I've been waiting a year+ for this book to drop and let me tell you, it delivers. This book both entertains and educates and is sure to provide a laugI've been waiting a year+ for this book to drop and let me tell you, it delivers. This book both entertains and educates and is sure to provide a laughter-induced learning experience wherever it is read. The story travels back in time, taking the reader on a journey through the history of underwear. It's a very active experience rather than facts simply being thrown at you, the reader. And those facts, let me tell you . . . they are a blast. Hannah Holt has taken only the most interesting and important facts and weaved them together in a most intriguing, humorous tale. So don't worry about getting beaten over the head with dates and other details that belong in a high school textbook rather than a children's book. Infuse those facts with some quality puns (my favorite: Fruit of the Tomb) and pair them with the most hilarious illustrations (chickens as hunters and gatherers, ancient Egyptians, English kings and queens, etc. modeling different types of undergarments) and you've got yourself a hit. The illustrations couldn't have more kid appeal. You could read this book dozens of times and find something new in each illustration. You'll actually ENJOY reading this book over and over when asked by the little one(s). I'm calling it: this is one of the best books of 2022, hands down. And likely going down as one of the best picture books period. This book is the perfect size-read - fast-paced but more than worth spending that $18.00+ on. You'll want to own a copy of your own for sure....more
From the tall trim size to the unique art to the two-word alliterative title that doesn't try to be cute, you know this picture book is going to be diFrom the tall trim size to the unique art to the two-word alliterative title that doesn't try to be cute, you know this picture book is going to be different from most. It doesn't try to be cute or commercial (not that there is anything wrong with a book being either of those things). Instead, it basks in the glory of its subtle weirdness. And that's what makes it special. This story is bountiful with literary devices (and French fries and seagulls) that make way for deeper discussion and interpretation. Adding to that discussion and interpretation is a fun fantastical element to inspire conjecture. Some of my favorite lines include: "we are microwave molten goo," "The garbage gulls are picky," and "our constellation of crumbs others beasts from the streets. We are ready to be picked." The artwork is warm and vibrant with a style that immediately evokes the nostalgic, summery, literary vibes of the text and overall story. This picture book is filled with the power of imagination and the heartwarming bond of siblings (without the distraction of technology, which lends itself to the nostalgia and timelessness of this tale). It's also nice to find a picture book with a structure that feels more organic. This could easily be a great read (and teaching device) for students beyond the 4-8 range. Check it out! ...more
This fractured fairytale hits all the right notes. The spot-on rhyme and meter truly serve the story and are a lot of fun. The text is quick-paced, whThis fractured fairytale hits all the right notes. The spot-on rhyme and meter truly serve the story and are a lot of fun. The text is quick-paced, which matches the fun antics and speed one would expect from a story about the three little pigs facing off in a hockey match against predators in order to save their rumps. And the silly humor of Watkinson's text is well-matched by Cutler's wintery illustrations. Hockey, Canada, Rhyme, Fairy tales, winter - this book has so many tie-ins, making for a story with great re-readability and year-round appeal. ...more
This heartfelt picture book inspired by the author's childhood taps into feelings nearly everyone has felt at some point, including being afraid to stThis heartfelt picture book inspired by the author's childhood taps into feelings nearly everyone has felt at some point, including being afraid to stand out and worrying about what others will think of you. It's a sweet, empowering story that makes for a quick, enjoyable read, one that will likely lend itself to discussion afterward as well as empower young readers to embrace and celebrate their heritage and everything that makes them unique. It gets 5 stars from me!...more