Review by dpacheco22 -- Four Funny Potatoes! by Len Foley

[dpacheco22]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Four Funny Potatoes!" by Len Foley.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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This rhyming children’s book with wacky pictures takes us through a day in the life of three potatoes and their banana friend. They sing songs and dance, incorporating other kitchen residents such as a sandwich and a couple of eggs, and everything goes swimmingly until it comes time to sing the potato song.

Despite their best efforts, the three potatoes can’t convince their banana friend that he is a potato, and this throws a wrench in the song. An existential crisis ensues during which Benny the banana tries his best to define who he is and who he is not.

I give this book 3 out of 4 stars. It wasn't exceptional, but it was entertaining and I enjoyed the plot twists. I also liked the message about how it was ok to be different. For a children’s book, it managed to be interesting and relay its message without being condescending. It’s also evident that the book has been professionally published; I found no mistakes and the pictures were of good quality.

The only thing that kind of confused me was how the book suddenly incorporated other food characters halfway through the song. In retrospect I understand it was to get the message through about everybody being different, but I felt the transition could have been smoother. If kids are reading it and not paying attention to the plotline it might go over their heads, but for kids who are paying closer attention I think this might be confusing.

Overall, it was an amusing book and I like how the author based jokes on the particularities of each piece of food; the characters had a lot of personality. I imagine the story will keep kids laughing throughout, and the rhyming will keep them interested and engaged. I also appreciated the last page (no spoilers!). I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Len Foley’s Four Funny Potatoes! to children aged 3-6.

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Four Funny Potatoes!
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