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It's probably something any parent has experienced with their child at some point.
They prepare a lovely meal for their sweet, little offspring, only to have them take a half a bite and declare they're done.
They couldn't possibly eat another bite. No, they're far too full.
And then, their eyes flit to the dessert.
"But, I thought you were totally full?"
Their eyebrows and their knowing giggles clarify they were too full of supper. But there's always room for dessert.
Cake. Pudding. Ice cream.
Anything will do.
Pie.
Even Alligator Pie.
Especially Alligator Pie.
That's a beloved after-dinner delight in our household. And so is Garbage Delight (but more on that later).
Creating an instant classic
Alligator Pie is one of my twins' favorite books, which is fitting, since the collection by Dennis Lee is also one of my childhood favorites.
First published by Macmillan of Canada in 1974 as a book of zany nursery rhyme poems, Alligator Pie and Other Poems, written by Lee and originally illustrated by Frank Newfeld, won the Book of the Year Award from the Canadian Library Association the following year.
The work became an instant classic in the Canadian literary canon and has since sold over a half-a-million copies.
The syntactical sensation even earned Lee the endearing nickname of Canada's Father Goose.
Lee also penned other timeless children's classics you may have heard of, like Garbage Delight, Jelly Belly, Bubblegum Delicious, and The Ice Cream Store.
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the timeless and iconic Alligator Pie, a special edition board book of the poem bearing the same name as the book itself was released.
In this special publication, Lee's unforgettable poem pairs the revered rhymes with simply stunning artwork by Sandy Nichols, who won a nationwide competition to find the perfect illustrator for the beloved poem.
Nichols' eye-catching illustrations pop off the pages, adding a special touch to renew the already-loved, whimsical work of art.
It's been a slice
This care-free and classic story is so fun to read aloud and is a must-have for any bookshelf.
Watching my twin toddlers enjoy having it read to them, as they laugh boisterously and point animatedly at the artwork, is even more fun, and I think back on these moments often and smile at how their personalities shine through.
Being able to be goofy and playful together helps solidify memories we'll look back on when our little ones are all grown up.
Alligator Pie is definitely a book that encourages everyone to embrace their silly side.
TwinsyTwins Shop
Alligator Pie Board Book
The Beloved Canadian Classic
This is Alligator Pie by Dennis Lee. The 40th anniversary edition publication features illustrations by Sandy Nichols. The board book will stand-up to repeat readings from zealous toddlers who love the zaney rhymes and eye-catching artwork.
For any avid collectors out there, a classic edition hardcover version of Alligator Pie is also available through the link above.
If you're looking to expand your babies' bookshelf further, check out this collection of some of our favorite stories that help us work on giving our twins the Million Word Advantage.
What are some of your favorite stories to read with your babies? What makes them stand out? Let us know in the Comments section below.
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