PHOOEY!
By Marc Rosenthal
That pretty much sums up my attitude. Oh wait, we're not talking politics, are we? This is a kids' book. Gotcha.
There's not much text, but you don't need it. You take one bored kid in a small town, and let him kick a tin can and see what happens. Add a stray cat, an elephant, some pirates, a bucket of paint, a tray of pies, and much else, as that kicked can sets off ripples of activity.
And the boy notices none of it. Typical! The slapstick works well here, keeping eager eyes busy roaming over the pages for the next sight gag. It has a retro look, like a 1930s comic; think Rin-Tin-Tin with attitude.
I've already read it to Seth several times, Mr. "I'm soooo bored" himself, and he recognized himself in it. It's now the most dogearred, food-stained mess he owns, a high honor.
A fun one for a rainy day, or to make a point, or just for a laugh.
Rating: *\*\*\
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