Zoo in Me

Zoo in Me by Susan Pease, illustrated by Olivia Pease (Little Steps Publishing)
HB RRP $24.95
ISBN 9781921928956
Reviewed by Vicki Stanton

Zoo in Me is a story and an alphabet book rolled into one. Friends Kat and Toby meet for a play date  All the essential ingredients are gathered: chocolate cake, crayons and paper, big and small blocks, and, best of all, animal dress-ups.

The two friends have a dress-up race to the end of the alphabet. Not only do they dress-up as an animal but they also choose an emotion, thought or action. There's everything from interested iguanas to racy rabbits! Both children try hard to win the race and discover that there's a reason for their different moods. Toby holds a drawing in front of his tummy and says, 'If you x-ray me, you will see ... (t)here are lots of animals in me.' Kat agrees, declaring that 'there is a zoo in me.'

Created by a mother and daughter team, Susan Pease's text is engaging and eleven-year-old Olivia Pease's illustrations are quirky and fun. Young children are sure to spend much time poring over them, pointing out such inclusions as the blocks which spell out the animals' names.

Zoo in Me is beautifully presented in hardback with quality paper and would make a lovely gift.