Discover your next great read with our book reviews
Cover of That Is Not a Good Idea!

That Is Not a Good Idea!

by Mo Willems

Book Details

Publisher:Balzer + Bray
Published:2013-04-23
Pages:48
Format:BOOK
Language:en

Reading Info

About This Book

A surprising lesson about the importance of listening to one's inner gosling ensues when a very hungry fox issues a dinner invitation to a very plump goose. By the Caldecott Honor-winning creator of Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! 200,000 first printing.

Our Review

This clever picture book delivers a masterclass in suspense and visual storytelling, following a hungry fox who invites a plump goose to dinner with predictably sinister intentions. Willems crafts the narrative like a silent film, complete with intertitles and dramatic framing that builds tension with each page turn. Young readers will delight in spotting the chorus of concerned goslings who try to warn about the obvious danger, creating an interactive experience that encourages participation.

What makes this story truly brilliant is its unexpected twist that subverts predator-prey expectations and teaches children to trust their instincts. The deceptively simple illustrations carry immense emotional weight, from the fox's exaggerated villainy to the goose's surprisingly savvy demeanor. Children who enjoy being in on the joke will find this both thrilling and empowering, while adults will appreciate the sophisticated storytelling wrapped in accessible packaging. It's a cautionary tale that turns tables with wit and style, leaving readers both satisfied and just a little bit wiser.

Themes

Juvenile Fiction

Subjects

Juvenile Fiction