cover image My Big Book of Animals

My Big Book of Animals

Christophe Boncens. Éditions Auzou (Continental Sales, dist.), $15.95 (22p) ISBN 978-2-7338-1944-9

French author/illustrator Boncens provides a simple introduction to animals with a book featuring textures, foil, flaps, and tabs. The book is loosely organized by habitat; the 10 groupings include “animals of the jungle” (a parrot, gorilla, panther, tiger, chameleon, and chimpanzee appear) and “animals in the water,” featuring a whale, seahorse, and clownfish. The book’s cute cartoon aesthetic and bright background colors emphasize friendliness over realism, and the interactive elements are low-key—occasional small flaps lift to reveal hidden animals and tabs let certain animals slide up and down. Ages 3–up. (Mar.)