BIG GORILLA

Kids are in for some monkey business.

This U.K. import about opposites is illustrated in watercolors and gouache and given a simian twist in Browne’s inimitable, endearing style. Beautifully rendered primates present pairs of opposites as questions: “What’s the opposite of old?” “What’s the opposite of heavy?” The adjective pairs are understandable, relatable ones: sad/happy, big/small, alone/together (the last pair is depicted especially winningly, with a gathering of colorful primates, some in costume). Each question is presented on a separate page, paired with a different primate species; its one-word answer appears on the following page, usually demonstrated by a different animal. Illustrations and font type will aid in young children’s understanding of the concept; the old/young pair features a demonstrably elderly gorilla contrasted with a tiny, thumb-sucking younger one. The appearance of adjectives in print also helps to clarify words’ meanings; heavy is set in bold black type; big is set in large black capitals. The final question’s a conundrum: “What’s the opposite of opposite?” A clearly puzzled chimp is shown scratching its head: That’s a toughie! Adults reading the book should pause to give young listeners time to think before venturing guesses. The answer: “The same!” Unsurprisingly, the illustration depicting that response is identical to the one demonstrating the question. The wonderful cover features a smiling gorilla cradling an adorable toy monkey.

What’s the opposite of a not-so-hot book? This utterly beguiling offering.