The Long Drop

Summer Holidays, summer fun, summer memories, most New Zealanders young and old have stories to share. Joan Joass has just such a story. This book is based on a real life event of a family holiday in a caravan, a problem to solve and a great kiwi dad who can fix anything.

When the family is faced without a toilet close to their campsite dad sets about to remedy the problem by building a long drop. All is well until the toilet nears capacity then another problem emerges. There follows a hilarious string of events that will have children and adults laughing out loud and it will inspire stories to flow of crazy antics from families everywhere.

I found the rhyming pattern a bit forced on occasion and I had to read it a few times to find the rhythm which came more fluidly when reading aloud. Children may not be familiar with imperial measurements used, 6 inch nails and 8 foot hole, and the fire safety practises may be questionable but readers are sure enjoy this very funny story.

The illustrator has truly captured the hilarity of this summer chaos and skilfully brought the action to life.

Title: The Long Drop

Author: Joan Joass

Illustrator: Bob Darroch

Publisher: Oratia Books

ISBN: 978-0-947506-71-1

RRP: $19.99

Format: (Paperback

Date of Publication: June 2020

Ages: 4+

Do you have any advisory warnings for this book? no

Reviewer: Elaine Wills, Library Manager, Enner Glynn School, Nelson

How are you recommending this book? Recommended

What’s the book’s opening sentence? Summer Holidays By the sea

You can buy this book here