Customer Reviews

I Am Dodo: Not a True Story

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book can gently introduce young children to some difficult ideas: extinction, and humankind's potential impact on the survival of other species. I found this book to be a great discussion starter when I used it for story time with 4-6 year olds at the museum.

Even children who are a little older are drawn in by Nishimura's humorous illustrations, and the unusual but charming title character, Dodo. As it says on the cover, this is not a true story, and Dodo's not-true-to-life appearance requires a little bit of imagination and artistic license. (One thing it's important to note for young dodo enthusiasts: because it has been extinct since about 1681, there were never any photographs of the Dodo, and artists have always had to recreate its image based on written observations.)

This book also has a positive message about the value of mutual respect and friendship, which is a wonderful lesson for children of all ages. I Am Dodo is a sophisticated, witty, and beautiful book.

Miriam Kessler
Preschool Coordinator at the NY Hall of Science

This book is unlike any other I've ever read. Ms. Nishimura has a truly unique vision and a refined sense of storytelling that is refreshing and enjoyable. Her sense of humor and whimsical characters create in the reader a slow, satisfying glow that lasts long beyond the last page. I recommend I AM DODO for anyone who appreciates substance and quality in a picture book.

This book was a big let down. The main character, the dodo, isn't a real dodo. The illustrator wouldn't know a dodo bird if it bit her.