Review by School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 1-A parent and child test each other's patience and resolve in this first English-language edition of a popular Swedish picture book series. Koko is feeling contrary. Each time Bo asks him to do something, whether it is to come inside from the playground or put on a coat before they go to the store, the child responds with a vehement, "I DON'T WANT TO!" Instead of fighting Koko's defiance, Bo waits patiently for him to eventually figure out that the adult usually has a reason for his requests. While Bo's saintlike composure is taken to the limit by the end of the story, his love and devotion to Koko never wanes. The bright and colorful illustrations complement Koko and Bo's often heated and emotional exchanges while the deeply saturated warm and cool hues add to a sense of place as they move from their bright and cozy home to the gray outside world. Although Bo allows Koko the freedom to act on his rebellious desires, he is never really out of reach, and always ready with a sweater or a rewarmed breakfast just when Koko needs it. VERDICT A humorous and highly irreverent choice for storytime or one-on-one sharing. Recommended for purchase.-Laken Hottle, Providence -Community Library © Copyright 2018. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Horn Book Review
Elderly Bo lives with young Koko, who greets every direction with "I DON'T WANT TO!" Bo doesn't press, knowing that Koko will eventually see the logic behind wearing a coat (it's cold outside), getting out of bed (how else to get breakfast?), etc. Readers yearning for bratty Koko's comeuppance may be disappointed, but this sweet intergenerational-friendship tale from Sweden features beguiling skewed-line illustrations. (c) Copyright 2019. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
Two people, one big and one small, negotiate a relationship in this Swedish import.Little Koko has long yellow hair and is a frequent user of the expression, "I DON'T WANT TO!" Large Bo, who might be elderly, has very little hair and wears thin wire-rim glasses. Their story unfolds in a series of snapshot moments, text on the left-hand page describing the exchange illustrated on the right. They've been at the playground for four hours when Bo declares that it's time to go. Koko says no. Bo calmly responds, "Don't then," and leaves. After Koko returns home ("It was boring staying out alone"), the duo eats bedtime snacks and does crossword puzzles together. Koko puts up a fuss over bedtime, but Bo is unperturbed. The next day, Koko's resistance pops up over getting out of bed, finishing breakfast, and riding on their bicycle to the store to buy groceries. Koko tries to steal some marshmallows, and when Bo insists that they be returned, Koko refuses. Bo, who lets the store guards deal with Koko, has already purchased some marshmallows for later. Stern Bo's deep love is shown through actions. Adbge's pictures are square and simple, depicting both Koko and Bo with pale, pinkish skin. No gender is given to Koko, and, until the book's end, readers might assume that Bo, in pink, patterned top and full red slacks and purse, is female. Adbge assigns Bo a "his" near book's end. This, and the author's choice to present life without lecturing, shows uncommon respect for her readers. Sublime. (Picture book. 3-6) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
