Review by daniya__shah3 -- Sigfried’s Smelly Socks!

[daniya__shah3]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Sigfried’s Smelly Socks!" by Len Foley.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Sigfried's Smelly Socks! is a children's fiction, written and illustrated by Len Foley. The book traces the stinking journey of Sigfried who is set on a quest to discover the reason behind his smelly book. He explores smells ranging from the smell of rotten food to that of pee, concluding that the major contributor behind the stinking book is his pair of socks, tucked clandestinely under his bed.

The book is humourous yet cute right from the dedication page. The puns used throughout the narrative are suitable for young readers and the corresponding illustrations intensify the hilarity of the story, complimenting each idea about different smells. I like the way Foley has illustrated the book, his illustrations are funny, filled with bright colours and drawn just the way a kid draws. The use of large eyes increase the aesthetics of the drawings, proving to be a plus point since kids feel captivated by round eyes in cartoons. The illustrations seem to talk, easily engaging the readers.

The story is written in the form of a rhyme, featuring multiple similies. Even the title makes use of a literary device called alliteration, making it seem more interesting. Using the mode of poetry as a narrative technique in a book meant for kids is a smart move since kids find poems more intriguing than prose. The introduction of sensory perceptions is educative in nature, I am sure it will enable the readers to differentiate amongst various smells. Also, the author's words are simple for the readers to comprehend yet vivid enough to make you actually smell the respective smell.

Another thing which I liked about the book is the way each page features a different smell and how his socks stand out among the other subjects, acting like a second protagonist, parallel to Sigfried. He describes his socks as smelly but not 'troublesome'. This idea personifies his socks, endowing a human-like characteristic to them.

I believe I enjoyed this book a lot more than I have ever enjoyed a book written for my age group. For standing up to my expectations, I am giving this book a rating of 4 out of 4 stars. Although, this book is recommended for children between the ages of 3 and 7, I would personally recommend this to every adult who is a kid at heart and wouldn't mind a good, stinking laugh. I'm sure this book will not let you down and you don't have to be a kid to read this.

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Sigfried’s Smelly Socks!
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

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[zk42011]

I have read the book myself and found it quite amusing too. However, I didn't notice the literary devices and the characterisation of Sigfried's socks. If I were a reviewer, I would give you full marks for noticing the minutest details in such a short and simple book. This is the second review of yours which I have read and I must say your reviews are unique and interesting.

[kfwilson6]

Great review. I also really enjoyed this book. I felt like the rhyming kind of fell apart in the last two pages and some of the illustrations could have been done a little better. Overall though, I think young boys would really like reading through the list of stinky items and some of the pictures would have them rolling on the floor laughing.

[daniya__shah3]

I have read the book myself and found it quite amusing too. However, I didn't notice the literary devices and the characterisation of Sigfried's socks. If I were a reviewer, I would give you full marks for noticing the minutest details in such a short and simple book. This is the second review of yours which I have read and I must say your reviews are unique and interesting.

Thank you so much, that means a lot. I appreciate your kind words.

[daniya__shah3]

Great review. I also really enjoyed this book. I felt like the rhyming kind of fell apart in the last two pages and some of the illustrations could have been done a little better. Overall though, I think young boys would really like reading through the list of stinky items and some of the pictures would have them rolling on the floor laughing.

Yes, I agree. Thanks, though!

[Shafia16]

Yes, I am more fond of children's fiction myself and enjoyed reading your review. It makes you sound so dedicated, paying attention to every detail. You have got great writing skills.

[gali]

Nice review! I didn't read the book, but it sounds like a fun read.

[BriennaiJ]

I love picture books in the art style of children! I think that it really encourages them to draw themselves. Great review!

[daniya__shah3]

Yes, I am more fond of children's fiction myself and enjoyed reading your review. It makes you sound so dedicated, paying attention to every detail. You have got great writing skills.

Thanks a lot!

[daniya__shah3]

I love picture books in the art style of children! I think that it really encourages them to draw themselves. Great review!

Yes, and they feel more connected to the story as well. Thanks, though!

[daniya__shah3]

Nice review! I didn't read the book, but it sounds like a fun read.

Thanks!

[Helen_Combe]

Great review. I thoroughly enjoyed this book too. Great fun. I particularly liked the page that was so disgusting it had to be hosed down.

[Kat Berg]

Nice review! I too enjoyed this book, as I have a quirky sense of humor. It is one that I will gift to my friends' children.

[gen_g]

Thanks for the detailed review! It is a great book for kids, and I’m glad that it’s one which adults can enjoy too.

[daniya__shah3]

Great review. I thoroughly enjoyed this book too. Great fun. I particularly liked the page that was so disgusting it had to be hosed down.

Haha, yes! The book was a humorous and stinky ride.