Review: My Crocodile Does Not Bite by Joe Kulka

SUMMARY FROM NETGALLEY.COM:

Ernest's crocodile does not bite! It's very well trained. But when Ernest brings the crocodile to the school's pet show, his rival Cindy Lou gets very rude.
Cindy Lou is sure her poodle Fifi will win best in show. She doesn't think Ernest's croc should be allowed to compete. But Ernest and his friend have some tricks prepared. They're going to prove that when a crocodile's not busy biting, it can really put on a show!

MY TAKE:
If your kid has ever wanted a big pet, I think he or she will like this book a lot.

In My Crocodile Does Not Bite, Ernest brings his crocodile to school for show and tell. Cindy Lou doesn't like this at all and tries to stop Ernest. However, Ernest's crocodile has a few tricks that might show that it indeed is the best pet at school.

The most noticeable thing about this book for me was the illustration and coloring style. It brings to mind the illustrations found in old grammar books. The coloring is kind of dark and faded, as if it were done using oil pastels and then smudged.

The story was cute and Ernest's crocodile is very talented. However, the ending is what really sets this book apart. It's a little bit shocking, especially  the characters' reactions, if you take the story as something that happened in real life. However, all must have been well since the characters are seen again afterwards.

Thanks to NetGalley and Carolrhoda Books for the e-ARC. Publication date of My Crocodile Does Not Bite is on March 1, 2013.

THE GOOD:

1. The ending is unexpected.
2. The story will appeal to young boys.
3. The coloring style is unusual these days.

THE BAD:

1. The illustration and coloring might not appeal to some kids.

FAVORITE QUOTE/S:

Gustave skittered across lawns and through vegetable patches.

READ IT IF:

1. Your child doesn't take children's books too seriously or literally.
2. Your child likes pets.
3. Your child likes books with old-school illustrations.

RATING:


SOUNDS INTERESTING?