Starred review from December 1, 2006
K-Gr 5-The lovable diapered possum, Mamas sweet little patootie, stars in another charming book, this time a variation of the Southern folktale Sody Sallyraytus. On Epossumondass birthday, Mamas plans to make his favorite light fluffy biscuits come to a halt when she discovers that she is out of sody sallyraytus. She asks one after another of the guests to scoot over to the store to buy some, and, unfortunately, they meet up with a hungry GREAT, HUGE, UGLY LOUISIANA SNAPPING TURTLE! Its up to Epossumondas to rescue them. Salleys text is alive with the colorful expressions of the South (Well, I swaney and Honey, youre gooder n grits), which make the story a delight to read aloud. Stevenss hilarious mixed-media illustrations are a perfect match for the narrative. The visual details create lovable characters as well as a truly frightening villain. Mamas purple glasses and shoes, Epossumondass diaper and the inexplicable safety pin hanging on his tale, and the Louisiana setting are all unforgettable. Children will love listening to the tale and will laugh out loud at the verbal expressions and the artwork. This one belongs on the shelves of every library, but it wont stay there long."Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI"
Copyright 2006 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
January 1, 2007
Again, the endearing possum and his human aunt and mama re-enact a well-known tale. A huge snapping turtle gulps down successive characters carrying sody sallyraytus (baking soda) home from the store so that Mama can make biscuits for Epossumondas's birthday party. Salley's narration is ripe for the telling and Stevens's art is right in the comic spirit of things.
(Copyright 2007 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)