Ashman, Linda. Champion Chompers, Super Stinkers, and Other Poems by Extraordinary Animals. Illustrated by Aparna Varma. Kids Can Press, 2023. 978-1-525-30350-0. $19.99. 48 p. Grades 1-4.

Nineteen different animals are introduced and given superlatives–best long-distance runner, fastest flyer, longest tongue, and so forth. Brief persona poems, written from these various animals’ points of view, are interspersed with paragraphs describing the animals. Readers will delight in guessing each animal before it is revealed. Back matter includes a glossary, recommended reading, information about endangered animals, and information about measuring animal characteristics. This creative and unique presentation of facts about animals is sure to command the attention of young readers.

THOUGHTS: This would be an excellent addition to any animal science or poetry collection. Educational opportunities abound with this book! Use it to supplement a unit on biodiversity, or have students choose an animal from the book to research further. Alternatively, use it to introduce persona poems and then have students write their own poems in this style.

591.5 Animal Habits and Behavior