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Dear Zoo

The Lift-the-flap Preschool Classic
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( 25,860 ratings, 836 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell is a delightful children's book where a child writes to the zoo asking for a pet. The zoo sends various animals, each of which is unsuitable in fun and surprising ways, until the perfect pet is finally found.
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Format: Board book

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might like this book if you enjoy delightful stories with engaging flaps to lift and discover different animals, perfect for young children who love interactive reading and surprises.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

Dear Zoo

The preschool classic lift-the-flap book from Rod Campbell, packed full of favourite zoo animals.

A special 40th anniversary edition of the classic lift-the-flap preschool favourite.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

In Dear Zoo, young readers embark on an interactive adventure as a child writes to the zoo asking for a pet. The zoo responds by sending a variety of animals, each with its unique qualities and surprises. Children can lift the sturdy flaps on each page to reveal which animals have been sent, including a playful monkey, a majestic lion, and a towering elephant. Each animal proves to have its challenges, leading to a delightful and satisfying conclusion as the zoo finally sends the perfect pet.

Created by the beloved Rod Campbell, Dear Zoo has captivated young audiences and their parents since its first publication in 1982. This 40th Anniversary Edition honours the timeless classic with the same bright, bold illustrations and engaging text that have made it a staple on bookshelves around the world. The rhythmic, repetitive structure is not only enjoyable but also helps to reinforce early learning skills such as prediction and memory.

The book’s design is tailor-made for toddlers' hands with its thick card pages, chunky cased cover, and durable flaps, ensuring long-lasting enjoyment and interactive play. This tactile experience helps to develop fine motor skills and keeps young readers engaged as they explore the colourful world Campbell has created.

Rod Campbell is also known for other preschool favourites, including Oh Dear! and Noisy Farm. His ability to create simple yet captivating stories has established him as a trusted figure in early childhood education. Dear Zoo remains one of his most cherished works, celebrated for its charming artwork, relatable narrative, and the way it encourages children to participate actively in the story.

Discover more of Rod Campbell's delightful creations with Look After Us, a lift-the-flap animal book that imparts a positive message about conservation and the importance of looking after our environment. This educational yet entertaining book is another must-have for young animal lovers.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell is praised for its delightful, repetitive narrative that engages young readers, making it a joy to read repeatedly. The flaps and animal surprises contribute to its enduring appeal.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781529074932

Publisher: Pan Macmillan

Format: Board book

Date Published: 06 January 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Macmillan Children's Books

Audience: Children

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 16.0mm

Width: 177.0mm

Height: 177.0mm

Weight: 279g

Pages: 18

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About the Author

Rod Campbell has been writing and illustrating children's books for over forty years. Best known for his classic lift-the-flap book, Dear Zoo, he is also the creator of the much-loved preschool character Buster. Ingeniously simple, with touches of gentle humour, Rod's books are loved by children, parents and teachers alike.

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