A troop of kangaroos : a book of animal group names
(Book)

PreS-K--When animals come together in groups, they are given unique names that have amusing second meanings. Whether it is a stench of skunks, a chattering of chickens, or a camp of bats, each descriptive label stands out from the rest, especially when compared to human activities of the same name. In this book, young readers are introduced to animal group nomenclature in an accessible and memorable way. Each featured animal is first depicted in its natural environment opposite a page that states its group name. Then, that animal is shown in the next spread engaging in a relevant activity and behaving in markedly human ways. As readers view jays at a party or elephants in a parade, they are building strong mental pathways that will help them remember this new terminology. Very limited vocabulary is used within the book, appearing in a repetitive and predictable fashion with ample white space behind. Important words stand out in bold font and complementary hues, enhancing textual awareness for young readers. Collage-style, digitally rendered illustrations are used throughout the book, incorporating vibrant color and a wealth of detail that will engage readers of all ages. Carefully chosen elements appear in each image that enhance their appeal through humor and unexpected connections. A selection of additional animal groups is found at the end to add even more information to this enjoyable book. VERDICT This is an accessible introduction to nonfiction literature for very young readers that educates as it entertains.--Mary Lanni, formerly at Denver P.L.

Mundorff playfully portrays collective nouns for animal groups in this good-natured roundup. In addition to the title troop (envisioned as participating in a variety of outdoor activities at Scout camp), there's a "stench of skunks" (complete with smelly locker room), a "business of ferrets" (depicted in a scene that could be straight out of The Office), and twelve more (six of which are listed at book's end). The text might be light on substance, but Mundorff's brightly colored digital-collage illustrations are full of humorous details. (c) Copyright 2023. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

PreS-K—When animals come together in groups, they are given unique names that have amusing second meanings. Whether it is a stench of skunks, a chattering of chickens, or a camp of bats, each descriptive label stands out from the rest, especially when compared to human activities of the same name. In this book, young readers are introduced to animal group nomenclature in an accessible and memorable way. Each featured animal is first depicted in its natural environment opposite a page that states its group name. Then, that animal is shown in the next spread engaging in a relevant activity and behaving in markedly human ways. As readers view jays at a party or elephants in a parade, they are building strong mental pathways that will help them remember this new terminology. Very limited vocabulary is used within the book, appearing in a repetitive and predictable fashion with ample white space behind. Important words stand out in bold font and complementary hues, enhancing textual awareness for young readers. Collage-style, digitally rendered illustrations are used throughout the book, incorporating vibrant color and a wealth of detail that will engage readers of all ages. Carefully chosen elements appear in each image that enhance their appeal through humor and unexpected connections. A selection of additional animal groups is found at the end to add even more information to this enjoyable book. VERDICT This is an accessible introduction to nonfiction literature for very young readers that educates as it entertains.—Mary Lanni, formerly at Denver P.L.