Michael Slack

At my library we are big fans of Michael Slack's vehicle/animal hybrids, like Elecopter and Monkey Truck. So I was ready to be pleased with this new goofy mash-up and I was not disappointed.

On a green, cat-shaped island, an unseen narrator congratulates three adorable little kittens on their climbing expertise. They've climbed everything, so what's next? The kittens have an idea - the dinosaurs on neighboring dinosaur island! The narrator warns them of the dangers, but off they go in their litter-mobile. The dinosaurs are big. They are mean. They do not want to be climbed by small kittens, no matter how cute!

But the kittens are persistent, retreating to their litter-mobile after every setback to make a new plan and finally, they climb the dinosaurs! Only to make a surprising discovery. Make that... two discoveries?

SPOILER

First, they're cute enough that even scary dinosaurs fall in love with them. Secondly, these aren't the biggest, scariest dinosaurs around. That honor falls to... the Mommysaurs??

With colorful pictures, hilarious narration, "prehistoric grouch lizards" and adorable kitties galore, this will be a storytime favorite in no time.

Verdict: Toddlers up through grade schoolers will find this cheerful story of resilience and determination a welcome relief from current stresses and plenty of silly jokes and colorful, attractive pictures, will make it a favorite read-aloud for all to enjoy. Recommended.

ISBN: 9780593108383; Published September 2020 by Dial; Review copy provided by publisher; Donated to the library… (more)

I liked this book for several reasons. First, the vibrant colors and sketches of the illustrations play significant roles in creating the mood as the story progresses. These illustrations help the reader to know how they should be feeling during that moment in the reading. Second, the text provides playful rhymes for the reader to follow as it is read, providing a smooth fluency. For example, “Whatever her mission, she always succeeds. A benevolent elephant on a flying stampede,” shares a rhyming sound with succeeds and stampede. Finally, this book is a quick and easy read, but it contains a rich amount of challenging vocabulary terms for a younger audience to tackle like, “savanna,” “patrolling,” “labor,” “mission,” “succeeds,” “benevolent,” “stampede,” “billowing,” and so many more. The overall message of the book portrays perseverance in helping others who are in danger and guiding them to safety.… (more)