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COCONUT MON by Linda Milstein

COCONUT MON

by Linda Milstein & illustrated by Cheryl Munro Taylor

Pub Date: April 1st, 1995
ISBN: 0-688-12862-9
Publisher: Morrow/HarperCollins

In the very simple text of this Jamaican counting book, the coconut seller disposes of his wares as the story progresses, so the numbers decline from ten to one. Along the way he meets the workers, children, musicians, and other folk who are the foundation of Caribbean society, binding them all together by the simple act of selling his fruit. In this, the ``Coconut Mon'' is almost a mythic figure, brightening the humdrum of everyday life with his sweet treasures. The joy of tropical living bursts out of the scenes; ``vibrant'' doesn't begin to describe the illustrations- -they are downright rowdy. Every shape and curve ripples, and the pages explode with offbeat color combinations. Such bold choices may not appeal to everyone, but in this ode of affection, are refreshingly apt. (Picture book. 3-6)