By Patrick Hruby, Ammo Books, $14.95, 50 pages
What is more fun for little readers than a great board book? How about one featuring the big top circus that has just come to town? Author Patrick Hruby has combined both elements in his new chunky book called ABC is For Circus. Babies will love handling this compact board book. It is the perfect size for youngsters to open, close, study, analyze and even chew. Beginning readers who are learning their ABCs will have fun with the circus themed alphabet. Each letter is accompanied by a bold and colorful picture. A is for Acrobats. B is for Big Top. C is for Calliope. Introduce new vocabulary to youngsters. You’ll find yourself talking about ringmasters, daredevils, musical instruments, fireworks and unicycles. Teachers and parents can use the book as a way to brainstorm other alphabets lists. Have your child create their own ABC book or make up a story about each picture. Hruby’s illustrations are modern and fun. This book is durable and sure to be a favorite for a long time. Why not put all that your child has learned to good use with a trip to the circus next time it comes to town?
Reviewed by Elizabeth Franklin