Happy Birthday Chimp and Zee

This picture book has vibrant illustrations and a lively story of two mischievous twin monkeys, Chimp and Zee, on their birthday. After opening their cards, Papakey informs them there’s one more birthday surprise waiting for them in the middle of Jungletown, so off they scoot (on their birthday scooters). The route is rather busy – everyone seems to be heading in the same direction – but Chimp and Zee are far too excited and rush headlong down the steep slope, intent on taking the short cut through the Slimy Swamp. They land right in it of course, and while waiting for Mumkey and Papakey to come and find them, they see a Big Green Thing appear through the trees. Luckily it gets frightened off when they sound their new hooters. When they finally get to the centre of Jungletown with the rest of the family, there’s a large tent. Two flaps here open out to reveal all their friends and a splendid birthday tea laid out for them, including a huge cake brought in by the Big Green Thing. They’re all so excited they ‘go absolutely bananas! “Goodness!” says Mumkey. “It’s like a chimpanzee’s tea party!” “It IS Chimp and Zee’s tea party!” shouts everybody.’

The text is also peppered with rhymes which add to the richness of the telling. It’s a fun read, through an engaging narrative and delightful illustrations.