Roses Are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink

Diane de Groat packs much about human nature, grudges, and the power of forgiveness into this small book. Excellent narrations by Jason Harris and Peter Rose amplify her messages. Gilbert, a possum-like creature, decides to write mean valentines to kids who've been unkind to him; understandably, his classmates are not amused. Young children will enjoy listening and reading along to this picture book's lively watercolor illustrations of Gilbert and his critter classmates. The narration is excellent in pacing and tone, and Gilbert's slightly nerdy voice is especially apt as he shares the poems he's created and received. Light musical touches and occasional auditory illustrations (smacking kissing sounds for an envelope covered in X's) enhance both the silly and more serious moments in this fun production. J.C.G. (c) AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine