We Dig Worms! – Kevin McCloskey

 We Dig Worms! – Kevin McCloskey, Toon Books, (9781935179801), 2015

Format: Hardcover

Rating: 1- 5 (5 is excellent or a Starred review) 4

What did you like about the book?  This is a fun and informative book that takes a look at the common worm. The informative text presents the facts and is supplemented by word balloons with more information from children and the worm itself. For example, the text states “Worms move and breathe better when it’s wet.” On the same double page spread a little boy asks in word balloons, “Mister Worm? Why do you come out after the rain?” The worm replies in its own word balloon, “It’s easier to wriggle when it’s wet!” The illustrations are painted on recycled grocery bags which complement the earthy tone of the story. Throughout the book a bright bluebird looks on hungrily: “Hey little worm! I’m hungry- want to have lunch with me?” Readers will learn about the life cycle of the worms, the various types of worms, and the important role that worms play in the environment. The book includes a page of “Tips for Parents and Teachers: How to Read Comics with Kids.” This is a Level 1 Toon Book and presents a lot of information in a fun way.

Anything you didn’t like about it? No.

To whom would you recommend this book? This is a wonderful book for budding backyard naturalists. The comic style makes this a good choice for reluctant readers.

Who should buy this book? Public libraries and elementary school libraries

Where would you shelve it? Non-fiction (592.64)

Should we (librarians/readers) put this at the top of our “to read” piles? No

Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City: Catherine Coyne, Mansfield Public Library, Mansfield, MA

Date of review: 8/3/16