★ “Cordell’s illustrations have the loose, but quite detailed, feel of Quentin Blake, and depict Aunt J’s untidy home filled with memorabilia. The font size changes, depending on the knocking, shouting, barking, grunting, or crowing going on at each moment, which adds liveliness to an already vigorously engaging story. A fit ending will please children who will be enthralled with the action and entertainment Aunt J’s tale brings.”—Booklist, Starred Review
★ “This quirky readaloud is accentuated by Matthew Cordell’s scribbly pen lines and watercolor, showing great detail in Aunt Josephine’s grand adventures and adding background bonuses that are bound to make rereads interesting. Aunt J is comically verbose in her stories, and younger viewers will likely pick up on some new vocabulary through her tale. This hilarious story would be well suited for a lapsit storytime or any situation that requires a good laugh.”—The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, Starred Review
★ “Large, handwritten block onomatopoeic words will draw in readers’ eyes while perusing this picture book. . . . The book culminates in an ending young readers won’t see coming, and one that will certainly illicit more than one or two giggles. The vocabulary is complex, which will likely prompt some questions and discussion. Cordell’s illustrations, done in pen, ink, and watercolor, are just the right level of humor for the narrative.”—School Library Journal, Starred Review
“Text and art duel with each other to make the antics more and more outlandish, and every page-turn yields an unexpected and wonderfully ridiculous plot development. . . . All the while, someone keeps knocking at the door, where the perfect ending awaits on the other side.”—The Horn Book
“More female-powered action from an inspired creative team.”—Kirkus Reviews
“Cordell’s loopy, frenetic drawings savor her journey’s every inanity: sailing a bathtub, riding a whale. . . . any vehicle for Cordell’s sweet-tempered mayhem is a treat.”—Publishers Weekly
QUICK VIEW
