Read 'n' Play: Sneak! by Beatriz Gimenez de Ory, illustrated by Paloma Valdivia, English text by Lisa Rosinsky

Over the years I've relaxed somewhat on what I add to my board book collection, including more novelty/toy books, holiday titles, media tie-ins, etc. However, I still feel there are books that, although traditionally thought of as part of the board book section, are not board books at all! These I put in my circulating kits, but even the simplest of pop-ups tends to have a very short shelf-life. I can't imagine how quickly they'd disintegrate if set within easy reach of small fingers.

This title is definitely a novelty/play item and not a board book. It's ingeniously created, with thick cardstock pages and a die-cut hole on each page. When you turn the page, a strap at the spine of the book pulls back strips of paper, revealing a new picture. The front cover, turned, slides back the paper strips to reveal a chameleon.

After this first page, There is a free verse poem identifying different characteristics and asking the reader to guess the animal. Turn the page, and it slides back across the circle to reveal the animal. A leopard, sea dragon, owl butterfly, leaf insect, arctic fox, and potoo are revealed in their habitats. There are many other details to notice and the last spread adds more information about each animal with a note on camouflage.

This book is actually fairly sturdy, as long as you turn the pages slowly and carefully. I think we all know that not many kids will do that though! However, as pop-up books go, the construction is clever, especially in the sliding tab moving naturally with the turn of the page, rather than a child pushing or pulling something.

Verdict: This is a charming and clever book, with delightful illustrations and text that begs to be read aloud. It is, however, expensive - almost $20 even with a discount - and most librarians will balk at spending this much on a novelty book, no matter how sturdy. If you have the funds and a collection that includes pop-up and movable books, this would be a great addition. I would recommend using it with elementary-aged children and possibly preschoolers.

ISBN: 9798888590195; Published October 2023 by Barefoot Books; Review copy provided by the publisher