Never Smile at a Monkey



BIBLIOGRAPHY: Jenkins, Steve. 2009. Never Smile at a Monkey. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children. ISBN 9780618966202

PLOT SUMMARY: A book about animal natural defenses against its predators.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS: This survey informational and wonderfully illustrated book of cut and torn paper will entice the younger elementary school reader. The front cover, for example will automatic interest a potential reader. The "rules" stated for each animal, such as, "Never cuddle a [bear] cub or "Never swim with a squid" in engage older elementary students. Jenkins informs the reader on animal self defense mechanisms and how they ward off their predators. Jenkins provides facts and notes that some encounters are deadly, which may frighten the younger readers. The design of Never Smile at the Monkey is very attractive and the book will entertain as well as inform its reader. The organization adds to the book's attractiveness. The "rule" is stated separately and the fact underneath it. Some of the pictures lay-out over both pages, which is visually stimulating. With not too much information, Jenkins invokes curiosity and wonder, which is the world of animals, in general, to children.

AWARDS AND REVIEW EXCERPT(S):
From Booklist
"Although some kids might choose to never again venture outdoors, most will find the alarmist details ( a kangaroo can deliver a kick powerful enough to cave in a person's chest ) irresistible."- Chipman, Ian Copyright 2009.

From School Library Journal
"This exceptionally well-written portion of the book is generously illustrated."--Susan Weitz, formerly at Spencer-Van Etten School District, Spencer, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC

CONNECTIONS: Elementary School Science thematic unit on animals. Include other informational books by Steven Jenkins in classroom collection.