No Never

by: Sally Lee

Published by: Lee Publishing

Reviewed by Muhammed Hassanali

No Never is about Daisy, a Dalmatian, who does not like to do her chores, homework, take a bath or eat her vegetables. When her mother asks her what she would like to do, Daisy reveals her grand goals: write the greatest book and win the Tour-de-Daisy. Mother then clarifies the importance of current chores, those of which will teach her the skills and responsibility she will need to achieve those things and so much more.

The illustrations are warm and bold, and look like oil-on-canvas illustrations. On a two-page spread, there generally is text on one page with an illustration on the other. Themes and patterns on the illustration page repeat on the text page, providing visual continuity and consistency.

The book does address a behavioral issue early. The tone changes from cranky to warm as the characters work through the issues and eventually change the behavior. While Daisy’s mother does convince Daisy with her argument, the message may be difficult to get across to young audiences. Very young children may not comprehend the lofty ideals, and the older ones may find the narrative too simplistic.

Another approach would be to have older children (6 to 7-year olds) read the book to their younger siblings. There are plenty of areas for theatrics that both older and younger children would enjoy – especially saying “No Never” with flair and gusto. This book is best enjoyed when it is performed – not read!

Armchair Interviews says: This book may contain a typical problem of an author not understanding their reading audience’s age/ability.