The Worrywarts

The Worrywarts cover
The Worrywarts
by Pamela Duncan EdwardsIllustrated by Henry Cole
- Age Range: 4-8 years
- Length: 32 pages
- Format: Paperback
- Size: 8.7 x 10.0 inches
- First Published: 1999
Review
The Worrywarts by Pamela Duncan Edwards is told with an abundance of alliteration. It's a little bit forced at times, but generally well done and something kids would probably enjoy. Though repeated readings might become a tad annoying for some adults.
The story is simple, but fun. Wombat asks her friends Weasel and Woodchuck if they'd like to "wander the world" with her. As they pack for their expedition, each of them begins to worry about things that might go wrong. "What if..." After they counter their fears by preparing for them, they head off to explore the world.
On their trip, the things that they worried about do come true, at least to a certain extent. But each character, Wombat, Weasel and Woodchuck, is able to outsmart or defeat one of the threatening animals and save the day. In the end, they don't exactly explore the world, but they do have an adventurous day out. As they return home, they start to plan for their next outing. But "What if...?"
The artwork by Henry Cole is done mostly in pencil crayons, with some water color. The drawings are fun and lively, inviting and bright. The artwork matches the tone of the story and adds a lot to the text. The characters are drawn in a playful, cartoon style and are certainly not dull. The design of the book is visually pleasing and varied with the artwork nicely showcased. An unusual font is used for the text which adds to the informal feel of the book.
"The Worrywarts" is a fun book to read and look at and should keep most kids amused.


Recommended
Three out of five stars
by Peter Marinacci
Feb. 2, 2006
