A Whiff of Pine, a Hint of Skunk: A Forest of Poems

K-Gr 5Another winner from the accomplished duo that created "Today at the Bluebird Café" (S & S, 2007). In one poem, a toad enumerates what it ate for lunch, "But I made a mistake/with the slug-on-a-stick/a "smidgen" too salty/and now I feel sick." The classic art project of a turkey produced from a child's handprint inspires a delightful response from the turkey, "Finally, I'm baffled/that you've made me look so dumb./My head is quite distinguished/and it's "nothing" like your thumb." A fox with paws crossed explains why he will never be a pet, "I won't come when you call, /I won't jump for the ball," sounding humorously like "Green Eggs and Ham". A lovely description of spring, "A million arms in woody sleeves/wave a zillion brand-new leaves," evokes the majesty of nature magnificently. Richly glowing watercolors accompany these delightful poems about woodland flora and fauna. A charming spread showcasing the animals featured in the poems is repeated on the endpapers, and the vivid cover is irresistible. This beautifully designed book displays large bold font that stands out clearly on bright white paper and is edged by robust watercolors. Perfect for sharing aloud"Kirsten Cutler, Sonoma County Library, CA" Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.