Don’t Squish the Sasquatch! by Kent Redeker
This is one zany ride of a picture book. When Sasquatch gets on the city bus, he expresses to the driver, Mr. Blobule, that he hopes it doesn’t get crowded because he doesn’t like to be squished. Immediately, things start to look like the bus may be crowded. There’s Miss Elephant Shark, Mr. Octo-Rhino, Miss Goat-Whale, and Miss Loch-Ness-Monster-Space Alien! Each one bigger than the last and the bus is filling up fast! You will have to read the book to see what happens when Sasquatch actually gets squished.
Children will enjoy the slow build-up to the actual squishing of Mr. Sasquatch. As each weird animal combination gets larger and larger, you just know that it’s going to happen. Then when it does, it is completely worth the wait. The book is very funny and the timing of the humor is perfect. Add a very neat twist at the end and you have a unique picture book that is worth sharing.
Staake’s art is modern, bright-colored and adds to the strangeness. The different animal combinations don’t seem to phase him at all, as he merrily creates a pink elephant shark and a purple octo-rhino. Mr. Blobule has the feel of a Muppet sitting behind his steering wheel.
This is a weird and rowdy picture book that is sure to add zest to a story time. Appropriate for ages 4-6.
Reviewed from library copy.
Waking Brain Cells 