Critters of the Night (Step into Reading)

Jack Howl can't wait to teach his son, Axel, to howl like him.  Wanda plans to show her daughter, Thistle, how to fly just the way she does.  But the kids have other ideas in this lighthearted jab at gender stereotypes that will make young readers howl.  

Kindergarten-Grade 3. A gimmicky, less-than-satisfying offering. The wolflike Howls, modeled after the "Adams Family," are depicted in bold full-color cartoons. Father Jack tries to teach his son, Axel, to howl, but to no avail. Mother Wanda, tries to teach daughter Thistle to fly, but to no avail. The parents are thoroughly discouraged, and the children are in tears. Axel and Thistle tuck their parents into bed, and visit the cook. This toad-like creature tries to bake a magic pie so the children can learn their lessons. Thistle's so angry and frustrated that she lets out a howl and wakes her parents. They are amazed at her ability, and convince Axel to try flying. He succeeds, and all are satisfied with their newfound, yet unexpected, talents. Natalie Standiford's The Best Little Monkeys in the World (1987) and Kathryn Cristaldi's Baseball Ballerina (1992) are better titles in the series. Better yet, stick with Mercer Mayer's original "Little Critter" (all Random) series.?Christina Dorr, Calcium Primary School, NY
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