Where Are Momma, Poppa, and Sister June? - Hardcover

PreSchool-Grade 1-Young readers will empathize with the hero of this story, who comes home to an unexpectedly empty house. He is plagued with questions- where is his family? Were they eaten by a giant crocodile? Were they zapped into space by aliens? Did the swamp critter drag them away? What's this note that the dog is chewing up? Could it be from a kidnapper? It could be, but as Momma, Poppa, and sister June walk through the door, the panicky little boy realizes it's a note saying they have gone out to get a pizza and will be back soon. Gackenbach handles this scary childhood situation well, writing in a light tone and supplying a reassuring, humorous conclusion. The dog adds warmth and humor to the tale and acts as a believable catalyst for the plot. The affable cartoon illustrations work well with the text, particularly as the child imagines the many possible demises of his family. A good launching point for discussion.
Elizabeth Hanson, Chicago Public Library
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.