  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 11/01/2018 Bernstein introduces a humorous narrative of a bailor and bailee in this story of Owl and Monkey's misunderstanding. When Owl entrusts his friend Monkey to take care of his red balloon, Monkey agrees but soon becomes distracted by the balloon's splendor. Once Owl departs, Monkey gleefully plays with it until he accidentally pops it! Owl eventually returns to claim his red balloon, and Monkey takes one looks at the deflated results and tries to pass off any number of objects in its place. He offers a red chair, a big red fire engine, a big red flying parachute, and so on, but Owl isn't fooled! Eventually Monkey comes clean, but in a humorous closing twist, Owl gets a taste of his own medicine. Bernstein's message about stewardship, responsibility, and trust when caring for another’s belongings is certainly present, but the humorous interactions, depicted in Magoon's splendidly over-the-top illustrations in bold colors, thick black outlines, and outsize expressions, are the star of the show. Vibrant art and a comical text make this a great pick for storytime. - Copyright 2018 Booklist. Loading...
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