Discovering 10 Fat Turkeys: A Delightful Read for the Whole Family
As a mom navigating the beautiful chaos of raising young children, bedtime reading can sometimes feel more like a wrestling match than a peaceful moment. Just yesterday, my three-year-old, Max, was adamant about reading another dinosaur book, while my five-year-old, Ella, was inclined to dive into a fairy tale. That’s when I spotted 10 Fat Turkeys by Tony Johnston sitting on our bookshelf—its vibrant cover beckoning to us like a beacon of silly fun. We simply had to give it a try.
From the moment I opened the book, I was charmed by its playful premise: ten goofy turkeys doing everything from swinging on vines to dancing noodles. My kids were instantly captivated by the lively rhyming text, echoing “Gobble gobble wibble wobble!” in infectious giggles. Counting backwards has never been more entertaining! Each turn of the page sent us into a flurry of laughter and anticipation about what would happen next.
Richard Deas’s illustrations perfectly complement Johnston’s whimsical words, with colors that practically leap off the page and characters that are bursting with personality. Max pointed out the turkeys’ antics—they were a mix of silly and ridiculous that he couldn’t get enough of. When we reached the part where the turkeys "strut on a boar," Ella burst out laughing and insisted that we all try our own “turkey strut” right there in the middle of the living room. I found myself giggling alongside them, feeling that familiar warmth of family bonding over a shared silliness.
One of my favorite pages features a turkey swinging from a vine and yelling out “Looky!” while another gives a hilarious belly flop into a pile of leaves. I couldn’t help but think about how much joy these little moments bring into our lives. As a parent, it’s these shared experiences—where chaos meets laughter—that remind me why I adore reading with my kids. It’s not just about the stories; it’s about building memories together.
What I truly appreciate about 10 Fat Turkeys is how it beautifully marries learning with fun. My kids didn’t even realize they were counting backwards until I pointed it out. Instead, they were simply enjoying the delightful silliness of the story. After reading, Ella eagerly began spotting the numbers on each page, transforming our reading session into an impromptu counting lesson filled with giggles.
I wholeheartedly recommend 10 Fat Turkeys for kids aged 2-6, especially those who thrive on humor and creativity. It’s a treasure for any parent looking to infuse a bit more fun into their reading time, and let’s be honest, it’s a true gem for keeping little ones engaged—perfect for fall or frankly, any time of the year. After our first read, it’s become a beloved addition to our nightly rotation, and I’m sure it’ll be a popular pick for other families too.
In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, finding books that bring laughter and connection is a win in my book. 10 Fat Turkeys is not just a story; it’s a delightful adventure in the simple, joyful chaos of life as a family. Happy reading, everyone! 🦃✨