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Reviewed by Kristine Zimmerman for Readers' Favorite
Get ready for some silly rhyming fun. Where the Watermelon Grows by Stacey Roberts has the rhythm and rhyme of a song. Each stanza starts with "Way down south where the watermelon..." and then adds a new word at the end. The rhyming continues from there. Crocodiles are nibbling at toes, there are lemonade stands, dancing, and even blasting off to the moon. A diverse group of smiling children enjoys all the fun escapades. Outdoor and indoor activities are pictured, and the watermelons are featured prominently at the beginning and end of the story, which is lighthearted and full of fun.
Stacey Roberts has written a story that begs to be chanted or sung aloud. Where the Watermelon Grows reminds me of other kids' folk songs like The Green Grass Grows All Around and Down by the Bay. Although there is no music attached to it, I found myself spontaneously singing the words. The colorful, full-page illustrations add a cheery touch to the story. The children are pictured dancing and enjoying the world around them. Even the crocodiles are full of toothy grins. Rhythm and rhyme are essential early literacy concepts, and Where the Watermelon Grows has both. The rhymes work so well that after a few readings, kids will be chiming in to finish the line. The text and picture clues also make this a good choice for beginning readers. If you are looking for an amusing, carefree read-aloud that is sure to brighten your day, then pick up Where the Watermelon Grows.
