One Cool Book

Toni Buzzeo and David Small's collaboration on One Cool Friend resulted in one really cool book. It begins with an offer from Elliott's father to visit the aquarium. Though he does not like crowds and noisy kids, Elliott's polite manners lead him to agree. It was not to be a father/son outing though, as Elliott is sent off while his father reads National Geographic. At the penguin exhibit, he discovers a lovely little Magellan penguin who looks as proper as him. And when he asks his father if he can have a penguin, the excitement and deception begin. The illustrations perfectly complement the text. It is a witty, fun story with an unexpected ending. I loved it so much I had to read it aloud to my teaching partner and dear David LaRochelle on Tuesday morning!