BOOKS

Splatypus

by Sudipta BARDHAN-QUALLEN
illus. by Jackie Urbanovic. 32p. Amazon/Two Lions. Apr. 2017. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9781503939202.
COPY ISBN
PreS-K—Platypus is lonely and just wants to play. He spends all day traveling around, looking for friends. Platypus meets kangaroos, possums, bats, and more. Some are bumpy; others are too jumpy or could climb high and even fly. After a series of failed attempts to partake in the fun, Platypus finally finds the perfect place to play at home or in the water, where everyone is wiggling and giggling. This is an adorable story with bright and cheerful illustrations that are sure to attract a young child's eyes. The simple, rhyming text flows smoothly. Bardhan-Quallen's use of onomatopoeia adds to the overall mood of the story. Characters are fun and expressive.
VERDICT A great addition for storytimes as well as for bedtime. This one is a real crowd-pleaser.
Reviewed by Megan McGinnis, Sachem Public Library, Holbrook, NY
Platypus tries to play with the kangaroos, dingoes, possums, and fruit bats, but he never quite fits in, and his clumsiness earns him the name "Splatypus." Eventually, he discovers swimming with other aquatic animals and realizes where he belongs. The rhyming text is full of onomatopoeic tongue twisters ("HOBBLE, BOBBLE, WIGGLE, WOBBLE"). Comical illustrations prominently feature Platypus's blue feet and bill against dusty outback scenes.
 , Jul 01, 2017

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