You Loves Ewe! (Yam and Donkey)

Donkey and Yam (I Yam a Donkey!) are back, still divided by a common language. This time, the contretemps trigger is homonyms, thanks to the introduction of a "lady sheep" who is the object of Yam's affections. "This is Ewe," Yam says. "That is me?" Donkey brays. "I yam so cute and fluffy." To explain the concept of "hummanums," as Donkey calls them, Yam patiently employs word signs and other visual aids (showing the difference, for example, between doe and dough, moose and mousse). Full comprehension eludes Donkey, but one thing he knows for sure: while Yam and a ram are vying for Ewe's affections, it's up to Ewe to decide who she likes. Bell's bright cartoon panels remain crisply drawn, tightly cropped, and gleefully in-your-face--a narrative dynamic that the target age should eat right up. Donkey is both transgressive and utterly secure in his daffiness, so youngsters can both savor the mischief he causes and take pride that they're at least a few steps ahead of him. Ages 4-7. (Nov.)

Gr 1-3--Donkey and Yam from Bell's I Yam a Donkey are back. Yam introduces Ewe to Donkey and thus begins a lengthy misunderstanding about the words you vs. ewe. Yam explains homonyms and gives examples, which are illustrated in Bell's china marker and acrylic drawings. Moose? Or Mousse? The joke goes on a bit too long and readers old enough to understand homonyms and get the visual clues may be too old to find the mix up amusing. Younger readers drawn in by Bell's enticingly bright, cartoon illustrations may be confused by the concept. VERDICT Possibly useful as an introduction to a grammar lesson, but readers are unlikely to gravitate toward this bit of silliness on their own.--Kelly Roth, Bartow County Public Library, Cartersville, GA