The Rooster Who Would Not Be Quiet!

This animated adaptation of Carmen Agra Deedy’s 2017 picture book is narrated by the author with a choice of English or Spanish narration. The village of La Paz is a very noisy place where residents find it hard to hear, sleep, and think because of barking dogs, crooning mothers, humming engines, warbling fountains, and singing residents, among other loud sounds. New mayor Don Pepe promises peace and quiet and declares a rule of silence (dogs are muzzled and teapots are afraid to whistle), with the town becoming "silent as a tomb." Seven quiet years pass until a rooster arrives, loudly crowing "Kee-kee-ree-KEE!" in a tree beneath the mayor’s window. Even when the tree is cut down and the rooster is put in a cage without food, the headstrong fowl continues to sing. The nasty mayor threatens to kill the rooster until the townspeople gather to sing "Kee-kee-ree-KEE!" in unison and say adios to the mayor, allowing the town to once again become noisy and vibrant. Eugene Yelchin’s brightly colored mixed-media illustrations—along with some lively ethnic music laced with guitar, drum, and brass overtones—add bounce to this entertaining title that imparts a subtle message about free speech and expression. Also featuring a read-along option, this is recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (S. Beauregard)