About this book

In this funny, underwater picture book, Plankton says hello to Mussel, but Mussel doesn't say anything back. Plankton tries everything to get quiet Mussel to talk. In fact, Plankton gets VERY pushy about it! Will Mussel ever open his mouth? Kids will relate to Plankton's frustration with Mussel, and they will be anxious to see what happens when Mussel finally does open his mouth... Geisel Award Honoree Jonathan Fenske delivers a laugh-out-loud ocean story, and this is the perfect follow-up to Barnacle is Bored.

Reviews

Praise for Plankton Is Pushy:

"Kids will want [to] revisit this book, enjoying time and time again the surprise ending while also developing an attention to detail and the possibilities of interpretation." -- The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Book

Praise for Barnacle is Bored:

“This playful book addresses the universal problem of feeling bored while everyone else appears to be having a great time. ...Barnacle's round eyes and expressive eyebrows create endearing and silly expressions.” -- School Library Journal

"In a mischievous skit of a story, Geisel Award Honoree Fenske (A Pig, a Fox, and a Box) introduces a dyspeptic barnacle for whom the sea grass is always greener–until it isn't. ...From narration that consists entirely of Barnacle's mopey monologue to a dockside environment defined by creamy blue water, a bit of sand, and a couple planks, Fenske keeps it simple, deploying his closing jokes with confident comic timing." -- Publishers Weekly

"What better protagonist could there be to illustrate boredom than a sedentary barnacle? ...This tale where 'the seaweed is always greener' is an entertaining antidote to boredom." -- Booklist

"Fenske's open, flat-colored, loose-lined, animated cartoon style and simple dialogue-bubble text in a large, bold font are inviting for new readers." -- Kirkus Reviews