If You Make a Call on a Banana Phone

PreS-Gr 3–In this imaginative picture book, a child making a call on a banana phone finds themselves conversing with a gorilla deep in the jungle. As the conversation unfolds, the gorilla asks questions, prompting the child to share personal details like favorite color, sandwich, or joke. This exchange builds trust and closeness, leading to shared secrets and plans for future adventures. Sterer’s writing is whimsical and engaging, fostering a sense of curiosity and openness in its exploration of communication and friendship. The narrative encourages readers to embrace individuality and not worry about outside opinions, as highlighted by the gorilla and caller knowing “the truth” despite others’ disbelief. The progression of the story, from initial questions to a deep connection, is heartwarming and thoughtfully developed, making it ideal for discussions on empathy and unexpected bonds. The conversational style and the imaginative premise make it a captivating read-aloud. The illustrations bring the imaginative world to life. They vividly portray the gorilla’s inquisitive nature and the child’s imaginative responses, culminating in the delightful scene of jungle animals arriving at the child’s house. Hand-lettering further enhances the book’s unique charms. The visuals consistently support the story’s themes of connection and the joy found in unexpected places.