Alpha Beta Chowder (Michael Di Capua Books)

Presents an alliterative humorous verse for each letter of the alphabet, including "The Enigmatic Egg," "Mishmash," and "Worrywart."

Grade 2 Up-- This zany, appealing alphabet soup provides plenty of poetry for sophisticated palates to ponder and appreciate. Beginning with an exhortation imploring Alexander the cat to eat an axolotl and ending with the sad tale of Zelda's impending demise (she's trapped in a blizzard), Jeanne Steig's witty and wacky verses challenge and amuse. Distinctive, offbeat illustrations by William Steig enhance the humor and provide glimpses of western melodrama, domestic disasters, and (possibly) a murder mystery. Although the vocabulary is undoubtedly difficult (an axolotl is a larval salamander, by the way), Steig's extensive use of alliteration along with the rollicking rhythm and rhyme (and sheer ridiculousness) of her poetry will easily engage the interest of young listeners. Middle school, young adult, and even older readers and listeners will likewise enjoy the Steigs' savory stew. While the immediate audience for this title may be relatively small, the book's appeal is timeless for it is a clever, classic collection of purely pleasurable poetry, sure to spice up any library's shelves. --Lisa Dennis, The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

This animated alphabet book, abuzz with crazy characters, brings a crooked charm to the frequent drudgery of learning one's ABCs. Jeanne Steig's verse bubbles merrily along, drolly blending abundant alliterations with downright silliness in a wonderful celebration of language. William Steig's lighthearted illustrations perfectly complement the keen wit while they add depth to the numerous people and animals conjured up in the poetry. From "Amphibian, avoid thy fate. Slither off! Absquatulate!" to "Zelda's fire has fizzled out," there is never a dull moment. In addition to their comical content, several verses offer a tongue-twisting tour de force: " ' 'Twas a year ago yesterday,' yammered the yak, /' That a youth with a yataghan jumped on my back,' " and all demand to be read out loud. The Steigs have created a splendid collaboration (similar in many respects to their Consider the Lemming ) , a veritable linguistic chowder that invites readers not to sip but to plunge wholeheartedly in. All ages.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.