Sock Monkey Boogie-Woogie

Reviewed by: Carla McAllister - New Gloucester Public Library, New Gloucester, Maine, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: February 17, 2016

Review

Sock Monkey, being a famous toy-actor, is invited to The Big Celebrity Dance for famous toys. There is a dilemma, however, in that all his friends are going to be away on that date. He needs a suitable dance partner pronto. What to do? After advertising for a partner and interviewing many potential applicants, none will really do; The toy phone is always on a call, the toy teeth has halitosis, and the top only knows how to twirl! Sock Monkey redefines the meaning of 'making a friend' when he has a brainstorm; he makes a dance partner from a hat and sweater, some socks, and cotton. Voila! He has made Sock Buddy. Strangely, Sock Buddy makes fantastic cupcakes, but will he be able to dance? The illustrations are hilarious, filled with many beloved toys for children to spot. There are lots of humorous things taking place and readers will want to take time to enjoy every page. Pay particular attention to the spread of all the toys dancing. The endpages are nostalgic with a gray, black and white argyle pattern. This is one to consider for picture shelves everywhere.

Overall Book Score: very good