Maestro Stu Saves the Zoo is an entertaining new educational picture book for children ages 4-8. The 32 pages of this hardcover book are filled lovely color illustrations (a priority for this momma), and a lively text that moves the story along at a rapid pace. This is the story of a zoo that is in danger of being sold in favor of the economics of a strip mall. Not exactly an early elementary education concept, but the overarching theme of the underdog against the big bully rings true for all ages.

When we read a picture book we like to explore the illustrations and discuss the story that is told without words. Maestro Stu Saves the Zoo supplies ample opportunity to discuss emotions as well as discuss a wide selection of the animal kingdom.  I was amazed at the ease with which Denise Brennan-Nelson weaves 41 common idioms into the text of the book. What a great way to introduce these sayings to children at a young age. There is no better way to get a grasp on the intricacies of our language than to use it in an entertaining and memorable way. An index at the back of the book lists all of the idioms and their meanings, which I found helpful, as some idioms are so common and ingrained that they sometimes slip by without being recognized. 

This book has earned a place on my “To-be-frequently-read” shelf by virtue of the problem-solving story, the delightful pictures, the introduction to idioms, and last but not least, the enjoyment it brings to my child.

Product review by Lis Penney The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, January, 2013