One of the unanticipated aspects of parenthood is how much you start discuss poo, wee and pants – and beyond the rainbow of baby’s nappy contents. In my limited experience, moving a two-year old out of nappies necessitates plenty of discussion of bodily waste and the benefits of ‘big boy/girl’ pants (featuring a cartoon character of choice, obvs).
This is a great book to tap into the latter motivator – pirates love their pants! So will you! There’s a great balance between silliness (sharks in underpants?!) and rollicking adventure – all delivered in polished, pacey verse.
“Sharks in fancy underpants! We’ve found Big Knickers Bay!”
The adventures of our band of fearless rogues concludes with the triumphant capture of the Golden Underpants. But it’s a nice touch that the book ends with a view of a neatly gender-neutral ‘you’ picking out your own pants – relating it back to a potty-trainer’s own exploits. Indeed, the back page is now required viewing for my 2yo to pick out the best pair of illustrated knickers (the ones with a ghost on, btw).
I do love the pace and rhyme in this book, which twists your tongue but not too much. Plus, I’m a bit of a sucker for a portrait-orientation shift in a picture book to keep you on your toes (see what I mean, below).
And, while it’s great for toddlers, this book has a broader appeal as, of course, a penchant of toilet humour doesn’t end after potty training …
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