Child's Play

Summary: When children don't listen to their parents, the Wim Wom steps in. Forget to put away your clothes? The Wim Wom will take them. Forget to pick up your toys? The Wim Wom will use them for a comfy nest. The Wim Wom will take full advantage of your neglect. But is a Wim Wom? Brother and sister are determined to uncover the Wim Wom, but each time they ask, Mom/Dad/Grandma/Grandpa, each add something else to the description. Will they ever discover the truth? This picture book uses parental lore about mischievous creatures to help kids understand that seeing and believing don't always work together.

Little Kid Reaction: Our daughter laughed as each of the adults help the children picture the Wim Wom. She enjoyed exploring the pages trying to find him, but was happiest of all when his favorite food is hers, too.

Big Kid Reaction: What a fun story! I love how the children use different things to try to create the Wim Wom. Pencils, crayons, and paper are obvious, but the kids also try using blocks and gadgets; sticks and leaves; and even dough. The illustrations add to the story, as the Wim Wom's shadow appears and disappears on the pages as you read along. There is a great twist at the end that will grab parents who think the myth is debunked.

Pros: Kids and parents alike will enjoy this folktale with a twist.

Cons: None. Children who are very literal may find it difficult to see that the stories the parents and grandparents told the children were not "lies."

www.thereadingtub.com. 16th January 2024

“A charming story, brought to life with humorous, cartoony illustrations."

Midwest Book Review. 1st April 2011

“Not only does The Wim Wom from the Mustard Mill give detailed imagery, but it also builds anticipation in a young reader's mind …”

Children's Literature. 1st April 2011