I Wanted a Giant Chocolate Egg but All I Got Was This Stupid Book (Merv Lamington, illus by Makoto Koji, Affirm Press)

Forget about any religious symbolism, for kids (and a fair few adults), Easter is all about chocolate eggs brought by the stealthy Easter bunny. This cute little self-referential picture book for preschoolers to middle-primary readers is about a golden-haired boy who is very unimpressed by his lack of chocolate gifts from said rabbit, and indignant over having received a copy of this book instead. The story is essentially a series of light gags as he goes searching for the bunny to protest, with a copy of his unwanted gift in tow. Author Merv Lamington (yes, a suspicious pseudonym if ever there was one) has the boy scurrying after the creature as it traipses around town, hiding under a beach brolly because its work is done, heading to the zoo to recharge because it is exhausted by modern dietary requirements: nut-free eggs, gluten-free eggs, carob eggs. Makoto Koji’s bright and fun illustrations add to the zesty feel of the book. Along the way, kids even learn some interesting facts and reminders about the downside of chocolate, like how dogs are allergic to the stuff and should not be allowed to eat it, and how too many caramelly treats can necessitate a trip to the dentist. There are also silly jokes to share, for instance: ‘What is the Easter Bunny’s favourite type of music?’ ‘Hip Hop.’

Thuy On is a freelance arts journalist and reviewer, and the books editor of the Big Issue

Category: Junior newsletter Review list Reviews