Tom the Tamer

Gr 1–3—Tom's timid father suffers from a paralyzing fear of animals, so much so that he refuses to go outdoors, which stops him from partaking in the circuslike activities that his son enjoys (think high-flying squirrels on a trapeze). Astute Tom the Tamer comes up with a witty and charming way to cure his father of agrizoophobia. Stopping at the local Paws, Claws, Beaks & Bugs pet store, he leaves with a polar bear and a plan. Soon, his house has a new lounge chair. Tom's father enjoys the furry new furniture so much that his son cannot resist sneaking a whole menagerie into their home. When the man discovers the true nature of his tiger rug, flamingo drapes, and hippo sofa, he panics and runs outside. A happy ending ensues: Tom's father is cured when he realizes that the animals are benign, and he joins in the fun with his ingenious son. Children will absolutely love seeking out the animals on the detailed spreads of bright watercolors and exuberant lines. Though the translation is a bit awkward at times, this picture book, which has a final foldout page, is great as a lap-read or in a storytime about creative problem solving.—Jasmine L. Precopio, Fox Chapel Area School District, Pittsburgh, PA