Thursday 24 October 2013

That Is Not a Good Idea by Mo Willems (Walker Books)


That Is Not a Good Idea

Written and Illustrated by
Mo Willems

Published by Walker Books

We're used to Mo Willems' knockabout humour with his beloved "Pigeon" series of books, but here things take a decidedly darker turn - with a delicious twist in the tale of "That is Not a Good Idea".

The book, laid out in a faux silent movie style, details the story of a wily fox as he meets a young and slightly dizzy looking chicken while out for a walk in the market one day.

Using all his wicked charms and evil eyebrow-hypnosis, the fox convinces the innocent hen to accompany him for a walk. Chicks warn that "that is NOT a good idea" but the hen doesn't listen! That's where the twist comes in, as you'll find out at the end of the book. We'll say no more.

Loved the narrative in this. Kids love repetition in stories to reinforce a point, particularly when the pay off is so satisfying and unexpected. It's really NOT a good idea to miss this book!


Charlotte's best bit: A lovely happy supper at the end (with a twist!)

Daddy's Favourite bit: Fiendish, dark and mischievous. Just the way we like our Mo Willems books!