A Bat Cannot Bat, a Stair Cannot Stare

July 1, 2014

Gr 2-4-Beginning with homonyms, or words that are spelled and sound the same but have different meanings, Cleary gives many humorous examples. These are followed by homophones, words that sound alike but their spellings and meanings are different. Each rhythmic, zany verse is supported by Goneau's colorful and comical illustrations. The final pages include charts showing more homonyms and homophones with their meanings. As the book claims, "the fun doesn't lessen as you laugh through each lesson." Students will not only be repeating these silly verses but will be writing their own as well.-Paula Huddy, The Blake School-Highcroft Campus, Wayzata, MN

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 1, 2014
Grades K-3 In this colorful book, cartoonlike, costumed animals play out scenes featuring homonyms (words that sound and look alike but have different meanings) and homophones (words that sound alike but look different and have different meanings). Cleary first tackled the subject in How Much Can a Bare Bear Bear? What Are Homonyms and Homophones? (2006). But a lesson on homonyms and homophones is such a natural for the Words Are CATegorical series, with its signature combination of fast-paced rhymes and zany illustrations, that the topic is well worth revisiting. This volume works well on its own or in combination with its predecessor. Comparing the two, the verse is witty in both books, but in the newer one, the overuse of saturated colors in the illustrations detracts from the book's overall effectiveness. On the other hand, the new appended charts, which feature a number of homonyms and homophones with their dual definitions, are a useful addition. An enjoyable mix of wordplay and grammar.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)