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Compiled and audio book narrated by Hillary Rodham Clinton - Abridged Nonfiction - 1 CASSETTE - 1.5 hours

Publisher, Simon & Schuster (1998)

In a world dominated by video games, voice mail, and television, it's easy to overlook the importance of the written word. If one very important thing parents can do to help their children learn is read to them, then encouraging them to write must run a close second. What better -- and more rewarding -- way to teach a child these invaluable communication skills than through letter writing?

With her warm and engaging words, Mrs. Clinton suggests ways parents can help their children initiate and enjoy the experience of writing and receiving letters, and shares some of her family's (and pets') experiences. Mrs. Clinton gives a brief "pet history" of the White House, from Dolly Madison's parrot and Teddy Roosevelt's children's menagerie to the Bushes' English springer spaniel Millie. She also talks about the ways Socks and Buddy participate in White House life, such as greeting guests and visiting hospitals and nursing homes.

In Dear Socks, Dear Buddy, Mrs. Clinton also shares more than forty letters children have sent the nation's First Pets, from a simple request for a "paw-tograph" to more exacting notes of good wishes ("I want to give you a big heart, as big as the whole world") and generous advice ("Just because they went on a trip doesn't mean they don't love you any more"). This audiobook will inspire children to share their ideas and wishes through writing.