I loved Tim Miller’s art in Snappsy the Alligator (Julie Falatko’s story as well), so naturally I was eager to read Moo Moo in a Tutu, Tim’s debut as both author and illustrator.
And it delivers.
How? Let me count the ways.
- The title. Rhythmic. Musical. Evocative.
- The marquee-esque title page that introduces the two main characters.
- The spot art images on the copyright/dedication spread that tell us something about their friendship before the story even begins.
- The friends’ first exchange, which says so much in so few words. (Oh, and the bonsai.)
- The premise: A cow decides to become a ballerina. She doesn’t aspire to become one—she just sews herself a tutu and takes the leap. Literally. First in her home, then onstage at the City Ballet. Both to somewhat disastrous results.
- The slapstick humor. (See: disastrous results.)
- Quirky asides. Like when Mr. Quackers, in the audience, offers his highbrow neighbor a treat.
- Details, details. When Moo Moo hangs up her tutu, we get a glimpse of her other brilliant ideas: a superhero costume, rollerskates, baseball, goggles, Viking hat . . .
- PLUS that city setting, the high-rise apartment, and those bunk beds (I love that Moo Moo’s got the top one):
- The “Ha!” ending, which assures us that Moo Moo’s calamitous performance as a ballerina hasn’t discouraged her in the least. (Sorry—no spoilers here.)
And a bonus reason: It reminded me of two other fabulous friends:
Check it out!
G I V E A W A Y W I N N E R ! ! !
The winner of If You Were the Moon from the August interview with Laura Purdie Salas is Danielle Dufayet. Danielle, please send me an email with your mailing address. Thank you!
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Oh my goodness, I am cracking up! I have to read this one. Thanks for sharing!
It’s really funny, Myrna. I bet you’ll enjoy it!
Ha! This quacks me up! Cannot wait to read this!
Ha! It quacked me up too, Kim. 🙂
This looks adorable. I love a quirky PB! Thank you for the review and congratulations Tim. This is going on my (ever growing) list!
Oh, I know–the list!! Yes, love the quirky PBs. Thanks, Elizabeth!
Oh, yeah. I’m loving everything about this. Must have!
It’s really fun, Jill. Bet the grand babies will like it too. 🙂
I can’ wait to read and share Moo Moo in a Tutu! It should win a prize for best title of the year.
Isn’t the title great? Thanks for reading, Claire!
This book looks like a hoot! Or I mean a MOO. 🙂
Yes, a moo AND a hoot! Thanks, Angie!
Wow, this is a sure winner -what fun! I can’t wait to read it!
Thanks, Danielle. And congrats on winning IF YOU WERE THE MOON!
Cant wait to read and share it!
I bet you’ll enjoy it, Rosemary!
Madcap funny adventures – this one is for me! Look the peeks inside.
Yes, hooray for madcap! I bet you’ll like it, Cathy!
I really enjoyed what Tim did on Snapsy, so I’ll have to check these out. Thanks for the great breakdown of what makes this great.
Yes, Snappsy was so funny (and there’s a new one coming out soon). I think you’ll like this one too. Thanks, Mike!
This looks hilarious. I love George & Martha!! I am also reminded a bit of The Far Side by some of the illustrations.
Thanks for sharing, Linda 🙂
Yes, it’s very funny. And I can see some Far Side too now that you mention it. Thanks, Maria! 🙂
I love a great friendship story. This one looks terrific.
Well, well, well . . . isn’t this the cutest book!
I think your review of Moo Moo in a Tutu is as spot on as Tim’s story and illustrations. I love the unending support Mr. Quackers gives Moo Moo, and I love how Moo Moo models perseverance. A great pb for everyone!
This made me laugh out loud. Cannot wait to read it!
Just the few highlights you’ve shown made me giggle. I definitely have to read this one!
This looks great! I can’t wait to read it.
Moo Moo, Mr. Quackers, & me can’t thank you enough for your post Linda! You made our day, especially the George and Martha reference because they were a big inspiration! A big thank you to everybody else as well for sharing your thoughts and feedback!
Hey, Tim! So glad you saw the post. We love the book, as you can see. Thanks for stopping by!
What fun!! ♡
Oh, the title alone has me sold!
Haven’t read this one yet, but after your post, Linda, I will soon remedy that.