PEE AND POO. THE DO’S AND DON'TS TO AVOID MISHAPS

Anthropomorphic young animals demonstrate every possible way to err when it comes to bathroom etiquette.

Koala is throwing a birthday party. The day is sure to be fun. “But sometimes, certain needs pop up…and it’s helpful to keep in mind some tips to avoid any mishaps when you need to go to the bathroom.” As guests arrive and make faux pas, an ever-present snail summarizes lessons to be learned. Toucan rushes straight to the bathroom; he forgot to pee before leaving home. Elephant doesn’t make it to the restroom in time; she was having too much fun playing cards. Squirrel forgets to knock before entering; Cat, who’s standing at the toilet, is startled and splashes pee onto the floor. After Lioness uses up all the toilet paper to dress like a mummy, there’s none left for Panda, who’s left with an itchy bottom. When Daddy Koala notices brown marks on Giraffe’s hands, he asks if Giraffe accidentally smeared chocolate icing on himself after eating cake. (“Maybe I forgot to wash my hands,” Giraffe replies.) Oddly, Daddy Koala seems more disgusted by Shrew’s furtive fart than by Giraffe’s nasty health violation. The humorous and adorable colored pencil art depicts animals gingerly holding it in or blushing in embarrassment. The narration, however, translated from Spanish, is didactic and wordy; it may make for a useful one-time read, but cleverer, less preachy options abound.

Earnest but awkward.