Review: Undercover Ostrich by Joe Kulka

Okay, he's just plain cute:

9781512497878

$17.99

Animals can be sneaky. But do you know who is especially sneaky? Undercover ostriches! They're everywhere, and they're masters at going undetected. You've probably seen one and just assumed it was another woodpecker or owl. The narrator of this book is on the case, following a single ostrich on his many adventures. Not until the final twist does author and illustrator Joe Kulka let the readers in on the narrator's true motivation: a peanut collection mission involving undercover elephants.

Despite Kulka's assertion that undercover ostriches are "experts at blending into their surroundings", our main character's presence is glaringly, hilariously obvious in each illustration. The trick here is to read aloud with a completely straight face and awestruck tone, while your young audience shrieks "HE'S RIGHT THERE!!!" Pair it with Mac Barnett's Guess Again for an absolutely hysterical (and more than likely raucous) story time!

Three New Picture Books

978-146-771-2132

 

Oh! If only I hadn't...how many times have we all had thoughts that started with those very same words? Disasters could have been averted...or, friendships never formed. Children may enjoy coming up with their own "if only" chain stories...they will certainly enjoy both the text and the lively illustrations in this book!

 

978-076-138-9378

 

Last week, we reviewed The Pets You Get, about a little boy belittling his sister's choice in pets. He would have been very happy with the pet this boy brings to school: a very well-trained crocodile, who does NOT bite. A snippy classmate is not as impressed, and finds out, in the end, that biting is not the only possible danger. Parents may object to the ending, but children (especially those annoyed by similar classmates) will likely cheer.

 

978-076-135-6172

 

All dogs like to go for walks, but Cookie does it on just two legs. This, besides being convenient, brings all sorts of attention, opportunities, and best of all, TREATS! As she tells her canine friend, Kevin:

 

"People walk up and say 'Hey you are amazing! Want some bacon?' It's pretty nice."

 

It all gets to be a bit tiring, though. In the end, it's good she still has her old friend Kevin to give her some good advice.

 

Cookie's (and Kevin's) story is told mostly in comic style, with some humor and over-the-top stereotypes adults will enjoy. Some of that will go over younger readers' heads, but they will still enjoy the comical situations and goofy illustrations. After reading, have them try being dogs for a bit, walking on all fours to see what they can and can't do. Don't read this in front of your dogs, though, or you will never be able to leave bacon unattended again!

Thank-you to Lerner for all three review copies!