Do Unto Otters: A Book About Manners
MaryAnn Karre, Horace Mann Elementary School, Binghamton, NY -- School Library Journal, 10/14/2008
Do Unto Otters: A Book About Manners.DVD. 12 min. with tchr’s. guide. Weston Woods. 2008. ISBN 0-545-09213-2. $59.95; CD with hardcover book, ISBN 978-0-545-09455-9: $29.95.
PreS-Gr 3–Mr. Rabbit is not sure that he knows how to act around his new neighbors, the otters, and he’s afraid that they won’t all get along in Laurie Keller’s picture book (Holt, 2007). Wise Mr. Owl flies in to advise Rabbit and to teach him the Golden Rule: “Do unto otters as you would have otters do unto you.” Rabbit thinks of how he would like to be treated, and the otters illustrate each character trait. They demonstrate saying “please,“ “thank you,“ and “excuse me“; and they show that they can be honest, cooperative, and kind. Rabbit realizes that there will be no problem with the otters as long as they treat each other with respect and consideration. This manners lesson is a lively romp, from Rabbit's “Doo Dee Doo” song and a catchy banjo tune to the fun puns and wordplays. For example, Rabbit hopes that the otters will not tease him when he has a “bad hare day,” and a bee passes out “bees-ness cards.” Keller’s colorful illustrations have been animated, bringing each animal to life. The author is interviewed at the end of the tale. The DVD can be viewed with or without read-along subtitles. A witty and wonderful book has been made into an even more engaging and entertaining film.
