G IS FOR GOAT

Goats gambol happily through the rural landscape of Polacco’s lively alphabet book. There are loads of goat facts and lots of fun too. There are cart races, head-butting, jumping, and climbing. And of course, munching, nibbling, and tasting. Polacco moves from A to Z in a rhyming text that indicates her deep fondness for these creatures. There is a slight story here, a day of goat activities capped by a visit from the veterinarian and the birth of three baby goats. Each goat has a distinct personality in bright, cheerful pencil-and-watercolor illustrations. The little girl, obviously a portrait of Polacco’s younger self, exudes love, concern, and joy in her animal-filled life. The alphabet format is perhaps not the best choice. It’s a bit choppy and cannot stand alone. The delightful, charming illustrations are the work’s saving grace. They provide the meaning and make the story flow. Just for fun—and for goat-lovers. (Picture book. 3-6)