Anton Poiter (text), Tracy Cottingham (illus), Who’s Had a Poo? and lots of other questions, Five Mile Press, Feb 2016, 32pp., $14.95 (hbk), ISBN 9781760400781
Designed for early and pre-readers, this colourful spot-the-differences picture book consists of the same 24 cutely drawn cartoon animals on each double page spread. At the top of every opening is a simple question about the animals such as “Who is taking a nap?” and the child has to find the animals that appear to be sleeping. The concept is simple but engaging and encourages proficiency in the observational and analytical skills necessary to develop reading. A plain white background allows the child to concentrate on the pictures while the uncomplicated questions refer to ideas well within the ambit of a pre-school child’s experience. The final page names each animal, complete with illustrations, and helps extend the child’s vocabulary.
A bright front cover with the novelty of holes punched through it to reveal the faces of some of the animals adds to the overall attractiveness of this entertaining and educational book. Who’s Had a Poo? and lots of other questions is the sort of book children will enjoy sharing with an adult who can guide them through the questions and pictures where required. The predicable format, the fun of solving a puzzle and the inevitable scatological mirth of discovering “Who had a poo?” will make this a picture book children three years of age and over will want to visit many times.
Reviewed by John Nolan
