Children’s Book Review: Little Beauty
July 8, 2009 by Karlynn Johnston
Filed under Book Nook
I really liked this book, and if the author was trying to make us feel very sad that the gorilla in the zoo was unhappy,then it worked. It really tugs at your heartstrings, and is a very happy book all in all, with a good storyline. I mention below the part my son didn’t like, but up until then, it was a very cute read about a very unique friendship. The illustrations are not only beautiful but heartwarming as well, the ones where the gorilla is cuddling with the kitty are just so incredibly sweet. Kids will definitely love the parts where the kitty is using the litterbox and the gorilla is on the toilet, nothing entertains kids like a little potty humor thrown in!
Reading level: ages 4-8
Page Count: 32 pages
Publisher: Candlewick
What to expect: It is a sad story at the beginning, the gorilla wants a friend and is very lonely.Then he gets a kitty and is so happy, until he smashes a TV when he’s mad, and they threaten to take the kitty away. My son was very upset and refused to actually read the book at the point where the gorilla smashed the TV. So again, for sensitive young children,not highly recommended. It ends in a very happy way though!
Publisher’s synopsis:Once there was a very special gorilla who had almost everything he needed. There was only one thing he didn’t have: a friend. With no other gorillas at the zoo, the keepers try something new. Will the gigantic ape strike a bond with another sort of creature, one as tiny and innocent as a kitten? Sparked by the story of a real gorilla who learned to sign, LITTLE BEAUTY is a celebration of a most surprising friendship.
About the Author: Anthony Browne, a Hans Christian Andersen Medalist, is the author-illustrator of many acclaimed books for children, including SILLY BILLY. He lives in Kent, England.
Our Rating: 4 out of 5
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