Relativity, as Explained by Professor Xargle - Hardcover

Kindergarten-Grade 3-An off-this-planet look at the makeup and workings of human families, done in the same vein as Earthlets (1989), Earth Hounds (1990), and Earth Tigerlets (1991, all Dutton). Presented as a deadpan research study by that "learned alien" Professor Xargle, each page introduces a "significant" finding or observation. Ross's zany illustrations, directly in contrast to the posited statements, are a sure source of chuckles and groans. Each one features the posed caricatures of red bulbous-nosed family members caught in the exemplary behavior. The masterful juxtaposition of such character innocence and typical lyrical understatement produce hilarious results that will in no way seem alien to children. Students will want to devise their own research reports mimicking the absurd humor prevalent in the book's pen-and-ink and watercolor art.
Ronald Jobe, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.