Review of Yikes, I Saw a Barracuda!
Reviewed by Stefanie Thomas Gilbert-Roberts
The author Tamara Anderson has done a great job presenting the delightful voice of an enthusiastic young Alexandra, who takes readers on this wonderful and fun experience of visiting the Caribbean coastline of Mexico with her family. Scenes with beautiful beaches, the aquamarine colour of the sea, and vibrant sea-life, by the illustrator, Rachel Moss, bring to life in a way young readers will surely love, discovery! There is intrigue in Alexandra’s encounter with a huge barracuda!
It also celebrates diversity in language, as the signs and names of locations are presented in Spanish, it introduces us to a real destination in Mexico. Alexandra delightfully and easily switches into the native language, Spanish, from time to time in the story. To top it off, the Author provides explanations and context in the notes at the back of the book, including an English-Spanish translation key of the main words. It will be sure to engage young readers to be open to new adventures and encourage language learning. One can easily imagine there will be more adventures to come!
Review of Yikes, I Saw a Barracuda!
Reviewed by Dr. Jacqueline Anderson
Yikes I saw a Barracuda is a fascinating and beautifully written real life children’s book. It’s language is clear and concise paired with vivid illustrations, which will help sustain a child’s interest. The story is set in Mexico which is partially bordered by the Caribbean Sea. It tells the story of Alexandra, a girl from Florida going on vacation with her family. She is excited about her trip and brings the reader along as she enjoys the fun-filled, adventurous vacation with her brother, Mom and Dad. She also enjoys speaking Spanish which she started learning in school. This book is a must read and is a great addition to personal, school and library collections.
Review of Yikes, I Saw a Barracuda!
Reviewed by Winsome Monica Minott
Tamara Anderson’s “Yikes, I saw A Barracuda,†is very engaging while teaching important life lessons and showcasing beauty. Anderson’s carefully thought-out word choices will undoubtedly help to build the vocabulary of targeted readers. The book introduces fish that can be found along the coastline of Mexico. The writer with a gentle hand encourages positive family values and readers will feel refreshed, and warmed by the sea and sun. The bilingual concept embraced I find most appealing and will ensure a strong and steady market for this book and others to come. The artwork by Rachel Moss is to be commended.