Review by School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 3--A surprising story that uses as inspiration the division of labor in an ant colony, the ever-present possibility of miscommunication, the energy generated by a party, and the tremendous power of a group. It is Andy's birthday, and he'd like to have a small party with "dancing and dips" in his underground home. He begins by inviting his neighbors, but soon they invite the farmer ants (they'll bring food), who invite the worker ants (they work so hard), who are overheard by the soldier ants who tell the queen (she loves a party), who invites other ant colonies. "Soon, thousands of ants were pouring toward Andy's door, ready to rave their socks off." When an anteater literally crashes the party, Andy is furious. Without taking time to be afraid, he yells at the other ants to form a conga line. The anteater is carried off by the ants and dumped into a nearby river, giving Andy his desired "dancing and dips" and making him a hero. Detailed, colorful illustrations add energy and joy to the story, showing hundreds of ants and the spaces they live, work, and relax in. The individualized ant faces are personalized with different eyebrows, eyelashes, facial hair, and head decorations; the sunflower seed helmets of the soldier ants are particularly charming. VERDICT This clever tale about fun-loving, hard-working, and resourceful ants is sure to delight young children.--Sally James
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
Andy the ant decides to throw himself a birthday party, but the invite list grows beyond his expectations. The anthill is a busy and crowded place, and word travels far. Andy's plans for an intimate gathering with just his neighbors are dashed as more and more guests are invited: the farmer, worker, and soldier ants; the queen; and even residents from nearby anthills. Thousands of ants arrive, and the festivities grow raucous until an anteater crashes the party--literally! Together everyone forms a conga line, marching the invader right out of there. They continue to party into the late-night hours, and though it's not what Andy had envisioned, he's delighted. Andy is a darling little bug, depicted in a vibrant teal. The other ants are rendered in different shades of bright colors, with wide eyes and unique features: a pair of glasses, a flower behind an antenna, a thick moustache. The illustrations include thoughtfully detailed layouts, such as the "Handy Map of the Ant Hills," which provides an aerial view of Andy's world. Montgomery and Warburton have created an unlikely hero in the endearing Andy. Kid-friendly touches, such as Andy's leafy apron, keep the tone playful, while scenes of Andy leading the party guests in an effort to oust the anteater will have youngsters cheering. A celebration that readers will eagerly attend--over and over.(Picture book. 3-6) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.