ALLIGATOR WEDDING

Jewell describes a rowdy alligator wedding in jaunty Edward Lear–esque rhyme. First there is the ceremony complete with a ring and a “big slurpy kiss, on the bride’s long bumpy snout.” Then, with the formalities over, the party begins in earnest. The bayou beasts feast and toast the happy couple, after which the bride feeds the groom half of the wedding cake, sliding it into his mouth with a rake. Then, of course, there is music and dancing. When the bride throws her crawfish bouquet too high, it is scooped up by a pelican. The newlyweds step into their honeymoon barge which sinks under their weight. Although the groom is distraught, the bride knows just what to do—swim, of course! The party goes on long after the couple’s departure, with the animals finally collapsing at sunrise. This amusing-enough romp is made much more interesting by Rutland’s winning illustrations, which flesh out the scenes and bring the bride, the groom and their many guests to life in all their quirky glory. (Picture book. 4-8)