FICTION

Babbit and Joan, a Rabbit and a Phone

Flyaway Bks. Apr. 2020. 40p. Tr $17. ISBN 9781947888203.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 2–Joan the phone joins her comrades who are on strike, seeking relief from endless texts and pictures. Joan’s owner, Babbit, tucks her into bed, then goes outside alone. While hiking, Babbit encounters a bird bemoaning the loss of his phone battery and a bear who’s lost her phone entirely. The three eventually relish their tech-less journey together, sleep under the stars, and take a boat back to the city. Back in the old neighborhood, phone-obsessed animal neighbors don’t even realize Babbit’s been gone. He shares his exciting story with Joan and promises to recharge her batteries and give her more breaks while he continues to explore the world. Turu uses jewel tones for her cartoons with rounded figures.
VERDICT Part of a social issues series, the message is heavy-handed and likely more pertinent to parents than children.

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.


RELATED 

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?