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Monday, September 21, 2020

On Account of the Gum, written and illustrated by Adam Rex. Chronicle Books, Raincoast. 2020. $23.99 ages 5 and up




"Okay:
We went on some websites. 
And all of them swear 
        if you have to get scissors
                      and gum out of hair
you take two sticks of butter
        and smear them along,  
                                    and ... "

The reader knows before this story begins that there is real trouble on the horizon. Just before sleep, the young protagonist blows a bubble. Once asleep, the gum finds its way out of her mouth. Oh, dear! 

An unknown narrator is quick to notice and let the disgruntled girl know she has a problem. Explaining what has been tried and did not work, the narrator begins to share more and more zany ideas for removing first the scissors that got stuck in the gum; then the butter and scissors that are now stuck. The child's expression clearly displays her displeasure with failed advice. 

"Don't give me that look." 

An aunt, her grandpa. a rabbit, a cat, a vacuum, a cake. All suggestions result in this early morning causing a great deal of distress for someone who just wants to get ready for school. Each accompanying illustration ups the chaos caused when taking advice not solicited. The final straw is the arrival of firemen who bring hoses, a dog and some chili. She has had enough: STOP! then, GET OUT!  Please ... 

What a surprise when the gum gets up and gets out, not at all appreciating the girl's rude outburst. What happens next? you ask.  A surprise ending will have listeners chortling, and begging for a repeat read.  What could be better than that? 
                                                      
                                                                            

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