Saturday 10 October 2020
Review: The Wildest Book Week Ever
This annual celebration of children's books is depicted in The Wildest Book Week Ever! by Heath McKenzie.
It begins with an intrepid journalist reporting what he sees in the wild (playground) as children arrive on the day of the annual Book Week parade.
He's a clever combination of a young student and David Attenborough.
Some students are decked out as classic literary characters you will recognise. Others are not so obvious.
From costumes that are unexpected or incredibly unique, to those that are a mix of half one thing, and half another. Not to mention the costumes that it seems everyone else thought of as well.Enthusiastic and unenthusiastic teachers also feature in costumed glory. As do the tired parents, worn out from all the preparation.
The illustrations, which are only of the characters, are colourful and expressive, with lots of movement. The children's costumes can be used to create a bit of a game with readers. See how many they can identify.
While reading, children will also be able to practice their adjectives, with words like bizarrre, awkward, recycled, messy, and perfect.
The Wildest Book Week Ever! will make you laugh, and entertain both children and adults. It might also provide some inspiration for anyone needing to create a Book Week costume.
Title: The Wildest Book Week Ever
Author/Illustrator: Heath McKenzie
Publisher: Scholastic Australia, $17.99
Publication Date: September 2020
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781760971090
For ages: 4+
Type: Picture Book
