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What happens if you eat a watermelon seed by accident? Does it grow? Will you explode?
The Watermelon Seed by Greg Pizzoli. Little, Brown, 2013. 40 pages.
- Reading Level: Early Readers/Chapter Books, ages 4-8
- Recommended For: Ages 4-10
Kroc loves watermelon! “Chomp! Chomp! Chomp!” It’s his favorite and he eats it for every meal, especially dessert.
Uh oh. Not only did Kroc eat lots of watermelon, he swallowed a seed! Cue panic! Disaster! Is it growing a new watermelon in his tummy?! Will vines grow out his ears? He sure does feel funny….
In a very relatable turn of events, the watermelon seed pops out. Kids will giggle and adults will smile along. Pizzoli just gets kids, and his simple illustrations and text are perfect for new readers. It’s no wonder The Watermelon Seed won the Geisel Award! (You might want to reassure your child, though, that eating a watermelon seed with NOT grow a watermelon inside him or her, in case the seed doesn’t pop out like the one Kroc swallowed.)
Considerations:
- Physical Humor: Spoiler alert! But you may wish to know that Kroc burps his seed out in a large two-page spread. It’s funny and kids will find it hilarious.
Bottom Line: The Watermelon Seed is pitch perfect for new readers, especially those who like funny books.
*indicates a starred review, the best of the best in its field
Recommended Reading at Redeemed Reader
- Book Reviews: Other fun books by Greg Pizzoli include Number One Sam and Earl and Worm.
- Book Review: The Smell of Wet Dog is a funny poetry book that young readers will enjoy.
- Resource: You can browse all of our easy reader ideas right here!
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