The Mixed-Up Rooster by Pamela Duncan Edwards, pictures by Megan Lloyd.

Ned is a rooster who just can’t seem to wake up in the morning.  He’s just not a morning bird.  So Daisy Mae decides to fire him as their rooster.  Ned hides in a nearby tree and hears the replacement rooster crowing.  He hides there all day until nightfall when he meets all sorts of friendly creatures who come out at night:  bats, rabbits, and tree frogs.  Ned plays all night with them.  Then in a game of hide and seek, he hears a strange creeping noise.  A snake is sneaking into the hen house!  Ned’s night bird tendencies save the day with a little help from Daisy Mae. 

Two things make this picture book fun.  First is the vibrant illustrations that are cartoon-like and comical.  Second is the language that is filled with puns galore.  My favorite is when Ned complains about being “hen-pecked” by Daisy Mae.  This is a joy to read aloud with a fast pace that flies along.  Add this to your poultry themed storytimes for preschoolers and Kindergarteners.