Book Review: Peek-A-Boo Haiku: A Lift-the-Flap Book
Peek-A-Boo Haiku: A Lift-the-Flap Book by Danna Smith – A Delightful Journey for Young Readers
Introduction: A Playful Twist on Poetry
Imagine a book that combines the whimsy of hide-and-seek with the elegance of haiku—Peek-A-Boo Haiku: A Lift-the-Flap Book by Danna Smith does exactly that. This charming board book is a feast for little hands and curious minds, blending interactive flaps with the rhythmic beauty of Japanese poetry. Whether you’re a parent looking for an engaging read-aloud or a caregiver searching for a book that encourages early literacy, this gem stands out in the crowded world of children’s literature.
But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive deep into what makes Peek-A-Boo Haiku a must-have for young readers—and why adults might just fall in love with it too.
Plot Summary: A Hide-and-Seek Adventure in Verse
Peek-A-Boo Haiku isn’t a traditional narrative, but rather a series of playful, nature-themed haikus that invite children to lift flaps and discover hidden surprises. Each spread features a short, three-line poem hinting at an animal or object concealed beneath a sturdy flap. From a tiny ladybug hiding under a leaf to a sleepy owl tucked away in a tree, the book transforms reading into an interactive game.
The structure is simple yet brilliant:
- A haiku sets the scene.
- The child lifts the flap to reveal the hidden subject.
- The discovery reinforces word association, rhythm, and curiosity.
Without giving away too many surprises, the book covers a delightful range of creatures and natural elements, making it a joyous exploration of the world around us.
Character Analysis & Development: Nature as the Star
Since this is a concept book rather than a character-driven story, the “characters” are the animals and elements of nature themselves. Each one is brought to life through:
- Vivid imagery (e.g., “A whisper of wings / flutters high above the ground / peek-a-boo, it’s…”)
- Engaging interactions (the flaps make the animals feel like they’re playing with the reader)
- Sensory appeal (the rhythmic language mimics the sounds and movements of nature)
While there’s no deep character arc, the book excels in making these creatures feel alive and interactive, fostering a sense of wonder in young readers.
Writing Style & Narrative Technique: The Magic of Haiku Meets Play
Danna Smith’s writing is where Peek-A-Boo Haiku truly shines. Traditional haikus follow a 5-7-5 syllable structure, and Smith adapts this beautifully for young audiences by:
- Keeping the language simple yet evocative
- Using repetition and anticipation to build excitement
- Pairing each poem with an interactive element (the flaps)
The result is a book that teaches poetic form without feeling didactic. Instead, it feels like a game—one that parents won’t mind playing over and over.
Thematic Exploration: Nature, Discovery, and the Joy of Surprise
At its core, Peek-A-Boo Haiku is about:
- Curiosity – Encouraging kids to explore and ask, “What’s hiding here?”
- Nature appreciation – Introducing animals and natural phenomena in a gentle, engaging way
- Rhythm and language – Building early literacy through poetic structure
It’s a subtle yet effective way to instill a love of both poetry and the natural world.
Personal Reading Experience: Why My Toddler (And I) Love It
As a parent, I’ve read my fair share of lift-the-flap books, but Peek-A-Boo Haiku stands out for its elegance. Unlike some interactive books that rely solely on gimmicks, this one marries substance with play. My toddler loves the anticipation of lifting each flap, and I appreciate the lyrical quality—it doesn’t feel repetitive or tiresome after multiple reads.
Emotionally, the book creates a sense of warmth and connection. There’s something magical about watching a child’s face light up when they uncover the hidden image, and the haikus add a layer of sophistication that most flap books lack.
Comparison to Other Works in the Genre
How does Peek-A-Boo Haiku stack up against other lift-the-flap or poetry books for kids?
- Vs. Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell – Both are interactive, but Peek-A-Boo Haiku adds a poetic twist.
- Vs. Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney – Less sentimental, more playful and rhythmic.
- Vs. Haiku Baby by Betsy Snyder – Similar in poetic style, but the flaps give Smith’s book an edge in engagement.
If you’re looking for a book that’s more than just flaps and surprises—one that also introduces literary form—this is a winner.
Strengths & Minor Weaknesses
Strengths:
✅ Unique concept – Combining haiku with lift-the-flap is genius.
✅ Sturdy construction – Thick flaps hold up to rough toddler hands.
✅ Educational yet fun – Introduces poetry without feeling like a lesson.
Minor Weaknesses:
❌ Limited diversity in animals – Mostly woodland creatures; could have included more variety.
❌ Short length – At 14 pages, some readers might wish for more.
Target Audience: Who Will Love This Book?
- Ages 1-4 – Perfect for toddlers who love interactive books.
- Parents who appreciate lyrical writing – A refreshing break from overly simplistic board books.
- Early educators – Great for introducing poetry and nature themes.
Memorable Quotes & Passages
One of my favorite spreads:
“A whisper of wings / flutters high above the ground / peek-a-boo, it’s…”
(Lift the flap to reveal a beautiful butterfly!)
The simplicity and rhythm make these lines unforgettable.
Cultural & Historical Context: The Haiku Tradition
Haiku, a traditional Japanese poetic form, is rarely adapted for young children in such an accessible way. Smith’s book serves as a gentle introduction to this art form, planting the seeds for future poetry appreciation.
Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Little Bookworms
Peek-A-Boo Haiku is more than just a lift-the-flap book—it’s a celebration of language, nature, and discovery. Danna Smith has crafted something truly special, blending playfulness with poetic beauty. Whether you’re building a baby’s first library or looking for a unique gift, this book is a treasure.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Discussion Questions for Readers:
- What’s your favorite interactive children’s book?
- Do you think poetry can be engaging for toddlers?
- How do you feel about lift-the-flap books in general—love them or find them fragile?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments! 📚💬
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