Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers

Summary:  A series of animal parents and offspring observe humans from a distance.  “Mama, what’s that?” asks a young elephant.  “Don’t get too close,” a frog warns.  “Why not?” asks the smaller frog.  “Because people are wild.”  They’re loud, messy, smelly, and nosy.  But, the younger animals point out, people are also funny, cuddly, and cute.  When the young elephant begs to keep a human, the parent says no.  “People are wild.  And all wild creatures should be free.”  Includes facts about each animal shown, a map showing where they live, and each one’s endangered status.  40 pages; ages 4-8.

Pros:  Kids will get a kick out of hearing animals describe humans in the same way people often talk about animals, and in the process may also absorb an important lesson about wild creatures.  Everyone will be drawn in by the beautiful illustrations.

Cons:  Wouldn’t a young frog be a tadpole?

April 5, 2022 at 03:22PM Janet Dawson