Captain Stinkbottom

A duodenal dilemma plagues a pint-size pirate. Joey Wyatt, aka Captain Stinkbottom, has two problems: constipation and flatulence. His belly is constantly swollen, and his crew are always laughing at his tendency to pass gas. His clueless mother offers no help. Eventually, though, farting turns out to be an asset as Stinkbottom wields it like a cannon against his adversaries, including Captain Potatoface. Contending with another captain, Elsa Pinkhair, he initially triumphs, but, unfazed, she cleverly diagnoses his digestive issues and prescribes a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. No more constipation--but, happily, no reduction in toots, either! Rhyming words are in bold at the end of lines, but with no attempt to provide any rhythm (perhaps a result of the book's translation from Spanish), so reading the tale aloud will present a challenge. Still, though the vocabulary is quite rich (includingflatulence,invincible,scallywag, andinfamous), words are almost unnecessary here; the strength of the book lies in Urberuaga's droll illustrations, with their free, expressive linework, vibrant color, abundant gas clouds, and many small comical characters, who vary in skin tone (Stinkbottom is pale-skinned). The topic, of inexhaustible fascination for this age group, and the effortlessly childlike art are bound to produce giggles. Chronic constipation and weaponized wind propel an entertaining bathroom book.(Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.