Giraffe and Bird Together Again
(Giraffe and Bird #4)

Bender's sharp wit, onomatopoeic language, and cartoon-style illustrations capture Giraffe's exasperation, determination, and terror...Bender includes a map of the locations Giraffe visits in his odyssey; inset pictures of the new animals in this book, a bush baby and an ibex, along with their Latin, scientific names offer bonus STEM material....A sequel that delivers. 

PreS-Gr 1--Giraffe does not like to try new things like his friend Bird does. But Giraffe moves out of his comfort zone when he notices that Bird is missing and decides to follow the feathers. In the end though, it is Bird and some other friends who rescue Giraffe who has landed in quicksand. A strength of this title is the action verbs and rich vocabulary that is introduced. For example, craggy is used to describe the mountain Giraffe climbs, his journey is perilous. The text and illustrations also work well together. For example it says, "Giraffe is determined. He leans forward, digs in his hooves, and stomps all the way to the top." In the illustration Giraffe has a serious look on his face. His belly and neck have vines wrapped around them as he marches up the steep mountain. This title lends itself to discussion about friendship and being open to try new things. VERDICT A strong choice for a preschool storytime or a one-on-one sharing.--Robin Sofge, Prince William Public Library System, VA

Savor for the warmth of the illustrations, the fun, and the read-aloud possibilities.