Poor lion doesn't have a clue.
Left in the dark regarding his surprise party, he cries all alone. It appears all his friends are in on the occasion; Crocodile orchestrates the activities, Monkey guffaws at its very thought and excitable Elephant shows he is ready for entertainment. Overall, the cause-and-effect scheme provides specific reasons for the feelings portrayed. “Crocodile plans a surprise. Crocodile feels SNEAKY.” Giraffe, however, remains the odd animal out; his timidity receives redundant rephrasing without extending its emotional concept: “Sometimes Giraffe is bashful. Giraffe feels SHY.” The initial group gathers, as well as a few last-minute attendees, in a jovial celebration, party hats and horns included. The characters balance between padded, boldly trimmed spreads to rainbow effect. Their body language reflects each mood; Monkey sticks out his tongue (such a naughty tease), while the cheerful elephant showers himself in exuberant bliss. Illustrations are on relatively light card stock, which is glued to padded blocks to make extra-thick pages. Because the card stock is otherwise unreinforced, use will likely cause pages to separate at the hinges.
A presentation with roaring potential, stunted by its lack of durability. (Board book. 6 mos.-3)
