This fun book showcases 50 familiar nursery rhymes illustrated by 50 cartoonists. Don't let the gimmick fool you, though: this is an exceptional and comprehensive introduction to some of the best early childhood poetry. Preschoolers will enjoy hearing "Hey, Diddle Diddle," "The Owl and the Pussycat," and "Pat a Cake," among others. Older children and adults will appreciate the art by some of the best contemporary cartoonists, including Jules Feiffer, Patrick McDonnell, and Dave Roman. Each rhyme features art in styles that ranges from cute to whimsical to downright bizarre. Often the illustrator expands on the brief story told in the rhyme, adding new subplots, like when a pigeon flies off with the hot cross buns, or when we discover that the old lady who lived in a shoe formed her own rock and roll band with all of the kids. It's hard to pick a favorite, but readers of all ages will enjoy trying! An editor's note offers some historical perspective on nursery rhymes and our culture, while the final pages introduce each of the contributors.
Jeanette Larson is a children's literature specialist, retired librarian, and the author of Hummingbirds: Facts and Folklore from the Americas.
