Cabbagehead

Linda Ludke is a librarian at the London Public Library.

From “Who Invented Socks” to “Wet Pets,” the topics covered in
this witty read-aloud poetry collection are sure to delight young
readers. Loris Lesynski’s rollicking verse includes nonsense words and
irresistible tongue twisters such as “Below below baloney, / above a
blue balloon. / Cinnamon linoleum/and pack a pickle soon.” Many of the
poems explore the creative process: “Sometimes I’m a cabbagehead /
Sometimes I’m a star / Always I’m amazed by where / my best ideas
are.”

Colourful cartoon illustrations add to the fun. A boy wearing a pith
helmet and carrying a butterfly net tries to catch floating “ideas.”
Cabbages appear in imaginative ways, pictured as hot-air balloons,
yo-yos, and ice cream. Children are encouraged to play with language,
and will have a great time heeding the following advice: “Brain stiff?
/ Ideas flat? / Goofy words will FIX that!” Highly recommended.