Today on Nonna’s Corner we are sharing the delightful story of Crunch, the Shy Dinosaur written by Cirocco Dunlap and illustrated by Greg Pizzoli.
Nonna’s Corner is where I share books I’ve read with my grandchildren, affectionately referred to as the Royals here at Caffeinated. Princess Sophia loved Crunch, and Nonna loved how it engaged her. Grab a cup of iced coffee and be sure to this to your child’s bookshelf.
by Cirocco Dunlap
Genres: Childrens
Pages: 40
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate
From Cirocco Dunlap (This Book Will Not Be Fun) and Theodor Seuss Geisel Award winner Greg Pizzoli (The Watermelon Seed) comes a charming, giggly read-aloud that illustrates the particular art of making a friend!
Crunch is a lovely and quiet brontosaurus who has hidden himself in some shubbery and is rather shy. He would like to play, but it will require some gentle coaxing from you! If you are patient and encouraging, you will find yourself with a new friend!
This picture book is a warm, funny example of how to engage with someone new, who is perhaps a bit different from you. Lessons in friend-making (such as minding personal space and demonstrating interest in another’s hobbies) are delivered so subtly that children will absorb them unconsciously as they delight in Crunch’s silly hat and dance moves!
Crunch, the Shy Dinosaur delivers a simple story about a shy dinosaur named Crunch. What makes the story unique, and a favorite with Princess Sophia, is how the author encourages the child reading the story to communicate with Crunch.
Crunch is shy and you need to whisper hello just right. When Crunch becomes scared, you need to sit very quietly or sing Happy Birthday, which happens to be Crunch’s favorite song.
The simple, colorful illustrations provided by Greg Pizzoli, fit perfectly with the story and engaged the reader without overwhelming the storyline.
The book teaches children how to make friends, understanding shyness, introduced personal space and getting to know a potential friend. A fun read to share with your child or a group.
- Age Range: 3 – 7 years
- Grade Level: Preschool – 2
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Carole @ Carole's Random Life in Books
I had my 4 year old niece and nephew over tonight and I think that they would LOVE this book.
Kimberly
Yay. I hope you get it for them Aunt Carole!
Angela Adams
“Lessons in friend-making (such as minding personal space and demonstrating interest in another’s hobbies)” — love this! Thanks for the post!!!
Kimberly
Yes I did too Angela.
blodeuedd
Awww what a cute dino
Kimberly
Yes, the kids are gonna love Crunch.
Tyler H. Jolley
While this is the complete opposite of my daughter, (yeah I know, shocking she’s super outgoing, right? ) I could see a lot of kids benefiting from this book. Although, as your review points it, maybe it would help her understand kids that are shy. Excellent review, Kimba!
Kimberly
Yes, the book assumes the reader is an extrovert (like Sophia) and helps you understand shy children.
Daniela Ark
ohh this sounds like such a darling! I love shy creatures in books because so many of us bookworms can relate to them especially young children. I Can picture Princess Sophia enjoying this one with Nonna 🙂
Kimberly
We just read it again this morning. I love it when she whispers hello and sings.