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Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans, book cover

Madeline Summary

by Ludwig Bemelmans

4.23 Goodreads · 194k ratingsChildren's44 pages11-min summary

Madeline, the smallest and bravest girl at a Parisian boarding school, goes to the hospital for an appendectomy, an adventure that makes her the envy of her classmates.

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By BookBrief EditorialPublished February 2026How we write summaries

Synopsis

Covers the whole plot, including the ending.

Madeline, the smallest and bravest of twelve girls at a Paris boarding school, is known for her fearless actions, which often worry her teacher, Miss Clavel. One night, Madeline gets sick and goes to the hospital for an appendectomy. Her classmates are sad at first, but when they visit, they are impressed by her scar and all the toys and flowers she received. Madeline recovers quickly, but her friends feel a little jealous of her exciting experience. Later that night, as Miss Clavel turns out the light, all the other girls wish they could have an appendectomy too, which makes Miss Clavel sigh with amusement and reassurance.
Difficulty
Easy
Pacing
Moderate
Mood
Whimsical, Cheerful, Humorous, Reassuring
Read it if
You enjoy classic children's stories with rhyming text, charming illustrations, and a spirited protagonist.
Skip it if
You prefer modern children's books with complex plots or diverse character representation.

Madeline Plot Summary

Covers the whole plot, including the ending.

  1. The Twelve Little Girls in Two Straight Lines

    In an old house in Paris, covered in vines, lived twelve little girls in two straight lines. The smallest and most spirited among them was Madeline. Every day, under the watchful eye of their governess, Miss Clavel, the girls followed a strict routine. They ate their bread and butter, brushed their teeth, went to bed, and woke up again, always moving in their neat, disciplined formation. Despite their uniformity, Madeline stood out with her daring and independent nature, often making Miss Clavel worry.

  2. Madeline's Fearless Antics

    Madeline was not afraid of mice, nor was she afraid of lions. This clearly made her different from her eleven companions. She was known for her bold and sometimes mischievous behavior. One time, she teased a tiger at the zoo, showing her lack of fear and her adventurous spirit. This scene further shows her unique personality within the group of otherwise well-behaved girls, often leading Miss Clavel to exclaim, 'Goodness, gracious, me!'

  3. A Sudden Turn for the Worse

    One night, Miss Clavel woke up suddenly. Feeling that something was wrong, she quickly put on her shoes and coat and checked on the girls. She found that Madeline was not well. Madeline was crying and holding her stomach, clearly in pain. Miss Clavel immediately knew that something serious was happening and that Madeline needed urgent medical attention. This sudden illness changes the girls' routine life into an unexpected crisis.

  4. The Trip to the Hospital

    Without delay, Miss Clavel carried Madeline out of the house and into the night. They quickly went to a hospital. There, doctors examined Madeline and decided she needed an operation. They found she had appendicitis, and her appendix had to be removed. This unexpected medical emergency brings a serious tone to the story, contrasting with the lighthearted routine shown earlier, and puts Madeline in a vulnerable situation.

  5. Madeline's Recovery and Visitors

    The very next morning, Madeline felt much better. She ate and enjoyed her hospital stay. She received many flowers and a doll from her father, making her hospital room feel less lonely. The other eleven girls, with Miss Clavel, came to visit her, bringing even more cheer. Madeline proudly showed off her scar, a sign of her bravery and recent adventure, making her the center of attention.

  6. The Scar and the Admiration

    During their visit, Madeline lifted her nightgown to show her appendectomy scar. The other eleven girls were very interested in it. They looked at the scar with a mix of awe and envy, seeing it as a badge of honor and a clear sign of Madeline's unusual experience. This moment makes Madeline's status among her peers special, changing her illness into an admirable adventure and further showing her individuality.

  7. A Night of Doubt

    After their visit, the eleven girls and Miss Clavel returned to their old house, walking in their usual two straight lines. As they walked, they thought about Madeline and her brave experience. They wondered about the scar and the excitement of the hospital visit. The experience left a strong impression on them, making them think about their own lives and perhaps wish for a similar, though less painful, adventure.

  8. A Shared Wish

    Back in their beds, the eleven girls could not sleep. Their minds were still full of thoughts of Madeline's scar and her adventure. One by one, they began to cry, all wanting to have their appendix out too. This shows how much Madeline influences her friends and their wish to share in her unusual experience, even if it means having surgery. Miss Clavel, hearing their cries, knew she had to do something.

  9. Miss Clavel's Assurance

    Miss Clavel, understanding the girls' sadness and their longing for a scar like Madeline's, quickly knew what was happening. She rushed into their dormitory, realizing that their envy and fascination had led them to wish for an appendectomy themselves. She simply said, 'Goodnight, little girls! Thank the Lord you are well! And now go to sleep!' Her words calmed them and ended their unusual night of wanting something like Madeline's experience, bringing the story to a peaceful close.

Principal Figures

Madeline

Protagonist

The smallest and most spirited of the twelve little girls

Madeline is a brave, independent, and fearless little girl who stands out among her eleven companions. Despite being the smallest, she is the most daring, unafraid of mice or lions, and often engages in mischievous behavior like teasing a tiger. Her adventurous spirit leads her to an appendectomy, which she faces with remarkable courage, even showing off her scar with pride. She is the catalyst for the other girls' envy and admiration.

Relationships: Miss Clavel (Student-governess; Miss Clavel worries about Madeline's antics); The Eleven Other Girls (Classmates/friends; Madeline is a leader and object of their admiration)

Miss Clavel

Supporting

The vigilant governess of the twelve little girls

Miss Clavel is the dedicated and watchful governess of the twelve little girls. She is responsible for their care, education, and adherence to a strict routine. She is observant, waking up when Madeline is ill, and acts swiftly and responsibly to get Madeline to the hospital. While often exasperated by Madeline's daring, she genuinely cares for all the girls and provides comfort and reassurance when needed.

Relationships: Madeline (Governess-student; concerned guardian); The Eleven Other Girls (Governess-students; responsible caretaker)

The Eleven Other Girls

Supporting

Madeline's classmates, who admire her bravery

These eleven girls are Madeline's companions, living under Miss Clavel's care in an old house in Paris. They are generally well-behaved and follow the routine in two straight lines. Initially, they seem to blend into the background, but they become observers and admirers of Madeline's unique experiences. They are fascinated by her appendectomy scar and collectively wish for a similar adventure, highlighting their desire for individuality and excitement.

Relationships: Madeline (Classmates/friends; they admire and envy her); Miss Clavel (Students; under her care and guidance)

The Doctor

Mentioned

The medical professional who diagnoses and operates on Madeline

The doctor is a minor, yet crucial, character who appears briefly during Madeline's emergency. He is responsible for diagnosing Madeline's appendicitis and performing the necessary operation. His role is purely functional, representing the medical care Madeline receives and the successful resolution of her health crisis. He ensures Madeline's quick recovery.

Relationships: Madeline (Patient-doctor)

Madeline's Father

Mentioned

Sends Madeline a doll during her hospital stay

Madeline's father is mentioned only once in the story, sending her a doll while she is recovering in the hospital. This brief mention serves to show that Madeline has family beyond Miss Clavel and the other girls, and that she is loved and cared for even when away from home. His gift adds a touch of comfort and cheer to Madeline's hospital experience.

Relationships: Madeline (Father-daughter)

Themes & Insights

Individuality vs. Conformity

The story consistently contrasts Madeline's unique and daring personality with the uniform behavior of the other eleven girls. While the group moves in 'two straight lines' and follows strict routines, Madeline is 'not afraid of mice' or 'lions' and teases tigers. Her appendectomy and subsequent scar further show her individuality, making her stand out from her peers who initially conform but later wish to be like her. This theme celebrates being different.

“In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines lived twelve little girls in two straight lines. They left the house at half past nine in two straight lines, in rain or shine. The smallest one was Madeline.”
Narrator

Courage and Bravery

Madeline is brave throughout the story. Her fearlessness is clear early on through her interactions with animals, showing she is 'not afraid of mice, she was not afraid of lions.' This bravery is most evident when she faces an unexpected illness and has an appendectomy. Her quick recovery and proud display of her scar show great endurance and a lack of fear, inspiring admiration from her friends and turning a potentially scary event into an adventure.

“And the smallest one was Madeline. She was not afraid of mice, she loved winter, snow, and ice. To the tiger in the zoo Madeline just said, 'Pooh-pooh.'”
Narrator

Admiration and Envy

Madeline's unique appendectomy experience makes the other eleven girls admire and envy her. When Madeline proudly shows her scar, her friends are 'filled with awe' and, back home, all wish to have their 'appendix out' too. This shows how a single, dramatic event can make one person special in the eyes of their peers, making her experience desirable, even if it involves pain or surgery. It demonstrates the human desire for special attention and adventure.

“The other little girls said, 'Boo-hoo, we want our appendix out, too!'”
The Eleven Other Girls

The Comfort of Routine and the Disruptions of Life

The story starts by showing a strict and comforting routine for the twelve girls under Miss Clavel's care, from eating 'bread and butter' to brushing their teeth. This predictable order is suddenly broken by Madeline's appendicitis, leading to an emergency hospital visit. While the disruption is significant, the story quickly returns to a new normal, with Madeline recovering and the other girls returning to their routine. This theme looks at how unexpected events challenge established patterns and how life eventually returns to a sense of order, though with new experiences.

“In two straight lines they broke their bread and brushed their teeth and went to bed.”
Narrator

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

Rhyming Couplets and Rhythmic Text

Creates a memorable and engaging narrative flow

Bemelmans employs a consistent pattern of rhyming couplets and a strong, sing-song rhythm throughout the book. This poetic structure makes the story highly engaging and easy for young readers to follow and remember. For example, 'In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines / Lived twelve little girls in two straight lines.' This device enhances the whimsical tone and serves to underscore the routine and order, making the disruptions more impactful.

Visual Contrast

Highlights Madeline's individuality through illustrations

The illustrations frequently use visual contrast to emphasize Madeline's uniqueness. While the other eleven girls are often depicted uniformly, in their 'two straight lines' and similar postures, Madeline is consistently shown in a distinct pose, expression, or activity. For instance, in the zoo scene, she alone confronts the tiger. This visual device reinforces the theme of individuality versus conformity, making Madeline's spirited nature immediately apparent to the reader.

Repetition

Reinforces routines and character traits

Repetition is used effectively to establish the girls' daily routine and Madeline's defining characteristics. Phrases like 'in two straight lines' are repeated to underscore the conformity, while descriptions of Madeline's fearlessness (e.g., 'She was not afraid of mice, she was not afraid of lions') are reiterated. This device helps to build a predictable narrative structure, making the moments of disruption more surprising and memorable, and solidifying key character traits in the reader's mind.

The Scar as a Symbol

Represents bravery, experience, and individuality

Madeline's appendectomy scar serves as a powerful symbol in the story. Initially, it's a physical mark of her illness and recovery. However, when she proudly displays it, the scar transforms into a symbol of her bravery, her unique experience, and her individuality. For the other girls, it becomes an object of fascination and envy, representing an adventure and a badge of honor that sets Madeline apart. It externalizes an internal journey of courage.

Madeline Quotes

“In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines lived twelve little girls in two straight lines.”
Opening lines introducing the setting and characters.
“They left the house at half past nine in two straight lines in rain or shine.”
Describes the girls' daily routine and discipline.
“The smallest one was Madeline.”
Introduces the protagonist, highlighting her uniqueness.
“She was not afraid of mice. She loved winter, snow, and ice.”
Shows Madeline's fearless and adventurous nature.
“And nobody knew so well how to frighten Miss Clavel.”
Highlights Madeline's mischievous side and relationship with the caretaker.
“In the middle of the night, Miss Clavel turned on her light and said, 'Something is not right!'”
Miss Clavel senses trouble, leading to the discovery of Madeline's illness.
“And soon after Dr. Cohn came, he rushed out to the phone, and he dialed: DANton-ten-six.”
The doctor's urgent response to Madeline's appendicitis.
“To the hospital in no time flat, Madeline went, with a doll and a ball and a gift from Papa.”
Madeline is taken to the hospital, bringing comfort items.
“And she had to stay in bed for ten days.”
Describes the length of Madeline's hospital recovery.
“When they returned to the house in Paris covered with vines, they brushed their teeth and went to bed.”
The girls resume their routine after visiting Madeline.
“Good night, little girls! Thank the lord you are well! And now go to sleep!”
Miss Clavel's relieved bedtime words after the scare.
“And she smiled at the ceiling, and she smiled at the wall, and she smiled at Miss Clavel, and the toys and all.”
Madeline's cheerful demeanor even in the hospital.
“But the biggest surprise by far was the scar! For they saw her scar!”
The other girls are amazed by Madeline's appendectomy scar.
“We want to have our appendix out, too!”
The other girls express envy after seeing Madeline's scar.

Quiz

10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.

  1. Question 1

    Where is Madeline's boarding school located?

    1. London
    2. New York
    3. Paris
    4. Rome
    Show answer

    C. Paris The story is set in picturesque Paris, as described in the book's introduction, with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame appearing in the illustrations.

  2. Question 2

    What is the name of the woman who cares for Madeline and the other girls at the boarding school?

    1. Miss Clavel
    2. Madame Bovary
    3. Mrs. McGillicuddy
    4. Sister Marguerite
    Show answer

    A. Miss Clavel Miss Clavel is the nun who oversees the twelve little girls, including Madeline, at the Paris boarding school, and she plays a key role in noticing Madeline's illness.

  3. Question 3

    How many little girls live in the boarding school with Madeline?

    1. Ten
    2. Eleven
    3. Twelve
    4. Thirteen
    Show answer

    C. Twelve The book famously begins with the line: 'In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines, lived twelve little girls in two straight lines.' Madeline is one of these twelve.

  4. Question 4

    Why does Madeline need to go to the hospital?

    1. She breaks her leg while playing
    2. She has appendicitis
    3. She catches a bad cold
    4. She gets food poisoning
    Show answer

    B. She has appendicitis Madeline wakes up crying in the night with pain, and the doctor diagnoses her with appendicitis, requiring immediate surgery at the hospital.

  5. Question 5

    What does Madeline receive as a gift from her father while she is in the hospital?

    1. A doll
    2. A scar
    3. A dollhouse
    4. A scar
    Show answer

    D. A scar After her appendectomy, Madeline shows off her scar to the other girls, which is depicted as a proud moment in the story, though it's not a physical gift but a result of her surgery.

  6. Question 6

    Which of the following best describes Madeline's character as portrayed in the book?

    1. Shy and timid
    2. Brave and spirited
    3. Mean and bossy
    4. Lazy and careless
    Show answer

    B. Brave and spirited Madeline is known as a spirited heroine who faces her hospital trip with courage, embodying bravery and cheerfulness despite her illness.

  7. Question 7

    What literary award was 'Madeline' honored with in 1940?

    1. Newbery Medal
    2. Caldecott Honor
    3. Pulitzer Prize
    4. National Book Award
    Show answer

    B. Caldecott Honor The book received a Caldecott Honor in 1940, recognizing its distinguished illustrations in American children's literature.

  8. Question 8

    How do the other girls react when they visit Madeline in the hospital and see her scar?

    1. They are frightened and run away
    2. They feel jealous and want scars too
    3. They laugh and make fun of her
    4. They ignore her and play elsewhere
    Show answer

    B. They feel jealous and want scars too Upon seeing Madeline's scar and the toys and candy she received, the other girls cry out, 'We want to have our appendix out too!' showing their envy and the humorous twist at the end.

  9. Question 9

    What is a key theme explored in 'Madeline' through her hospital experience?

    1. The dangers of city life
    2. The importance of friendship
    3. Facing fear with bravery and humor
    4. The value of education
    Show answer

    C. Facing fear with bravery and humor The story highlights Madeline's courage and cheerful demeanor during a scary situation (surgery), using humor to show how she turns a negative experience into something positive, inspiring resilience.

  10. Question 10

    In what way does the book's rhythmic text contribute to its appeal, as mentioned in the description?

    1. It makes the story easier to memorize for performances
    2. It enhances the educational value for learning French
    3. It creates a timeless and engaging read-aloud experience
    4. It provides historical accuracy about 1940s Paris
    Show answer

    C. It creates a timeless and engaging read-aloud experience The rhythmic and rhyming text, combined with cheerful humor and spirited art, makes 'Madeline' a perennial favorite for read-aloud sessions, engaging children of all ages through its musical quality.

Madeline FAQ

What is 'Madeline' about?

The story follows Madeline, the smallest and bravest of twelve girls living in a Parisian boarding school under the care of Miss Clavel. When Madeline gets appendicitis and must go to the hospital for surgery, her adventure—including a scar she proudly shows off—inspires both concern and envy among the other girls.

Why should I read 'Madeline'?

It's a timeless children's classic that celebrates courage, resilience, and friendship through a spirited heroine. The rhythmic text, cheerful humor, and iconic art make it engaging for young readers, while its themes of overcoming fear and finding joy in adversity resonate across generations.

What is the background/setting of 'Madeline'?

The story is set in picturesque Paris in the mid-20th century, featuring landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River. The girls live in a vine-covered house 'covered with vines' near the city, with scenes at their boarding school and the hospital where Madeline recovers.

What are the most memorable quotes?

Famous lines include the opening: 'In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines, lived twelve little girls in two straight lines.' Another is Madeline's fearless declaration: 'Pooh-pooh' to the tiger at the zoo, showcasing her bold personality.

What writing style does the author use?

Ludwig Bemelmans employs a rhythmic, rhyming text with a singsong cadence that's easy for children to remember. The prose is simple yet vivid, paired with whimsical illustrations that use bold lines and limited color palettes to create a cheerful, timeless aesthetic.

What minor details add significant meaning?

The 'two straight lines' the girls walk in symbolizes order and discipline in their lives, contrasting with Madeline's individuality. The scar Madeline shows after surgery becomes a badge of courage, subtly teaching that challenges can be sources of pride rather than shame.

What are some subtle foreshadowing moments?

Early in the book, Madeline is depicted as fearless, saying 'Pooh-pooh' to danger at the zoo, hinting at her bravery during the hospital ordeal. The mention of Miss Clavel's vigilance—'she turned on the light and said, 'Something is not right!''—foreshadows Madeline's sudden illness.

What unexpected character connections exist?

While the girls seem uniform in their routines, Madeline's experience creates a bond; her hospital stay leads the other girls to cry 'Boo-hoo' and later mimic her desire for scars, showing how her individuality influences the group dynamic and deepens their friendship.

What are unspoken character motivations?

Madeline's bravery may stem from a desire to stand out as the smallest in the group, using fearlessness to assert her identity. The other girls' envy of her scar suggests a hidden wish for attention and adventure, contrasting with their orderly lives.

What psychological complexities do characters exhibit?

Madeline balances vulnerability (needing care when sick) with resilience (proudly showing her scar). The other girls display groupthink, initially fearful but then collectively desiring scars, reflecting how peer influence and admiration can shape children's emotions and actions.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Key moments include Madeline's sudden pain that leads to her hospitalization, causing worry among the girls. Her return with a scar shifts emotions from concern to envy, culminating in the girls' plea for scars too, highlighting a transition from fear to admiration.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Initially, the girls live in orderly harmony under Miss Clavel's care. Madeline's illness tests this, with Miss Clavel showing maternal concern. Post-recovery, Madeline's scar inspires the others, subtly shifting dynamics from uniformity to celebrating individuality within the group.

Which parts remain ambiguous or open-ended?

The story doesn't specify the long-term impact of the girls' desire for scars—whether they learn from Madeline's experience or simply mimic her superficially. Also, Madeline's full recovery and future adventures are left to the imagination, inviting readers to ponder her continued bravery.

What are controversial scenes or decisions?

Some modern readers might debate the portrayal of hospitalization and surgery as an 'adventure,' potentially glossing over medical fears. Additionally, the girls' envy of a surgical scar could be seen as romanticizing pain, though it's generally interpreted as a childlike fascination with bravery.

'Madeline' ending explained: how it ends & what it means

The book ends with the other girls crying 'Boo-hoo' and wanting scars like Madeline's, to which Miss Clavel reassures them. This conclusion emphasizes themes of courage and individuality, suggesting that facing challenges can inspire others and that true strength lies in resilience, not conformity.

About the author

Ludwig Bemelmans

Ludwig Bemelmans

Ludwig Bemelmans was an Austrian-American author and illustrator, best known for creating the beloved children's book series featuring Madeline. His work combines charming storytelling with whimsical illustrations, capturing the adventures of a small girl in Paris. Bemelmans' contributions to children's literature have made a lasting impact, particularly through the enduring popularity of Madeline.

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