At the Circus

Diane Clark is research services librarian in the Cameron Library at the
University of Alberta.

At the Circus, the latest book for toddlers in the What’s That Sound?
series, describes sights and sounds you might experience if a circus
came to town. There are elephants trumpeting, clowns hooting and
hollering, poodles dancing, tigers roaring, and horses with glittery
riders clomping. The story ends with a ride home in the wagon and a sign
of love from the parent.

By the Sea begins early in the morning with the foghorn waking the
town. First to rise are the sea lions that bark, bellow, and roar; next
are the seagulls that screech. Local fishing boats are rocked by
slapping waves. Children “pat, pat” the sand they use building
castles on the beach. The sails of a sailboat snap in the wind. This
story also ends with an expression of love by a parent.

In both board books, the rhyming, rhythm, and alliteration make an
exciting read for a toddler. The well-chosen words express excitement
and create a cognitive connection using the visual and auditory channels
needed to learn language.

The books’ illustrations are bright, colourful, and filled with
interesting, tiny details that keep toddlers engaged. Images are a
combination of Dr. Seuss–like treatment and Popeye-era comic books.
The curvilinear treatment of the lines and shapes moves the reader
throughout the story.

Toddlers will enjoy these books. Both are recommended.