The Crocodile Who Didn't like Water
K-Gr 2—A little crocodile just can't get too enthused about the water, unlike his siblings, who splash and play in it with abandon. The little guy even uses his tooth fairy money to buy a swim ring. Alas, it is not a helpful solution. Just when he is at his lowest, he feels a sneeze coming on. Lo and behold, out shoots a sizable flame, hilariously setting a diving board on fire. He's actually a dragon! On the following pages, he uses his newly discovered talents to treat his brothers and sisters to a ride in a hot-air balloon and eventually on his winged back. Merino hits it out of the park with delightful artwork that will immediately endear the little dragon to readers and have them giggling cover to cover. She writes with a light, clear hand, letting the illustrations deliver the humor. Readers should look closely for neat little details, adding even more charm to this sweet, funny book about celebrating differences.—Alyson Low, Fayetteville Public Library, AR