Don't Laugh at Giraffe

PreS-Gr 1–In this sequel to Giraffe and Bird (Dancing Cat Bks., 2010), the sparring duo continue their unlikely friendship. Rowdy Bird instigates trouble by waking Giraffe with his loudest, chirpiest song. This results in a race that causes them to stumble over one another, making them thirsty. Bird has no trouble joining the zebra, hippo, and flamingo in the pond to cool off, but the low water level makes it difficult for the giraffe to reach down for a drink. His attempts to squat by the edge of the pond without getting his hooves wet elicit guffaws and cackles from the others. When he falls in, their mocking laughter embarrasses the giraffe so much that he slinks away and drinks from a mud puddle. Feeling sorry, the bird comes up with an idea. When they return to the pond, Bird acts so silly that the other animals laugh along–even Giraffe, who is no longer upset. Although the friends reconcile, it is unclear how this helps Giraffe overcome his fear of getting wet. The bright illustrations of acrylic on texturized illustration board are inset with small, square pictures that aptly convey the animals’ expressions. The text includes lots of action words and sound effects to move the story along, but the lack of apology from the animals who tease the giraffe and the inexplicable resolution to his fear leave the story lacking.–Martha Simpson, Stratford Library Association, CT