A longer version of this review was published on Lost in a Good Book - https://wp.me/p3x8rS-33g

 I am an avid hater of picture books that fall into the lazy trap of farts, poop, and other bodily functions. I know the kids love them, but aside from being stupid, it’s also something celebrities easily get to publish and it feels like a storytelling cop out.

I know there can be good poop books, this is another one that balances a fine line. It is quite fun, our parent mouse is obviously sick of the kids always mentioning poo, and on their outing they have strict instructions to refrain from mentioning it.

I liked the work around the kids had, and I liked that their discussion of poo end up being fun imaginings of what it looks like from various people and animals they pass. I liked that tattooed people have tattooed poo, that balloon animal makers have balloon animal poo. I also liked the fun illustrations that match the poo to their shape.

The story is told with a great rhyme. It’s a fun story that really plays into the taboo of poo and the sneaky ways the kids want to discuss it. The story isn’t all about jokes about poo. As the story goes on they discover what happens to the poo in the zoo and how it is used for growing plants and trees. It debunks the myth for the kids that’s there is anything special about poo, it’s the same for everyone, with a little bit of humour without taking it too far on the grotesque side.

If you’re like me and are sick and tired of the poo books, this one may be an ok compromise when the kids really want to laugh at the grubby side of things.