Oonga Boonga

Krystyna J. Higgins is the former book review editor for the Catholic
New Times.

Baby Louise’s constant crying has the household—and indeed the
entire neighborhood—in an uproar. Various family members try all the
usual remedies: lullabies, rocking, a bottle, playing music, changing
her diaper, changing her position. Of course, nothing works. When big
brother Daniel arrives home from school, however, he takes one look at
Louise and says to her, “Oonga Boonga.” Magically, her tears stop.
The family soon learns that for baby Louise the “magic” lies not in
the words but in Daniel’s presence. Problem solved!

This gently comical book highlights the positive side of sibling
relationships. The text’s layout is clear and uncluttered, and the
prose follows a pattern format without becoming slavishly repetitive.

Michael Martchenko’s illustrations, as always, are boisterous, messy,
loudly exuberant—a perfect fit for the subject matter. Delightful
details reward a careful second look. For example, on the page where the
neighbors suggest different styles of music to soothe the baby, Mozart
glares disdainfully down his nose at the rock musician next to him.

This unpretentious little book effectively conveys the exasperation,
humor, and love inherent in a common family experience. Recommended.