Lyle at the Office

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

-82742-6. The author/artist's droll wit shines through both these titles; the first, featuring Waber's famous and much-loved crocodile hero, earned a starred review from PW. Ages 4-8. (Oct.)

School Library Journal

PreS-Gr 2-Crocodile fans rejoice! Lyle is back and ready to take on the work world. When he visits Mr. Primm at his advertising office, he is an instant success. He sharpens pencils, delivers memos, and makes many friends. After listening to him munch his way through a box of Krispie Krunchie Krackles, Mr. Bigg, the big boss attempts to recruit Lyle as a spokesreptile for the cereal. Mr. Primm refuses to allow his friend to pose for the ad and is fired. On Halloween night, while answering a desperate cry for help coming from an abandoned house, the family discovers Mr. Bigg hanging from a ceiling fixture. Lyle picks up the ladder and helps their new neighbor climb down. The happy ending is complete when Mr. Primm is invited to return to the agency. This is another appealing installment in the adventures of lovable Lyle. Contemporary touches, such as a pair of working moms (Mrs. Primm and Lyle's mother) and a company day-care center, bring this classic crocodile into the '90s. Although the plot unfolds a little bit like a sitcom, the text reads smoothly and builds to a neat conclusion. Waber's trademark watercolor and crayon illustrations are filled with warmth and humor. Lyle's always expressive face shines with pride while showing baby pictures of the youngest Primm, clouds with worry while listening to pleas for help, and smiles with contentment when everything turns out right. Totally satisfying.-Joy Fleishhacker, New York Public Library