Copy Crocs, the

Copy Crocs, the

Crocodile has a big imagination. But he has a big problem too. He’s always thinking up fun, new things to do like sliding through mud puddles, sunbathing by the shore, or floating downstream stretched out on a log. But no matter what he does, all the other crocs follow him and copy him—every time! Crocodile finally manages to escape his fellow crocs, only to discover a surprising truth: being by himself is not nearly as much fun as being with his friends. David Bedford has created an appealing character wrestling with a situation that will resonate with children. Artist Emily Bolam’s bold, expressive illustrations bring out the fun and humor of the story. PreSchool-Grade 4--Crocodile lives in a pool of water with many of his kind. He likes his home, but grows tired of being pushed, prodded, and crowded by the other crocs, so he sets out to find his own private space. Each time he discovers a tranquil place, his friends find him and join in the fun of his discovery. They copy him when he rolls in a mud puddle, sunbathes on the shore, floats on a log down a river, and sits on a mountaintop. Finally, Crocodile returns to his original pool and finds that he misses the warmth and companionship of his cohorts. He is happy when they return and subsequently each time he slips away on his own, he is pleased when they eventually join him. The lush full- and double-page paintings colorfully convey the subtle humor of this comical story. Painted in bright pink, Crocodile stands out from the rest of the cool-hued crowd. The rhythmic pacing and effective use of dialogue make this an ideal book for reading aloud. Pair it with George Shannon's Lizard Song (HarperTrophy, 1992) and Lizard's Guest (2003, both Greenwillow) for a storytime that celebrates silly reptiles. --Shawn Brommer, South Central Library System, Madison, WI Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. This stunning collection captures the charming contradictions of genteel Southern sensibilities in a fast-paced metropolitan setting. Used Book in Good Condition