.
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