Polly Does NOT Want a Cracker

Stephanie Thatcher's, Polly, is a parrot that knows what she likes... and what she dislikes! She's a forthright character who says it as it is with a 'No!' Polly is frustrated by people always asking her the same question and it is not until Emma comes into her life that we see the happy, soft, gentle and creative Polly that was hidden beneath all of her gruffness. Emma sees her as a friend and isn't pushing her to perform.

I can't help but think back to a time at Virginia Lake aviary in Wanganui, when I was desperately trying everything to coerce a parrot to perform and all I got in return was a cold, blank stare.And yes I tried 'Polly want a cracker'. The same line that frustrates our parrot in this story. I got annoyed with the lack of response and stormed off with a, 'Stuff you then!!' Well, there was an instant reaction from the parrot - a change of stance - and then a loudly squawked 'What'd ya say?' This parrot was more interested in an argument than the mundane repetition expected of her. Parrots have a brain too!

I think Stephanie Thatcher has written and illustrated a 'cracker' of a picture book. Polly is a believable character and her facials are magic! 3 - 6 year old children would adore this book.

Title: Polly Does NOT Want a Cracker

Author & Illustrator: Stephanie Thatcher

Publisher: Upstart Press

ISBN: 978 1 988516 59 2

RRP: $19.99

Format: paperback

Date of Publication: May 2019

Ages: 3-6 years

Reviewer’s name, job title, school name & region: Ali Kersten, Teacher Librarian, Hereworth School, Hawkes Bay

How highly are you recommending this book? Highly recommended

What’s the book’s opening sentence? Everybody that met Polly asked her if she wanted a cracker.