Bibliographic Citation: Prelutsky, Jack. (2002). Scranimals. New York : Greenwillow Books
Summary: Short poems with puns and rhymes about scrambled creatures.
Reviews “Gr. 2–4, younger for reading aloud. Prelutsky and Sís follow previous titles such as
The Gargoyle on the Roof (1999) with another beautifully illustrated collection of nonsense
verse that celebrates creatures of the imagination who, described in singsong verse, are “sailing to Scranimal Island.” Each spread features a different “scrambled” creature that is often a hybrid of animal and vegetable. There is the “sleek,” snakelike Bananconda; a pride of green Broccolions; and a fierce Radishark, whose enormous, red fishhead comes complete with a radish-root snout. Prelutsky’s language is uneven, and despite the humor and some delicious rhymes, many selections are stilted and slightly forced. It is Sís’ fantastical illustrations that will generate the most excitement. His beasts shine with seemingly irrepressible personalities, and he creates a layered story in the scenes of a boy and girl who travel through the enchanted, slightly prehistoric otherworld. Read this aloud to small groups so that children can crowd up close and take in the jokes and the fantasy in the glorious images” Engberg, G. (2002). Scranimals. Booklist, 99(2), 237. Retrieved from EBSCOhost
“Gr 1-4-- Prelutsky's poems and Sís's illustrations describe "potatoads," "bananacondas," "hippopotamushrooms," and other hybrid residents of Scranimal Island. By combining the name of one animal with that of another animal, plant, or fungi, the poet shows how playing with language can lead to silliness, while still following most of nature's rules: if there were such things as "broccolions," they would logically prey upon "antelopetunias." After meeting these intriguing creatures, readers can try their hand at their own cross-pollination of species with words and pictures.” Engelfried, S. (2004). Scranimals (Book). School Library Journal, 50(6), 58. Retrieved from EBSCOhost.
Personal Impressions: I have read poems by Jack Prelutsky previously; specifically his book, A Pizza the Size of the Sun. I enjoy the humor in his poetry. When I saw this book on the list, I had not a clue what it was about. When I saw the book cover, I was even more intrigued. I found this book to be very fun and full of crazy creatures. I love how the creatures are mixed up versions of animals with fruits, vegetables, plants, and other animals. The illustrations are fun and I love how at the bottom of each poem page is a pronunciation guide for the creatures. The creatures are just so imaginative. After reading this book, I really want a Pandaffodil; a panda and daffodil hybrid.
Suggestions for Use: This is such a fun book that it has to be a read aloud. You could read it during National Poetry month or just anytime. When doing a story time on animals, this would be one to consider. A fun activity to go along with this book is to have the children create their own crazy creatures.
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