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Wednesday, August 31, 2022

Crocodile Hungry, written by Eija Sumner and illustrated by John Martz. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2022. $24.99 ages 2 and up


"GROCERY STORE? 

CART HANDLE TOO HIGH. 
CROCODILE PERFORMS ACROBATIC FEAT
TO REACH CART. NO APPLAUSE. 

EVERYONE SCREAMING.

I would give anything to read this book out loud to young kids. It is the perfect kind of book to make them giggle with glee as it is read, and so much fun for the reader as well! 

It's evident from page one that the animals in his vicinity are a touch worried about Crocodile's presence. They keep a fitting distance as Crocodile walks past them baring his own concerned face. Takes but a turn of the page to learn Crocodile is HUNGRY and having trouble finding something to eat. 

"CANNED HAM?
         TOO HARD TO OPEN. 

BEEF JERKY?
          GETS STUCK IN TEETH. 

EGGS?
    BITE SHELL, 
    GET TOOTHACHE.
"

What a dilemma ... and it doesn't get better as Crocodile does his best to find a place that will allow him to assuage the hunger that is causing distress. He frightens everyone at the farmers' market, at the grocery store, and in the community garden, leaving chaos and mayhem in his wake. 

Poor guy! He goes from hungry to hangry, and then to great sadness. Oh, those crocodile tears! The result is an enticing pond for a flamboyance of flamingos. Will he find what he needs here? You will have to read this terrific book to find the answer to that question. 

John Martz uses ink, paper and a computer to bring the brightly-colored artwork and hilarious scenarios to the reader's attention. The crocodile's expressive face and the many funny details presented will lead to stops and discussion, and wishes for a repeat reading. Just what you want when you read to little ones.   

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