Rhino, who sniffed, and
snorted, and sneezed.
"Pee-yew!"
She smooched Panda.
"Ewww!"
She bussed the baboons.
"Blech! Blech! Fish breath!"
Seal is looking to make new friends after her recent arrival from a French zoo. No word of welcome from any of the zoo's denizens is perplexing and disappointing. Then, a sparrow's quick peck is all she needs to give her freedom to make the first overture.
With sardine breath and a purpose, she sets her path to meet rhino, then panda. They have an unexpected reaction. Oblivious, Seal carries on. The kissing, cuddling, canoodling, and slobbering are not appreciated by the others, and they make their feelings known. Seal notices nothing. She uses her French ways to greet new friends, and that is her goal. Finally, Snow Leopard sets her straight:
"Snow Leopard didn't groan or grumble.
He didn't gag. Instead, he growled.
"You stink!"
It is immediately evident that Seal has no idea. Her sad countenance and deflated spirit lead her right back to the water that is her home. Sparrow is not pleased, and reminds the others about being new and alone. It turns the page for the group. Their heartfelt gift of poetry is just the incentive Seal needs to realize that a dietary switch from sardine to shrimp might be just the ticket. Soon, she is feeling the warmth of many new friendships.
Olivier Tallec creates appeal with his expressive, dramatic animals ... an appeal that is sure to delight young listeners. He cleverly matches the fun found in the humorous text. It's a great way to get kids talking about differences, friendship, and finding a fit within a new group.
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