Father Fox's Penny Rhymes
This book of nonsense rhymes written and illustrated in the early 1970s is absolutely delicious - and feels like the antidote to all the stale Mother Goose nursery rhymes that just won't quit. Father Fox is the storyteller spinning silly yarns to his many children as they tumble all over the pages in assorted ridiculous hijinks. The prose is silly, sweet, nostalgic and downright yummy. These little gems paired with the detailed comic illustrations makes for a real treat. "Tell us something really cuckoo," pretty much sums it up.
Each full page illustration is accompanied by a wonderful poem that relates to the depicted scene. If your little one enjoys goofy short poems and you'd prefer to read words that have charm and appeal this could be what you're looking for. I love getting lost in the artwork (and the words), all are packed with humorous rewards and clever detail for the lingering eye.
Oh my goodness, oh my dear
Sassafras and ginger beer
Chocolate cake and apple punch
I'm too full to eat my lunch!
Huckleberry, gooseberry, raspberry pie
All the sweetest things one cannot buy.
Peppermint candies are six for a penny,
But true love & kisses, one cannot buy any.
Penny candy
Sugar hearts
Oranges &
Lemon tarts
Ask me where my
Money goes?
To buy my sweetheart
Fancy clothes.
Happy Birthday, Silly Goose!
Just today we'll let you loose
But tomorrow if you are hooked
Then my dear, your goose is cooked.
Father Fox's Pennyrhumes is written and illustrated by sisters Clyde Watson and Wendy Watson. "It's inspiration has been our childhood at home on the farm in Vermont - the seasons and the work that goes with each, the buildings, the countryside - and the atmosphere and fun of our own family." Clyde Watson has played violin professionally with orchestras and is also a composer, which is felt in the musical lilt of the prose.
GRADE LEVEL: K – 5
