You Look Yummy!

K-Gr 2—Fatherhood was not on the menu. When an unexpected turn of events lands Tyrannosaurus with a newborn ankylosaurus, he feels compelled to take care of this innocent child. Not only does Yummy depend on this gray giant with multicolored highlights, he looks up to him, too, which imbues this foster father with the desire not to disappoint. Tyrannosaurus is one cool dad, defending Yummy from other dinosaurs, teaching him all he knows, and ultimately parting with him because it's what's best for the child. This bittersweet ending leaves readers with the sense that Yummy made an impression on Tyrannosaurus, changing him for good. Miyanishi's art is distinctive; explosive in color with its prehistoric yellow, orange, and green combination; and expressive in form (Tyrannosaurus arches over the gutter as he prepares to eat this tiny morsel). Overall the tone is a mixture of silly, sad, and serious, and yet the style augments this with a range of subtler feelings, showing hints of a father's concern and pride. At times, sound effects enhance the story, while at others, the silence underscores important moments. This is just the first of Tyrannosaurus's stories to be translated, and if all of them explore themes as rich as responsibility and a child's well-being, then hopefully many more will follow.