Occasionally, I talk about a picture book that I discovered. Actually, my sister, Linda, bought The Wombats Go Wild for Words for her granddaughter. After I read it, I wanted a copy for my a great-nephew. Before he was born, I spent a great deal of time picking out books for him, including some that will be waiting for him in a few years. He’s not yet one, and this book by Beth Ferry and Lori Nichols is aimed at four to eight-year-olds. When he reaches the age that he appreciate the sound of words, this one will be there. His parents have been reading to him from the time he was born, and he already has a library card. So, I’m sure they’ll get to this one eventually.
Evergreen Forest is a very nice place, quiet with animals that are nice. But, everything is disrupted when three wombats show up. They’re verbivores, eager to share words with all the animals in the forest. It’s a duckling who is most excited to learn words such as gobsmacked and exquisite, marsupial and famished. The whole forest community is revitalized by the energy exhibited by the wombats and the duckling.
The Wombats Go Wilds for Words is a delightful book, filled with scrumptious words. Children will love the rhythms. Parents will love the “Little Duckling’s Duck-Tionary, a glossary of words used in the book, along with their definitions. It will enable parents to easily explain the words to youngsters when they’re ready to learn the meanings, not just listen to the sounds. The jacket can also be flipped over to form a charming word wombat poster.
If you’re looking for an engaging picture book, you might want to check out The Wombats Go Wild for Words.
The Wombats Go Wild for Words by Beth Ferry & Lori Nichols. Random House Studio, 2025. 40p.
FTC Full Disclosure – I bought a copy as a gift.
This book sounds like great fun. I’m always delighted to have recommendations for good picture books to send as presents to my young friends’ children and my older friends’ grandchildren!
A few months ago, I used the word “discombobulated” with a young friend from Ecuador, and she had me say it again, define it, and write it down. I saw her again last week, and she made a point of using “discombobulated” with me. People who love odd new words are a treat!
I love your story about your friend from Ecuador, Kim. This is just a fun book.
It sounds adorable. I’m sure he’ll love it. And I love the idea of a one year old with a library card! Good to get them started early.
Jeff, His mother says she reads books above of his level sometimes. He enjoys the sound. In fact, she’s been reading her favorite, Harry Potter, to him.
I love it, wish I knew some young kids to give it to.
Well, Carol. You’re young at heart and love it. You can always give it to yourself.
Oh Lesa. This made me think of Natalie Lloyd’s Snicker of Magic. ❤❤❤
You’re right, Kaye! I hadn’t thought that, but you’re right. This one is so much fun.