What's at the end of this piece of rope? by Tania Cox

Ill. by Jedda Robaard. Hachette, 2018. ISBN 9780734418012
(Age: 2-6) Themes: Problem solving. Collaboration. Co-operation. In What's at the end of this piece of rope? Tania Cox uses this simple repeated refrain in her enjoyable and engaging picture book. She explores the concepts of working together and cooperation. Young children will enjoy repeating the question, predicting which animal will help and what is at the end of this rope.
A little girl's imagination creates a lush green jungle where her animal toys come to life and a little thread becomes a long, tight rope that needs to be investigated. First a monkey steps up to help, then a mother kangaroo pulls as well, next gorilla and then hippo assists with a big heave. There's a scary surprise and a delightful ending.
Jedda Robaard's enchanting pastel watercolour and pencil scenes are playful and imaginative, helping create the cumulative journey and building the excitement of the reveal. Even the front cover with the raised sections is a tactile entry into the book. Tania Cox's easy to read story shows key concepts suitable for preschool and child-care children. Read aloud and discuss the reasons for collaborating and helping others, spend time making predictions and wondering, even using manners by saying please and thank you is shown. With colourful large and small size text, fun placement and expressive sounds as they pull, humph and heave, this is a delightful story just right for viewing and sharing.
Rhyllis Bignell