Young readers will revel in Kimble’s evocative language as Mr. Mouthful expresses himself in the most fanciful terms possible. When a pothole threatens their walk, he cautions Dupree “Such a perilous situation! For your personal safety and comfort, take heed,” and when Dupree breaks out into a dance, Mr. Mouthful sings “Disport, disport. Strut your stuff.” The neighborhood kids who can’t get enough of the pair make merry in their own way, though accidents abound as they lag behind: an open paint can becomes a tripping hazard (“a most unfortunate outcome,” according to the story’s star), and when the children join in the chase to rescue Dupree from the local ne’er-do-wells, a bike crash stops them in their tracks.
Just as Kimble delivers loads of effusive entertainment, Bell’s sprightly illustrations—showcasing the characters as they stumble, dance, and scamper after Mr. Mouthful—overflow with subtle amusement. A pair of thieves kidnapping Dupree sport underwear emblazoned with hearts, the “youth brigade” saves the day with juice box projectiles, and Mr. Mouthful’s green bowtie and matching plaid pants steal the spotlight. In the end, Dupree’s rescue leaves Mr. Mouthful a bit tongue-tied, as he thanks the youngsters with his least extravagant speech yet: “Thank you, kids. You saved my pal.”
Takeaway: Charming adventures with a “fancy-pants” and his pet monkey.
Comparable Titles: Hudson Talbott’s A Walk in the Words, Anya Glazer’s Thesaurus Has a Secret.
Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A-
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A
