John the Skeleton by Triinu Laan, illustrated by Marja-Liisa Plats, translated from Estonian by Adam Cullen, 64 pages. PICTURE BOOK Yonder, 2024. $20. 978163206370
BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL
APPEALS TO: SEVERAL
When the Skeleton from science class is retired by the teacher, Gramps and Grams take it to the farm. Gramp repairs and replaces broken parts, they dress him in a coat and hat and he becomes part of the family. But Gram wonders if the neighbors will think hosting a skeleton at the farm means they are too old to live on their own. John (the Skeleton) comes in handy when he scares off some burglars, Gramps and Gram find him comforting to talk to, and the grandkids love him. Maybe John the Skeleton is a good thing to have around after all.
Full of short vignettes, John the Skeleton is personified - he's happy, and he enjoys things. They take him around the farm with him. I really didn't know what to expect, but found John the Skeleton delightful. What a sweet story, mostly about grandparents who have found someone to take care of. The illustrations are pencil drawing, with the occasional drawing colored pink. There's an illustration of children in a tub with John - and a sauna story - both which contain a naked bottom. Also contains a story about Gramp's burial wishes. In the author's notes, I was surprised to see John the Skeleton is based on a true story, so watch for the photo!
Lisa Librarian
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