Pirates Don't Change Diapers

I visited the National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature located at 102 Cedar in downtown Abilene (aka "The Storybook Capital of Texas"). This summer, the museum featured original artwork by illustrator, David Shannon. He wrote and illustrated A Bad Case of the Stripes, Duck on a Bike, and No David!, a 1999 Caldecott Honor Book, and several more. Shannon uses acrylics, and his illustrations are colorful, bold, and entertaining. They made me smile.

Browsing through the Center's bookstore, I picked up a copy of Pirates Don't Change Diapers written by Melinda Long and illustrated by David Shannon. The book was autographed by Shannon, as well.

 

 After reading the story, I knew it was the perfect title for July's "Mimi & Grandpa's Book of the Month." Pirates and a baby...an appealing and amusing combination for my grandkids.

Jeremy Jacob's mom instructs him not to wake up his napping Dad and baby sister, Bonney Anne. After Mom leaves to buy milk, Jeremy's pirate friends show up. Their ship was wrecked and they need the treasure buried in the backyard to replace it. When Bonney Anne wakes up, Jeremy insists the pirates help babysit and keep her happy. Each time the pirates attempt to dig for the treasure, Bonney Anne needs attention. And then, the pirates lose the treasure map. Will they ever be able to dig up the treasure and repair the ship?

I hope you'll put Pirates Don't Change Diapers on your "Read Aloud Bucket List." It's a delight.