Positives "Mary Poppins Comes Back" is widely praised for its magical and imaginative adventures, with many readers finding the whimsical escapades both entertaining and captivating. The writing style is frequently described as wonderful, quaint, clever, and funny, contributing to a unique reading experience. Reviewers highlighted specific elements such as a baby's philosophical insights into early life and the ingenious way children perceive conversations, adding special depth to the narrative. The book is lauded for its creativity, featuring a variety of fantastical journeys and encounters with memorable characters. For some, this sequel even surpassed the original in its magical scope and immersive quality, offering a delightful and often eerie sense of wonder that encourages creativity and imagination in readers of all ages.
Negatives Despite its strengths, the book draws criticism, primarily concerning Mary Poppins' character, who is consistently portrayed as stern, vain, priggish, and often lacking overt affection, which some found unpleasant or even mistreating towards the children. The parents are frequently depicted as ineffectual or detached, leading to reviewer sadness over the children's emotional circumstances. Some found the book's episodic structure and certain adventures to be repetitive or to fall flat, while others noted a perceived lack of depth or conflict compared to the movie adaptations. Readers familiar with the films were often surprised by the book's different tone, finding it more innocent and less inclined towards socio-political commentary. Additionally, a few reviewers pointed out instances of casual racism or questionable philosophical elements, and a general frustration was expressed regarding the lack of explanations for Mary Poppins' mysterious origins or the nature of her magic.
Conclusion Overall, "Mary Poppins Comes Back" is considered a worthy continuation of the series, offering more of the distinctive magic and peculiar charm that define its titular character. While it may not appeal to all, particularly those expecting a direct parallel to the more sentimental film versions or a traditionally warm protagonist, it is highly recommended for readers, both children and adults, who appreciate imaginative, whimsical storytelling and a classic narrative style that embraces the unexplained. It is particularly suited for those who enjoyed the first book and are open to an enigmatic, "delightfully weird" approach to children's fantasy, valuing imaginative escape, philosophical undertones, and a story that champions creativity, even if delivered with an unapologetically stern hand.
