Friday, March 31, 2000

The Very Quiet Cricket

The vivid pictures and simple story make this book a very enjoyable read for youngsters who are just beginning to read on their own. It tells the tale of a cricket who cannot chirp. He goes about his business throughout the story, coming across a different animal on each page. Each different animal has a different way of saying hello, but the poor cricket cannot say anything in reply. Then, just as he is about to sink into the depths of despair, he hears a noise more beautiful than any he has heard yet. Who is this mysterious stranger? And is she just what he needs to get him to speak up?

This is a fun book for young children to read. Not only is it a good story dealing with loneliness and a search for companionship, it is educational as it describes the noises made by various creatures. And the surprise ending is sure to leave the reader squealing with delight. If you enjoy this book, try Eric Carle's other books. "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" is especially fun. And for more books along these lines, check out "Are You My Mother?" and "Is Your Mama a Llama?".

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