From Publishers Weekly
This giraffe hero's entire world is labeled with name tags; the text "Carlo reads his bedroom" accompanies newcomer Spanyol's opening full-bleed spread, which identifies everything from the stars on Carlo's mobile to the bunny slippers by his bed. But Carlo doesn't just read for his own edification. About midway through the book, following his mother's example, Carlo reads the labels as well as books to eager audiences (including a duck family). The vignettes don't fit together into a coherent narrative arc, and Spanyol's choice of an ending seems odd: Carlo is last seen galloping on a hillside in a completely unlabeled landscape, as if the author is finally giving the giraffe a break from all that literacy training. Still, Carlo's bright-eyed, plush-toy cuteness and Spanyol's sunny, acrylic palette make every spread appealing. And youngsters should get a giggle from the way the author deliberately goes overboard on her tagging, identifying not just objects but soap bubbles, spilt milk, "goo," various insects and even Carlo's dad's bottom. There's plenty here to inspire pointing and identifying action on the part of emerging readers. Ages 2-6.
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
reS-K-Carlo is a giraffe with bright eyes and a curious face. He goes from room to room in his house, visits some familiar places (park, store, etc.), and reads all of the labels on the objects and friends around him. For example, the spread for "Carlo reads the bathroom" shows a toothbrush, bathmat, shower, spider, frog, sink, etc. The featured items are realistically drawn in bright colors and very much a part of a child's world. It is also very clear that Carlo loves to read. In a way, this book is reminiscent of Richard Scarry's work. There are lots of things to point out and recognize and see what their "labels" look like in print. Young children know what a chair is but it's helpful to see the word tied to it. There is no story line but for youngsters learning objects, animals, etc., this is a fine book to share, one-on-one or with a small group.
Susan Lissim, Dwight School, New York City
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
