Crabby Pants

February 1, 2011

PreS-Gr 1-In the first book, a kitten acts out when things don't go his way. When his older brother tells him not to be a "crabby pants," Roger doesn't take that well either. Then, while seated in the "naughty chair....Something clicked." Roger decides to solve his problem by turning his pants into shorts. Of course, that's not the end of the story. This tale will have children laughing, but also sympathizing with the young feline. The simple text teaches a lesson about tantrums and acceptance without being preachy, and the colorful cartoon illustrations depict a modern, stylishly dressed, humanlike cat family. This is a good choice for storytimes. In the second title, a young alligator does all sorts of "big girl" things like getting dressed and using the potty chair, but Janey wants to do "fun stuff" like taking a taxi and going shopping. When her parents tell her she's not yet ready, she decides that she's not big enough for "boring stuff" either, and refuses to clean her room or eat her vegetables. But when she has to consider that she may not be big enough for preschool, she has to make a decision. Children will feel sympathy when they see the wordless spread showing a close-up of Janey with tear-filled eyes. At first glance, with its charming cartoon illustrations, vibrant colors, and large pink text for emphasis, this book seems full of whimsy, but instead the predictable story reads a little like a lesson.-Lora Van Marel, Orland Park Public Library, IL

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.