Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Encouraging and fun, some potty humor in Odenkirk's poems.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
ZILOT & OTHER IMPORTANT RHYMES begs a question: what on earth is a Zilot... and how do I get one? It ends up that you don't get a Zilot, you make one. There's lots to learn in this book of poems -- about the importance of lazing around and watching the clouds. Dirt gets some thought. Grandparents are wondered about, as are dogs with zoomies, sleeping (or not sleeping), and shoelaces. How silly can a poem get? Read these very silly poems and find out.
Is It Any Good?
Definitely goofy, Zilot & Other Important Rhymes succeeds in encouraging creativity in readers, while giving a little food for thought. Not all of the meter is on point, nor are the rhymes, but these poems get points for silliness. A little much for toddlers, this would be fun bedtime reading for early readers. The potty humor is best for families who aren't squeamish. Readers will feel uplifted after engaging with this book, which is a lovely feeling to be left with.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how much perseverance it took to write Zilot & Other Important Rhymes. The author says it took many years. What is worth sticking with to you?
Being creative requires a lot of curiosity. When you make art, how do you find your subjects?
Losing your self-control is a theme in some of the poems in this book. What happens when you let loose?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Erin Odenkirk
- Genre : Poetry
- Topics : Animals , Arts , Holidays
- Character Strengths : Curiosity , Perseverance , Self-control
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Little Brown and Company
- Publication date : October 10, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 6 - 18
- Number of pages : 160
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : December 4, 2025
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