Books for Us: Banana!

Confessions of a terrible father: we've been short on fodder for Books for Us because we haven't been to the public library in a very long time. Gasp! Eeek! The shame!

Actually, we've been on vacation. Kind of an excuse, but whatever. I've got to tell you about this awesome book that our little man asks for by name.

I love it because it's about sharing. I love it because little guy can read every word in the book. I love it because the drawings are full-page and it's easy to read the book's one repeated word with lots of different emotions. I love it because he loves it.

Banana!

by  Ed Vere

Published Nov. 23, 2010 by Henry Holt and Co. (978-0805092141)

The Story: One monkey finds a banana. This makes Monkey very happy. A second monkey sees and wants in on the tasty treat. A plead follows. Then a tantrum. But then the monkeys find a way they can both be happy.

What He Loves: I'm pretty sure just saying this word has the power to make any toddler smile. It may even be powerful enough to make you smile! Try it! 

Banana. 

(felt good, didn't it?)

This word repeated a handful of times and paired with some wild and crazy monkeys? Definitely a win.   I really love when little man asks to read this book: Dada? Na-nana? Ah-ah? Daddy?

What I Love: Simplicity takes talent. Ed Vere makes it look effortless. The books gives back as much as you put in, and I'm not afraid to tantrum like the worst of monkeys if it helps tell the story. And sharing stories are the best! Especially when one character spends all of his/her energy trying to convince the other to share, while the other character resists and resists until, against better judgment, finally giving in. See Also: The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!