No Tooting at Tea

Reviewed by: Connie Smith - Breakwater School, Portland, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: November 6, 2017

Review

"No Tooting at Tea," is engaging and hilarious! An invitation to a tea party with "rules" leads one to anticipate the breaking of those rules. "No Tooting at Tea," is in danger of bringing mouth covered giggles from its intended audience. A "perfect tea party," is hosted by an older sister, who tries to instruct the younger sisters in the rules of tea party etiquette. When the older sister begins to spout off rules, she is interrupted by rude noises. The "tooting" is blamed on the dog and other various toys in the yard. As the older sister cancels the tea party and heads to the kitchen with cups,saucers, and treats,she realizes that the "tooting" is actually emanating from the teakettle on the stove. Embarrassed, she reconvenes the tea party. At the tea party's conclusion, the oldest sister, herself, accidentally "toots." The younger sisters, ever forgiving and gracious, show their good manners by stating, "you never said there was no tooting AFTER tea." "No Tooting at Tea," is funny and clever with well planned page turns and good repetition of text. Could be used to introduce a discussion of good manners in any situation.

Overall Book Score: very good