WELCOME TO THE ZOO

This whimsical zoo is a wonder. Clean oils overlaid with crackling varnish portray the busy zoo in a series of snapshots, each double-page spread offering a glimpse into fanciful human-animal interactions. While a family of four views the exhibits, the free-roaming animals observe the human visitors dressed in colorful hats and formal attire. The traditional zoo roles are hilariously reversed: The primates read the paper, but the elongated human figures, in black-and-white ensembles, resemble statuesque penguins. Numerous stories are developed continuously in this wordless narrative; each page turn enhances the drama. Smaller details shine, from a hat blowing in the wind to an ostrich’s victory over his zookeeper pursuer. Dominant characters are depicted against soft blue, gold and green backdrops; the tiger’s tongue uncurling as his mouth stretches in an enormous yawn fully captures the animal’s personality. Jay encourages the audience to peruse the pages again, offering unusual details in each viewing. Children will delight in visiting this magical place, where the wacky animals are the well-deserved premier attraction. (Picture book. 4-8)