Book Review: Even More Parts by Tedd Arnold
As a lifelong lover of children’s books, I was absolutely thrilled to dive back into the world of Tedd Arnold’s Chip Block with his latest adventure, Even More Parts. The first book, Parts, had already captivated me with its delightful mix of humor and heart, and I couldn’t wait to see what our lovable protagonist had in store this time around.
In Even More Parts, Chip Block returns, but he’s still wrestling with those quirky phrases and idioms that people toss around — “I lost my head!” and “My nose is running!” Each expression sends him spiraling into a whirlwind of anxiety about losing his body parts. It’s both hilarious and relatable. Who hasn’t felt overwhelmed by the absurdity of language at some point? His quest to keep all his parts intact as he navigates this verbal landscape not only entertains, but also provides a golden opportunity to explore figurative language with young readers.
The humor in Tedd Arnold’s writing is brilliantly layered. Children are going to giggle at the literal interpretations Chip takes to these idioms, and parents will relish the underlying educational value of the story. My own childhood memories of trying to decipher idioms flooded back as I read, and I could hardly contain my laughter — Chip is like every kid who takes things a bit too literally, a true mirror of that innocent way of seeing the world.
Tedd Arnold’s illustrations add another dimension to the story. They are colorful, whimsical, and bursting with life, perfectly capturing Chip’s over-the-top reactions to each idiom. I found myself pausing to admire the detail in every page — from the exaggerated expressions on Chip’s face to the comical depictions of the idioms. It’s a visual treat that enhances the storytelling and makes it perfect for reading aloud.
One memorable moment that stood out to me was when Chip exclaims, “I sang my heart out!” while imagining his heart actually leaving his body to belt out a tune. It brilliantly encapsulates the essence of the book — teaching kids to appreciate the fun in language while inviting them to engage in a conversation about figures of speech.
Given the therapeutic laugh-and-learn atmosphere, I believe this book resonates strongly not only with children just beginning to grasp idioms, but also with parents, teachers, and anyone who enjoys a good chuckle over the complexities of English. It’s a supportive tool for discussions on figurative language, whether you’re reading at home or using it in a classroom setting.
In conclusion, Even More Parts is a joy to read and an excellent addition to any child’s library. It’s a charming reminder that language can be both silly and profound, providing laughter while encouraging growth in understanding nuances of communication. I highly recommend this book for children ages 4-7, or really, for anyone who enjoys playful humor and a little literary exploration. It left me grinning from ear to ear, and I can only hope it sparks the same joy in you and your little ones! Happy reading!
You can find Even More Parts here >>