Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
By Mary Dixon Weidler,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Colorfully illustrated alphabet rhymes.

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Based on 9 parent reviews
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What's the Story?
How many small letters can fit up the coconut tree? Too many! But the capital letters come to the rescue, and everyone is patched up before sundown. The familiar letters -- and the pages of this story -- come alive in this colorfully illustrated (but, perhaps too abstract) alphabet rhyme.
Is It Any Good?
This is a great story for children learning (or needing reinforcement in) their letters. The alphabet is listed in order twice during the course of the story. Although the illustrations are a bit abstract (some younger readers may not recognize the coconut tree until it's pointed out), they are boldly painted. The dazzling rainbow parade of colorful letters make them memorable, adding to the educational value of this rhyming tale. "Chicka chicka boom boom!" becomes a fun mantra for children, who shout it out as an "Uh-oh!" to warn the adventurous alphabet characters. The illustrations of the patched-up letters are whimsical and endearing.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the alphabet. Sing the familiar alphabet song, and seek out other presentations of the entire alphabet.
What's fun about learning your letters? Do you have a favorite? What letter does your name begin with?
Which picture do you like best? Which is the funniest?
Book Details
- Author: Bill Martin Jr.
- Illustrator: Lois Ehlert
- Genre: Alphabet
- Book type: Non-Fiction
- Publisher: Simon & Schuster
- Publication date: January 1, 1989
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 4 - 7
- Number of pages: 31
- Last updated: March 18, 2019
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