annieb123's Review of I am a Capybara

by Michela Fabbri

A capybara is not a mouse or a beaver or a bear and has all sorts of surprising traits to discover. But while every capybara has teeny tiny ears and a gigantic nose, this endearing capybara happens to love poetry and the opera and even dressing up as a whale! He speaks candidly about his experiences and feelings, and he likes to find common ground with others, like his best friend, a little bird. Although he may appear to be a tough guy, he still likes cuddles and affection. Michela Fabbri’s irresistibly charming illustrations and witty monologue reveal the wonders to be discovered by trying new things, learning about someone you don’t know, and embracing community and family.

Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

I am a Capybara is a short and sweet picture book for the youngest readers written and illustrated by Michela Fabbri. Originally published in Italian in 2018, this English translation published by Princeton Architectural Press in 2020 is 40 pages and will be available in hardcover format.

The art is whimsical and appealing (see cover), and the text is simple and easy to read. It's written in free verse in short sentences which will allow smaller children to follow along with the reading and allow older kids to practice reading on their own. The text flows very well and it doesn't read as if it's been translated.

This would make a super choice for classroom/public library, home library, or gift. Really cute and I liked that the narrator (a capybara) has a very philosophical attitude about life and his own capybara-ness.

That capybara are relatively little known animals will give an opportunity for further learning by searching for and learning about them and other creatures' natural habitats and ranges.

Four stars

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

I am a Capybara

by Michela Fabbri

Reviewed by annieb123 on Aug 26, 2020

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