PEDRO AND GEORGE

Cousins Pedro and George, a crocodile and an alligator, try to correct the record on their differences in this French import.

Pedro is methodical. George is emotional. He's fed up with being called a crocodile. Pedro suggests a trip to the city to correct the foolish children who perpetuate the confusion. They pack a bag, including a comb ("of no use, of course"), and so begins a bizarre tale of discovery, all depicted in detail-packed black-and-white line drawings. The only spots of color highlight the featured creatures: green for reptiles, beige for humans. Along the way, the cousins decide that eating the children will teach them a lesson, and they try to implement their plan in Mrs. Muiche's classroom. George bites little Josephine's foot, but "pif paf bam," she puts him in a judo hold for a teachable moment. Star pupil Theodore explains that George is an alligator; the crocodile is identified by his fourth lower tooth. Although readers will take a moment to study the cartoons for the differentiation, they mostly (unlike the dutiful students) will be giggling uncontrollably. The droll storytelling and absurd action roll along to the conclusion: the reptiles go home and receive thank-you letters from Josephine for teaching them the difference between a crocodile and an…well, perhaps that is another story!

A wholly original romp told with deliciously Gallic flair in an uncredited translation.