Edward the Emu
By: Sheena Knowles
About This Book
Edward the emu was sick of the zoo, There was nowhere to go, there was nothing to do, And compared to the seals that lived right next door, Well being an emu was frankly a bore. Tired of his life as an emu, Edward decides to try being something else for a change. He tries swimming with the seals. He spends a day lounging with the lions. He even does a stint slithering with the snakes. But Edward soon discovers that being an emu may be the best thing after all. And so he returns to his pen, only to find a big surprise awaiting him. . . . Edward is tired of being an emu, so he decides to try being something else for a change. First he spends some time swimming with the seals. Next, he lounges with the lions. He even slithers with the snakes. But Edward soon discovers that being an emu may not be so bad after all. So he heads back to his pen, only to find a big surprise awaiting him . . .Sheena Knowles' upbeat, rhyming text and Rod Clement's deliciously droll illustrations are sure to make readers laugh out loud in this whimsical picture book by the creators of Edwina the Emu."If you buy one book...for sheer fun, there's no question it should be this one." San Diego Union Tribune
AI Overview
Title: Edward the Emu Author: Sheena Knowles
Plot Summary
"Edward the Emu" is a children's book that tells the story of an emu named Edward who is dissatisfied with his life at the zoo. He overhears visitors praising other animals, such as the seals and lions, and decides to try being those animals for a day. Each day, he switches roles, but no matter how exciting the new experience seems, he eventually realizes that he is not suited for those roles. The story culminates when a visitor comments on how interesting emus are, prompting Edward to return to his enclosure. There, he meets Edwina, another emu, and learns to appreciate and accept himself for who he is.
Key Themes
- Self-Acceptance: The book explores the theme of self-acceptance, encouraging children to appreciate their unique qualities and not compare themselves to others.
- Identity: Edward's journey is a metaphor for finding one's identity and being content with who you are.
- Imagination and Exploration: The story promotes imagination and exploration, as Edward tries out different roles and experiences.
Critical Reception
The book has received positive reviews for its engaging storyline and the opportunity it provides to discuss self-acceptance with children. Here are some excerpts from reviews:
- Goodreads: "A delightful children's book" that "revolves around Edward, an emu who becomes bored with his life at the zoo" and eventually learns to appreciate himself.
- Reading Elephant: Praised for its ability to talk to children about self-acceptance, the book is described as "brilliant" for writing about emus, which are often seen as eccentric and unintelligent animals.
- ReadPlus: Commends the story for showing that things are often better when one is true to oneself, highlighting Edward's realization that being an emu is unique and interesting in its own right.
Author and Publisher
Sheena Knowles is the author of "Edward the Emu," which is part of a series that includes "Edwina the Emu." The book is suitable for students in years 5-7 and features realistic illustrations that portray the awkwardness of the emu form.
Overall, "Edward the Emu" is a heartwarming tale that encourages children to appreciate their individuality and find joy in being themselves.