While the days in the life of a worm don't seem to be the stuff that great books are made of...think again. "Diary of a Worm" is a clever and hilarious look at the world through the eyes of a fictional worm.

Written in traditional diary-entry format, readers are introduced to the little boy worm and members of his worm family, and get to see how the little worm perceives his daily experiences. Familiar activities like going to school and playing with friends take on a new meaning when this little worm describes his take on the same. For example, making macaroni necklaces in art class has never been funnier than when readers see the worms wearing single pieces of macaroni encircling their awkward worm necks. Likewise, the "what do you want to be when you grow up" game is hilarious in worm world when the little worm journals that he wants to be a secret service agent. A worm in sunglasses and earpiece is priceless. Additionally, rules are also part of a worm's life. While little worm doesn't get in trouble for tracking mud through the house, he must never interrupt his father while he is eating the newspaper. Every diary entry is more of the same clever marriage between everyday occurences and worm-specific humor.

The illustrations are equally clever and infinitely amusing. Each diary entry is illustrated by cartoonish characters engaged in hilarious activities. For example, while exercising good manners by saying "hello" to the first ant he saw one morning, the little worm journaled that he was there all day long, as there were 600 more ants marching directly behind the leader. It is the picture of the ants marching that really brings the humor behind this scenario to life. Additionally, the fine details are endless. Even the dentist's mname tag is amusing...Dr. D. Kay!

This book is perfect for readers who are reading independently but who still enjoy looking at picture books too. It is also a fun book for parents to read to young readers who might still need a little help understanding the dry humor and subtle undertones of this book.

Doreen Cronin has several children's books that have received high regard. This book is just another example of her clever writing and interesting perspective.