Books.org participates in affiliate programs including Bookshop.org and the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you.
Overview
Dragonflies zip zip zip and frogs croakity croak while bare feet splish splash in this board book all about the sounds of the river. Each spread features a touch and feel element that creates the sound described in the text. With beautiful illustrations, interesting textures and fun sounds, this highly interactive format is certain to tickle the senses.
Editorials
Children's Literature -
The collage illustrations are a delight and the first image is that of a dragonfly dipping down for a drink. Pull the tab and the wings flutter and also reveal the long tail. Crayfish pinch the grass while minnows dash and dart. The sound if their slipping around is made by running a finger over a piece of corrugated cardboard. The frogs are supposed to croak, but the sound that seems the most realistic is the beavers munching away on wood. The final scene depicts a youngster dangling feet in the water and splashing. The foil when rubbed makes a slight sound, but the appeal is actually more visual. Called a "Touch & Hear" book, the sounds are made by touching the textures on the pages. Some work better than others and in some cases the sounds generated are a bit questionable. Reviewer: Marilyn CourtotKirkus Reviews
Not all interactive elements are created equal in this mild outing to the pond.
For those who draw near this wee body of water, the senses of sound and touch expose the crunch of a log or the sparkly drops splashed by energetic feet. All inhabitants approach for their own purpose; the dragonfly takes a dip, while beavers munch their lunch. The final spread brings in a child's perspective as legs dangle under the surface. Thin ribbed board and Velcro strips add a smidgen of texture, though their placement is not always intuitive or easily manipulated. It's a struggle to grasp the intricate tab to pull the insect's wings, and the crayfish pinchers are simply flimsy, likely to be bitten or pulled off in a single instance. Crisp phrases ("crickety croak," "snip snip / snap snap") convey the noises heard at the pond. Simple sentences—"Frogs join in song"—visually integrate themselves into the layout of bluish-green spreads; their curving lines become part of the design.
Not enough consistency in the tactile presentation to warrant a dive down deep. (Board book. 6 mos.-2)