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48 pp.
| Candlewick |
April, 2020 |
TradeISBN 978-1-5362-1119-1$17.99
(2)
PS
Little Crab and Very Big Crab leave their cozy tide pool home for an ocean adventure, but as they get closer, Little Crab's enthusiasm devolves into trepidation. "'Here we are,' says Very Big Crab...'THE OCEAN!' 'Oh,' says Little Crab." Very Big Crab tries coaxing Little Crab forward, while Little Crab backpedals. The brightly colored crustaceans contrast sharply with the saturated teal backgrounds, and the proportions and shapes of the stylized digital images show the immensity and power of the ocean. Larger and larger waves crash against the rocks, and the two crabs wince with the impact. Then a truly huge wave drags them down to the sea floor--where a party of sea creatures rushes to meet them, and Little Crab finally begins to revel in the delights of the ocean. Crab and ocean sound effects ("TIC-A-TIC"; "SQUELCH") work well for sharing aloud, and the smart pacing of the text makes Little Crab's worries appear more amusing than alarming. This tribute to the anxieties and joys that accompany first experiences resounds with emotion, humor, and sincerity.
Reviewer: Julie Roach
| Horn Book Magazine Issue:
March, 2020