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Friday, October 23, 2020

King of the Birds, by Elise Gravel. Harper, 2020. $9.99 ages 6 and up

 

"See? It's not that easy for a bird. I can count because I have a big brain. 

*Crows have bigger brains than most birds. Some scientists say that they are as intelligent as seven-year-old humans."

This is a grand start to a new series, written in graphic format. It introduces two avian characters: Arlo is an overconfident crow, and Pips is s tiny yellow bird. Pips likes to get under Arlo's skin. Arlo doesn't mind answering any question posed or reacting to any comment offered as it allows him to do what he does best ... show-off. 

Arlo is skillful, smart and not afraid to let Pips see how talented he is. Their banter and genuine affection for each other drives their story, while teaching young readers a lot about what crows CAN do. They learn what crows eat, how they behave, and the many skills they have. 

"Look! There's something shiny over there! 

What is it? What is it? What is it?

It's a fork. 

Oh my god. It's so beautiful it hurts my eyes. 

And it's so SHINY! I've never seen anything prettier in my entire life."

Pertinent facts about crows are woven onto the pages in footnotes that are quickly and easily read by the intended audience. The book's humorous tone, the simple sentences and the appealing visual jokes will attract fans to this series, and leave them wanting to have another visit with Arlo and Pips.  

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