When Matty is too ill to attend the Queen's birthday party with his family, the young boy is inconsolable, refusing to be comforted by any of his parents' suggestions for things he can do while home with his grandfather. Then a flying crocodile appears and escorts him to the birthday party of the leonine king of the beasts. Here he enjoys cake, and numerous fun rides provided by the animal guests...

This recent stand-alone picture-book from the prolific British children's author and artist Judith Kerr, creator of the wonderful stories about Mog the forgetful cat, as well as the autobiographical novel, When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit, displays a number of themes common in its creator's work. A somewhat surreal sensibility, the use of a fantastical dream (or non-dream) sequence to facilitate the adventure, appealing watercolor artwork - all these are present here, as they are in so many of Kerr's books. Recommended to fans of the author/artist, and to anyone looking for children's stories about being ill, and having to forego an anticipated treat. ( )