A review of The Speedy Six Olympics

Book written by Roslynne Toerien, illustrated by Julie Smith-Belton and narrated by Gcina Mhlophe

Book read and audio listened to by BluJeans Books

The Speedy Six Olympics

Certainly! Here’s the revised review with the specified changes:

**Review: “Animal Olympics”**
**Rating: ★★★★☆

The “Animal Olympics” is a delightful tale that transports readers into a vibrant world where creatures of all kinds compete in a grand race to determine the fastest animal in the wild. The book, set to release on August 8, 2024, showcases an array of participants—from swift sprinters to graceful fliers—each eager to showcase their unique abilities.

The story is accompanied by captivating illustrations that vividly bring the animals and their competition to life. The artwork is a standout feature, sure to engage young readers and spark their imagination. The narrative itself is engaging, offering a mix of excitement, suspense, and a celebration of the diverse talents found in the animal kingdom.

One particularly exciting feature is the inclusion of a QR code that allows readers to listen to the book being narrated. The narration is performed by Dr. Gcina Mhlophe, a world-renowned author and poet, whose voice adds a rich, multicultural layer to the experience. This multifaceted approach not only makes the story more accessible but also elevates the entire reading experience, making it a truly special addition to any child’s bookshelf.

While the writing is enjoyable, it seems more suited to first-language speakers. The vocabulary used may be challenging for non-native English speakers, especially those at the younger age range this book targets. This could be a limiting factor for some children looking to fully appreciate the story.

One question that arose during my reading: Are peregrine falcons naturally found in South Africa? The inclusion of such specific animals might spark curiosity in young readers, prompting them to learn more about wildlife around the world.

The last two pages of the book are particularly noteworthy. They are packed with fascinating facts that children will likely love, adding an educational element to the story. This informative ending rounds out the book nicely, making it a valuable read for those interested in animal facts.

Overall, “Animal Olympics” is an enjoyable read with excellent illustrations, an engaging story, and an added bonus of a narrated version by Dr. Gcina Mhlophe. This multifaceted, multicultural approach lifts the book from a three to a four-star rating, making it a must-read for young animal enthusiasts.

@Struik Children

@PenguinRandomHouse