Groundhog Gets It Wrong by Jess Townes

Abstract

Reviewed by: Groundhog Gets It Wrong by Jess Townes Kara Forde Townes, Jess Groundhog Gets It Wrong; illus. by Nicole Miles. Dial, 2023 [40p] Trade ed. ISBN 9780593326152 $18.99 E-book ed. ISBN 9780593326169 $10.99 Reviewed from digital galleys R 3-7yrs Coming from a long line of lauded meteorologists, Groundhog is unconcerned about taking over the family profession and making his debut prediction about the end of the winter season this February. Encouraged by sage advice and well-wishes from those who came before him, Groundhog wakes up early on the big day and can’t find his shadow anywhere, and so makes the formal proclamation to the gleeful crowd of townspeople that winter is officially over. With plans for a spring carnival in place, there’s no chance he could be mistaken, right? Townes provides a witty take on the bizarre tradition of Groundhog Day, enhanced by a well-paced plot that humorously relies on the tension caused by Groundhog’s unearned authority. The saturated colors and multi-paneled page layouts of Miles’ digital illustrations highlight the action and humorous moments, and auxiliary sound effects and speech bubbles will support a spirited storytime rendition. Following a funny spread depicting his chaotic vocational crisis, Groundhog’s eventual dedication to the careful study of meteorology adds a layer of depth to the story, as it reinforces the value of science and diligent inquiry over blind faith. Closing papers include a brief background of the history and tradition of Groundhog Day, plus information about Punxsutawney Phil’s (low) rate of accuracy and lack of meteorology training. [End Page 165] Copyright © 2022 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois