From the publisher: While Batman is busy fighting crime on the mean streets of Gotham, it's up to us to keep an eye on the Batmobile. The only problem? The Penguin really, REALLY wants to drive it! Should we let him?
In this all-new story from the Usual Gang of Idiots at MAD Magazine, the best-selling children's book Don't Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus is parodied with the heroes and villains from the world of DC Comics' Batman!
When my kids were little, I must have read Mo Willems's Don't Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus one hundred times, and that's not including the two sequels we owned, as well. However, I never minded because the story was so cute and on point (the pigeon behaved like a toddler), that it was entertaining. It was short, with only a few words per page and some very simple illustrations. I liked it, and my kids liked it.
Enter Don't Let the Penguin Drive the Batmobile by Jacob Lambert. First, I'm a huge Batman fan. Second, as I mentioned, I have fond memories of reading Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus. So, when I had the opportunity to read and review this book, I jumped at the chance. The verdict? Don't Let the Penguin Drive the Batmobile is FANTASTIC!
Lambert perfectly captures the tone and style of Willems's classic. The Penguin acts just like the pigeon, hence he acts like a toddler. The way Penguin asks to drive and the emotions that go with it echo perfectly the original book. The pacing is similar and many of the story beats are the same. Additionally, Lambert manages to slip in many familiar Batman characters (Commissioner Gordon, Joker, etc.) to add to the fun.
The art is also picture perfect. Tom Richmond has emulated Willems's style. The simple, almost child-like drawing make the characters very kid friendly and charming.
Don't Let the Penguin Drive the Batmobile by Jacob Lambert is an absolute winner. More than just a spoof, it can be seen as a loving tribute to a children's classic. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and I'm a little sad that my kids are no longer young enough to ask me to read it to them nightly. I highly recommend this, particularly if you are a parent and Batman fan. This would also make a nice gift to young Batman fans.
I received a preview copy of this book from Mad Magazine and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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