Calef Brown pairs his original, not-quite-nonsense poems with distinctively styled, offbeat paintings in this humorous collection. In “Ten-Cent Haiku” he writes about a dime: “Shiny silver friend / I will never let you go / Look! An ice cream truck!” With the exception of his haiku, most of Brown’s poems rhyme, but that is where predictability ends as he writes on topics ranging from the latest country-and-western hit (“Biscuits in the Wind”) to the wishes of worms, Medusa’s sister (her name is Sally) to Poseidon’s hair (growing a little thin). Brown plays with rhythm, too, so that the pacing is as lively and ever-changing as the topics in this enjoyable collection. (Ages 7–10)

In the very near future you will find yourself dining on Snow Flurry at the famous Weatherbee's Diner. Everyone will be there--Bob and Bossy Casey, Medusa's sister Sally, both of the Appleton Twins, and Mr. Andy Mandolin singing "Biscuits in the Wind." Remember him? You will also meet Angus, visit the silly Soggy Circus, and as soon as the moon is out (unless there's an eclipse), you may even glimpse a Tiny Baby Sphinx!

Until then, here's what I recommend: listen for flamingos, write some haiku, then take a ride in a Barnacle Built for Two. Sound good to you?