Babak the Beetle
By : Fred Paronuzzi​ ( Translated by : Elie Brangbour) Illustrated by : Andree Prigent
(Ages 4 to 7)
Publisher : NorthSouth Books ( May 2016)
Originated in France and now translated into English, the book with it`s uplifting story line-up arouses curiosity at every page turn. It`s eye catching graphical illustrations surely will keep it`s listeners arrested till the end. Children , without doubt will enjoy this witty tale full of information.
Babak the dung beetle was rolling a "ball of dung" when suddenly an egg falls down right in-front of him from nowhere. Babak decides to help it find it`s parents. Off he goes rolling the egg until he meets Mrs. Ostrich.
"Ahem?..... / Is Someone calling me? Oh it`s you little dung beetle Might I be of assistance? / I hope so Mrs Ostrich you see I`m looking for this egg`s parents...... / It`s a strange one isn't it / it`s all dented! / You could fit ten of those in just one of mine! / It`s not from around here that`s for sure."
So he is advised to look in the woods where many birds reside. In the woods a cuckoo helps him with some tips. "You might have more luck over by the swamp." And the little dung beetle rolls his beloved egg tirelessly from the swamp where Mrs Frog resides, to the foot of the hill to meet Mrs Snake who explains to him that " Our eggs are smooth and elongated." From there, Babak walks off, still full of hope of meeting the loving parents. Through each encounter the readers will get to learn a bit about their own eggs or egg laying habits. The story has such a quirky finale, surprising as well as hilarious with an unexpected twist.
A tastefully written story full of captivating phrases with equally gorgeous illustrations to compliment the tale. An ideal read-aloud for reluctant and fidgety listeners.
