Review: Animalia

By: Graeme Base

Harry N. Abrams; 1987 (2004 reprint); 32 pages

Picture Book; Alphabet Book

Grades: Kindergarten thru Adult

ISBN: 0-8109-1939-7

A menagerie of animals romp through the alphabet doing all sorts of alliterative activities.

My Thoughts:

This is one of the most beautifully illustrated alphabet books I have ever clapped eyes on. It goes far beyond the "A is for Apple, B is for Ball" format of this genre's majority. Each letter is represented by a different animal doing something odd and interesting in an alliterative format. (For example: Diabolical dragons daintily devouring delicious delicacies.)

Honestly, the vocabulary is such that younger children will most likely be unable to read it independently. So, as far as its use as a typical alphabet book, it would be less than desirable. Yet, while the text may be over their heads, the beauty and intricacy of the illustrations will keep them enraptured! It also is a delightful read aloud book. The vocabulary can be made sense of through context and depiction. (I have never agreed with talking down to children. This book is a fun way to expose kids to words like: basking, impromptu, jovial, and upending.) Furthermore, the book can be used to teach older elementary students about the literary technique of alliteration.

The Thoughts of Others:

Aussie Reviews had some very insightful comments about this classic in a review by Tash Williams. Tash described the animals images as "bizarre and interesting." Tash also noted the broad based appeal, citing that various age groups are "looking at the levels that are appropriate [to them]...unaware of shared levels within."

Publisher's Weekly also reviewed the book when it was originally released in the 80's. While the overall review was positive, they did point out a few of its shortcomings. These included that "it lacks a clear conceptual coherence or unity of action or meaning on every page."