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Monday, December 21, 2009

Never Smile at a Monkey, written and illustrated by Steve Jenkins. Houghton Mifflin, T Allen, 2009. $21.95 ages 6 and up


"This book is about creatures - both large and small - whose dangerous nature may not be so obvious. Their teeth, claws, spines and venoms can be deadly to an unsuspecting or careless human. What makes these animals dangerous? And what should you never do if you encounter one of them?"

Now, if that isn't an invitation to check out this book, I don't what would be? Kids are fascinated by animals of all types and they love to learn about those that are familiar and not so familiar. In this book they will meet seventeen creatures and learn one important thing about each one. For instance, did you know that you should NEVER stare at a spitting cobra? Now, why would anyone want to do that? In reality, a cobra 'can spit its venom accurately for more than two and a half metres'. And it aims for the eyes, causing pain and blindness. YIKES!

Steve Jenkins asks questions that few people ask...and then he searches for the answers to those questions, or he comes upon some unusual fact while doing his research and that sets his course for the next book he will write. Always intriguing and so informative, I love to read each new book. He has a great website, too. Check him out on the web.

Add to all the information he gleans through his curious nature, he is an accomplished artist, whose paper collages are full of detail and color. Each of his brilliant animals is accompanied by the admonition and a full paragraph, explaining why he hopes that you will take his advice. Take mine, and check out this book!

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