All Afloat on Noah's Boat!

N ot surprisingly, the team behind such raucous picture books as Dinosaurumpus! delivers a Noah's Ark adaptation featuring effervescent rhyming text and playful, cartoon illustrations. Kids won't want to miss a beat of the action once Noah (donning an orange life vest) calls “All aboard the Ark Hotel!” When literal cabin fever puts all the animal pairs on edge, Noah finds a clever solution: he stages an animal talent show. Among other feats, the elephants blow fountains of water, the caterpillars wrap themselves in cocoons and the snakes tie themselves in knots. Children may well guess the ending, which includes the caterpillar's transformative, high-flying finale. This energetic and silly cruise ship take on the tale focuses on fun, but also shines a respectful light on many of God's fine creations. Parker-Rees's wide-eyed critters cutting a rug or cheering on their pals possess a memorable cheerfulness. Ages 4-8. (May)