To Bathe a Boa - Softcover

Kudrna, Imbior

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0876144903 ISBN 13: 9780876144909

Publisher: Carolrhoda Books, 1988

Synopsis

A humorous verse tale describes the battle between a youngster and his elusive reptile pet

About this title

From School Library Journal:

PreSchool-Grade 1 ``A boa has no greater wrath,/ than when he doesn't want a bath,'' so a boa owner must use any and all means to get his pet into the tub. In this caselies, food bribes, and, finally, a physical struggle before both boy and boa land in hot water. Brightly colored cartoon-style drawings filled with exaggerated proportions and humorous detail (including the boa disguised in Groucho Marx nose and glasses) typify the story's slapstick silliness. Unfortunately, the writing isn't as successful as the art in conveying the fun. The narrative rhyme is awkward, slight, and obviously forced, giving the feeling of a rushed or unfinished product. These same qualities that will elicit groans from adults will inspire giggles from children. The book will circulate, but it will supply only a few passing chuckles. Heide Piehler, Shorewood Public Library, Wis.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Publishers Weekly:

The title character in this madcap picture book is a most engaging reptile. One sympathizes with the boa's quizzical expression when his master recounts, "With soap in hand and water hot,/ I called my boa to the spot./ 'It's dinnertime,' I sweetly lied,/ but not a sound did he reply." Wisely, the boa hides out in his master's toy chest, wearing a false nose and mustache. When the boy finally finds him, a rollicking struggle ensues, and they both end up in the bath. "I should have known that I'd get wet,/ for every time I bathe my pet,/ this very thing is what I see . . . ./ My boa ends up scrubbing ME!" Readers couldn't ask for a sillier idea or a more frolicsome execution, although some of the rhymes are clumsy. But only a sourpuss would complain about this disarming book.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Carolrhoda Books
• Publication date: 1988
• ISBN 10: 0876144903
• ISBN 13: 9780876144909
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 32