Before the story even begins, readers may find themselves wondering why the author titled  a story about kindness, “Punch!” The inside front cover directs the reader to “look at the pictures very carefully” and notes, “Some words have more than one meaning.” The copyright pages shows Badger and Snaily sharing good times in a  series of snapshots .

Badger, the main character, bursts onto the first page of the story, “looking for trouble”, angry and red in the face. Pulling a wagon carrying among other things, a shovel and pitchfork, he  proceeds to physically hurt Elephant, Bear,  Frog and Moose, without provocation or explanation.

The blocky cut out characters on a white background, allow us to focus on the animals’ facial expressions and the undercurrents of what is left unsaid. The friends are understandably bewildered and make a three-part plan to “teach (Badger) a lesson”.

In Part 1, as Badger digs a hole,  Bear approaches  him with “Punch!” (to drink); in Part 2, Badger smooths a pile of dirt and is surprised by Moose and Frog, who give Badger a “Belt!” and “Sock!” (to wear). Part 3 shows Badger placing flowers on a gravestone for his friend Snaily and Elephant “really let(ting) Badger have it” . . . .  a “Slug!” (to care for). Readers will enjoy the way the story plays with the double meaning of the action words that turn into symbols of tenderness and empathy, even as they feel distress at understanding that Snaily has died.

As Badger accepts the compassion his friends are showing him, and allows them to support him in his grief over losing Snaily, something in him loosens and allows Badger to return the kindness.

This would be a positive  story for families to read together to discuss empathy and an  important life lesson:  sometimes we lash out when we’re in pain and friends can choose to respond in kind, or with kindness.  Punch!may  need an immediate second reading for young readers to synthesize the story’s words with its images and message.

Recommended for public school libraries.

Deanna Contrino, SLMS
K-2 Resource Librarian, Scarborough Schools