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THE COLOUR OF SPRING

Werner Zimmermann.
Toronto, ON: Oxford University Press, 1990.
24pp., cloth, $9.95.
ISBN 0-19-540743-1. Alphonse Knows series. CIP.


Subject Heading:
Colors-Juvenile literature.


Preschool-grade 3 / Ages 3-8

Reviewed by Gwen Maguire.

Volume 18 Number 3
1990 May


Author and illustrator Zimmermann presents a truly entertaining and informative picture-book to introduce young children to the concept of primary and secondary colours. This is the second in a series of "Alphonse Knows" books, which use the character Alphonse, a hilariously funny artist, to help children learn basic concepts.

Children will delight in the antics of Alphonse as he struggles with an armload of red, blue and yellow paint trying to decide which colour to paint his eggs. The author portrays a definite sense of humour as the bright illustrations depict Alphonse in various funny situations. A particularly hilarious example is presented when Alphonse trips up in the yellow paint and causes the red paint to go flying over his head. The vibrant red paint dripping from his head mixes with the vivid yellow from his feet and results in his originally white clothes turning into a bright orange colour. With the help of his ever devoted mouse, Alphonse manages to sort out his confusion and captures all the beautiful colours of spring.

H. Werner Zimmermann has succeeded in producing a thoroughly enjoyable and stimulating picture-book while simultaneously helping children to learn about colours. The language is simple and easily understood by young children. The text combined with the bright, clear and funny illustrations makes this book an excellent choice for any preschool or Primary class and a delightful learning experience for any young child.


Gwen Maguire, St. John's, NF.
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