Mopoke (Philip Bunting, Scholastic)

‘This is a mopoke’ is the opening line of a new picture book that stars the Bookbook Owl. Extremely common around Australia, this quiet bird keeps to itself. Or at least it used to. Whoever is in control of the words is out of control with all the variations they inflict on it. Highpoke, lowpoke, two pokes, more pokes … where will the madness end? Not before poorpoke is pushed to its limits! Philip Bunting’s illustrations might be unassuming but they pack a hilarious punch when paired with the short, playful text—especially as each page gets more surprising and ridiculous. This deft re-working of a simple theme is sure to delight children over three and adults alike. Mopoke is perfect for sharing one on one or reading to a larger group. Laughter is inevitable.

Michael Earp is the manager and buyer for the Younger Sun

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