Crunch, the Shy Dinosaur

Crunch's name is in the title, but this very funny story is really about the relationship between the reader and Dunlap's (This Book Will Not Be Fun) unseen, tightly wound narrator. The narrator's goal seems sweet and straightforward enough: to introduce the reader, through some interactive prompts, to the pink and introverted Crunch, seen peering out from some thick foliage. But Crunch is exquisitely sensitive and eccentric, and the narrator, though struggling to stay upbeat, is clearly losing energy and patience. Urging readers to sing "Happy Birthday" to coax Crunch out, the narrator babbles a bit deliriously: "He loves birthdays because someone has one every day. He loves days in general. He's very positive." Pizzoli (Good Night Owl) draws Crunch as eager, friendly, and a total goofball; when Crunch thinks he has heard "good light" instead of "good night," he shows up with a big smile and an armful of lamps. One senses that when it is all over and Crunch goes to sleep, the narrator will do so, too. Ages 3-7. Agent for author and illustrator: Steven Malk, Writers House. (May)

PreS-K—Crunch is a hot-pink, nonthreatening dinosaur. An unseen narrator gives readers a series of directions on how to interact with him, setting up an entertaining, interactive story experience. Larger lessons about how to relate to others lurk beneath the surface of this lighthearted tale. Since Crunch is shy, the narrator suggests that readers "be the first to say hello," but not too loudly. When Crunch is scared off, luring him back involves singing the "Happy Birthday" song. Young children get practice in using quiet, loud, and medium voices, introducing themselves, and employing good manners. In the end, readers are prompted to bid Crunch good night and demonstrate how to lie down and get ready to sleep. Crunch's antics may not make this book the best for bedtime reading, but it is successful in exploring varying methods of communication. Humorous illustrations by Geisel-winner Pizzoli are rendered in an appealing childlike cartoon style, with the look of bright pastels. VERDICT Combine this book with Mo Willems's Edwina the Dinosaur Who Didn't Know She Was Extinct, Lisa Wheeler's "Dino-Sports" series, or Syd Hoff's classic Danny and the Dinosaur for a dynamic storytime. An excellent interactive choice.—Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond