Who Would Like This Book:
If you're looking for an engaging first book for babies and toddlers, this one's a winner. The repetitive structure, interactive lift-the-flap surprises, and simple, bold illustrations make it irresistible for little hands and curious minds. It's perfect for pre-readers, helping with animal names, sounds, and even early vocabulary. Parents and grandparents will enjoy ad-libbing animal noises and watching little ones guess what's inside each flap. The book is sturdy, and the flaps hold up well to repeated reading, making it a go-to bedtime or storytime favorite.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some adults may find the premise a bit dated or take issue with the gendered language (most animals are referred to as 'he'). A few readers have raised concerns about the underlying message of returning unwanted pets, which doesn’t align with modern animal welfare values. If you’re already tired of lift-the-flap books or want a story with a deeper lesson, this might not be your top choice. Occasionally, there have also been quality issues with the book, like hard-to-open flaps or missing pages, though these seem rare.
About:
'Dear Zoo' by Rod Campbell is an interactive lift-the-flap book that follows the story of a child who writes to the zoo in search of the perfect pet. The zoo sends a variety of animals, from an elephant to a snake, each with its own flaw that makes it unsuitable as a pet. Through repetitive phrases and interactive elements, young readers are engaged in the process of discovering which animal the zoo sends next, ultimately leading to the arrival of the perfect pet, a puppy.
The book's simple yet engaging narrative style, combined with colorful illustrations and interactive flaps, makes it an ideal read for young children. It introduces them to different animals, encourages interaction through guessing games, and conveys a message of patience in finding the right match, all while maintaining a playful and entertaining tone.
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From The Publisher:
Rod Campbell's classic lift-the-flap book Dear Zoo has been a firm favorite with toddlers and parents alike ever since it was first published in 1982.
Young readers love lifting the flaps to discover the animals the zoo has sent-a monkey, a lion, and even an elephant! But will they ever find the perfect pet?
With bright, bold artwork, a catchy refrain, and a whole host of favorite animals, Dear Zoo is a must for every child's bookshelf.
Ratings (3)
Incredible (1) | |
Liked It (1) | |
It Was OK (1) |
Reader Stats (9):
Read It (3) | |
Want To Read (1) | |
Not Interested (5) |
What can you read after
Dear Zoo?
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