'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Saturday 17 September 2011

Review: Teach Your Buffalo to Play Drums


What would you do if your buffalo spent much of the day clanging pots and pans in the kitchen? You’d realise he needs you to teach him how to play the drums, of course!

This may seem an odd thing to do, but come on – didn’t people think you were odd when you first brought that baby buffalo home?

So, yes, your buffalo wants to learn the drums. I know, I know, he also wanted to learn to ice skate, surf, do magic tricks and learn Chinese (the language CDs and all the other paraphernalia are still in the back of his closet) but he promises this time, he’ll commit.

Are you worried about how you’ll go about teaching your buffalo the drums? Worry no more, this superlative guide will show you exactly how – taking you through each vital step in the process. There’s even advice on how to tie the drumsticks to his hoofs if he has trouble holding them, and of course – how to do some serious sound-proofing (you might need a spade).

Parents will love this book for the ‘oh boy, now she wants to learn the drums, last week it was the violin’ issue we all know so well. Kids will love it for the humour, warmth and kookiness, and everyone will love it for the truly hilarious illustrations.

I’m loving the way the author has written in the second person; so unusual for picture books and often difficult to do – but in this book it works, lending a sort of quirkiness to the voice of the story. I’m also loving the ending, which is totally unpredictable but so predictable of children, you’ll find yourself grinning from ear to ear.

Title: Teach Your Buffalo to Play Drums
Author: Audrey Vernick
Illustrator: Daniel Jannewein
Publisher: Balzer + Bray, $24.99
Publication Date: 1 July 2011
ISBN: 9780061762536
Format: Hard cover with dust jacket
For ages: 5 – 10
Type: Picture Book