September 1, 2023
PreS-Gr 2-When a bird, a dog, and a cat open up a special delivery to their home, the three anxious pets discover in the large, mysterious box a fierce machine that gobbles up everything in sight. "Vac VROOM, Vac SCHLOOP! Vac eat cat poop." This also includes, to their dismay, themselves! As the vacuum shamelessly tries to eat each animal, the pets decide that they have had enough. A battle ensues: animals vs. vacuum. Cat and friends decide to form a "pet team" with the other critters in the house to defeat the vexing cleaning monster. This simple, silly story is perfect for beginning readers, as short sentences fill each page. Windness's brightly colored illustrations pair perfectly with the chaotic mood that is displayed throughout. The facial expressions of the pets and vacuum add another layer of comedy to the story. VERDICT Perfect as an independent choice for beginning readers, or to share with a buddy or family member, this story will entertain at home and in an elementary classroom setting.-Kerra Mazzariello
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