Flamingos are Pretty Funky: A (Not So) Serious Guide by Abi Cushman
If you went wild for Cushman’s Wombats Are Pretty Weird, you will find her next installment fantastically fabulous. In the next book in the A (Not So) Serious Guide series, readers of all ages learn fascinating facts about flamingos.
Cushman immediately hooks readers speaking directly to them as her artwork zooms out over a few page spreads to reveal the tall, pink wading bird. Joey the snake from Animals Go Vroom returns to playfully banter with the narrator and the flamingos as details are shared. Here are a few of my favorites-
- Flamingos live are on every continent except for Australia and Antarctica.
- Flamingos are born with gray feathers and don’t start turning pink until they are two to three years old.
- Flamingos apply natural makeup from their uropygial gland during breeding season.
- Flamingos have the ability to live in very harsh environments.
- Flamingos can more easily stand on one leg than two legs.
- Flamingos colonies are called flamboyances.
In addition to the text, Cushman gives the flamingos’ voice as they share personal commentary about their characteristics through speech bubbles. The Lesser Flamingo wants a better name; flamingos discuss where they get their makeup as well as how their leathery and scaly skin protects them from toxic water and extreme temperatures.
Cushman’s artwork is so entertaining because she includes such detail and humor into every illustration. Text features such as sidebars and maps as well as back matter including real photos of flamingos and a glossary of terms teach kids the elements of nonfiction. Thanks to the author for sharing a copy. Flamingos Are Pretty Funky celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on June 2, 2024.
Beagles & Books 