I feel a bit guilty about giving this book such a low rating because my almost 3 year old daughter really did enjoy the illustrations. However, I was really disappointed with a story where the main character, who despite his friends' reasonable attempts to comfort him, was inconsolable until all of them were upset and crying too. I was hoping the bird would realize how much his friends cared about him, and that those feelings of being loved would overcome his experience of minor pain. I imagine that is what the author was attempting to convey as well, but it never quite got there for me. Instead we are left with a cry-baby who refuses to be happy until he has made everyone else around him miserable. I think this book might encourage a child's tendency to whine or "ham up" an injury just to get attention or to get what they want. Sorry Boo Hoo Bird! Bird and Racoon were playing a game catch when Bird got bonked in the head with the ball. It hurt, so of course he started to cry. Racoon tried to make Bird feel better but Bird just kept on crying. Other friends tried to help but nothing seemed to help. We’ve all known and probably been the Boo Hoo Bird at some time in our lives. Long after the hurt stops the tears just keep rolling. Boo Hoo Bird is a good story to have around in case of an attack of the Boo Hoos.
What do You think about Gros Bobo (2008)?
for some reason my daughter loves this book. that is why I rated it a 4.
—jess
Great read aloud! Also good for tandem readings
—Brandon
