Rockanimals

Caroline M. Hallsworth is a librarian at Cambrian College in Sudbury.

The “Orchestranimals,” originally introduced in a book of that same
name, have embarked on a world tour. During a visit to London, England,
their instruments are inadvertently switched with those of a rock band.
Initially, the animals panic; however, they are forced to challenge
themselves with new instruments in order to bring the music that they
love to the concert stage. Reincarnated as the “Rockanimals,” the
orchestra becomes wildly successful as a rock band.

While the plot is a little far-fetched, the story works because of the
exuberance of the animals and the exasperation of the conductor. It is
unfortunate that the musical explanations found in Orchestranimals are
not used in Rockanimals, but it is to be hoped that these tips will
reappear in any future collaborations. Eugen’s illustrations are
delightful, featuring bold animals, each of unique character and
expression.

Rockanimals is a bright, entertaining book and a welcome addition to a
child’s bookshelf.