George McClements

When seven animals find out their home is going to be bulldozed to make way for a factory, they come up with a plan to protect it: they build a costume and pretend to be a dinosaur. When they get found out, the people decide not to tear down the woods because (SPOILER) they find out all the animals are endangered and decide to protect them.

A few problems with this book: there's a weird mix of make-believe and reality. I can imagine having a hard time trying to explain what's real and what's imaginary to a little kid. Also, the book says the snake is extinct, but it's obviously not if there's one living in the woods. It should've said the people THOUGHT he was extinct.

I'm giving this three stars because I really like the illustrations, but I'd only give the writing two.… (meer)

This is a humorous tale of the antics of a young finicky eater at the dinner table. Even the slightest touch of one tiny pea to his lips will transform him into a Veggie Monster with the ability to smash chairs and tip tables. It personifies the emotional and physical struggle children experience when they do not want to eat their vegetables at the dinner table. Many young readers will relate to this story especially those who are reluctant to eat their veggies. The plot builds steadily through both text and illustration to the climactic accidental gulping of the pea.

Critical Analysis: This story contains so many elements that comprise a good book, both in text and illustrations and it addresses a universal common childhood theme, with humor. The illustrations in this first-person narrative, imaginatively place you in your own seat at the table to watch the unfolding dinner scene. The size of the book, how a child might hold it, and the use of real photographs of food support this idea. This provides an emotional link for the reader.

Favorite quote: :Time for another fun filled hour.:… (meer)

This story is set in a family’s home, at their dinner table. What would seem to be an ordinary time for most, is a dreaded experience for one young boy and his mom and dad as it means he is going to be eating peas, which does not make him happy. While reading this book, I was waiting to meet “The Veggie Monster” – curious whether it would be an evil vegetable or if the boy would fully transform into a monster after eating his peas. While he did engage in some full-body reactions such as “wiggly” fingers, watery eyes, “toes [that] twist and curl up” and a “squirm in his seat”, he still resembled a human boy (McClements, 2008). Overall, the plot is relatable to children and care takers alike, as dinner time can be a struggle for picky eaters. This story is written to appeal to children and adults – with the perspective of both shared in the book. While I was hoping to see a more transformation experience both with the boy becoming a veggie monster and the boy over-coming his distaste for peas, and also broccoli, it was slightly lackluster.… (meer)