Book Review: Boom Chicka Rock
As a mom, I know how unpredictable bedtime can be. Some nights it’s like a sweet dance party in the living room, and others? Let’s just say it’s a wrestling match over who picks the book. One recent evening, as I settled into my cozy armchair with my little ones, we reached for “Boom Chicka Rock” by Suzanne Tanner Chitwood—a vibrant counting adventure that turned our usual routine into an energetic escapade.
"Boom Chicka Rock" is a delightful follow-up to the beloved "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom," bringing to life a countdown of cheeky mice as they groove through colorful pages. We’re often on the lookout for books that blend fun with learning, and this story perfectly delivers. It’s all about counting, time, and, of course, a whole lot of rhythm that had my kids tapping their feet along with the text.
The book’s colorful collage artwork captivated my children immediately. My four-year-old pointed out the different outfits on the dancing mice—those little details really brought the story to life! And let’s not forget the delightful chaos of the Congo Line and the Tangoing mice. “Mommy, look at the purple shoes!” he exclaimed, eyes wide with wonder. It was a slice of magic that made my heart swoon—a simple moment where learning met imagination.
Reading aloud became a joyful experience, the vibrant rhymes flowing effortlessly from my lips. I found myself swept up in the rhythm, cheering, “Boom Chicka Rock!” together with my preschoolers. The text’s playful cadence made it easy to read multiple times, leading to giggles and improvisation as the kids chimed in with their own sound effects.
And oh, did they have reactions! My two-year-old loved counting the mice with me, and we took turns pointing to the pages, making it a fun, interactive session. When we reached the line about the mice tip-toeing, my son whispered, “Shhh!” in perfect timing, and we just burst into laughter. It was one of those delightful parent-child moments that I treasure—a memory wrapped in giggles and storytelling.
This book toes the line between delightful chaos and educational value, and it’s perfect for young readers aged 2 to 5. I can see it being a treasure in homes with energetic toddlers who adore rhythmic text and vivid illustrations. If your little ones are fans of "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom," then "Boom Chicka Rock" will undoubtedly strike a chord—it has officially won a spot on our nightly rotation.
In short, whether you’re seeking to introduce your child to counting, or just want a lively read-aloud to add some pep to your evenings, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. For us, it’s more than a one-time read; it’s become a cherished addition to our library, sparking joyful lessons and giggles at every turn. So grab a cozy blanket, a cup of something warm, and let the dancing mice bring a little rhythm into your family’s reading adventures!
