Open Wide - by Laurie Keller (Paperback)

About the Book

Packed with zany characters, interesting facts, and information on brushing and flossing to prevent tooth decay, this fun book helps young readers have a better appreciation for taking care of their teeth. Full color.

Book Synopsis

From the author/illustrator of The Scrambled States of America, here is a fun-filled introduction to teeth.

"Before the principal's announcements, will you all please stand and recite our pledge: 'I pledge allegiance to this mouth and to the dentist who takes care of us. And to the gums on which we stand, strong and healthy, with toothbrushes and toothpaste for all.'"

It's time for tooth school and Dr. Flossman is excited to meet the incoming class of 32--eight incisors, four canines, eight premolars, and twelve molars, including the four wisdom teeth. There's just so much to learn--from brushing and flossing to dentin and pulp to every student's nightmare: tooth decay!

Best read with a toothbrush in hand, this hilarious book is full of interesting facts (for instance, George Washington's teeth were not made of wood, despite popular belief) and a classroom full of quirky characters. Young readers will laugh their way to a better appreciation for those pearly whites that beckon them to brush. And from there it's just a short hop to flossing.

This title has Common Core connections.

Review Quotes

"Entertaining and amusing." --The New York Times

"A perfect gift for the dentist who has everything. Every waiting room (and library) needs a copy." --Kirkus Reviews (Starred Review)

"Both kids and grown-ups who split their sides." --School Library Journal

"Loaded with hilarious text, equally funny illustrations, and crazy side-comments and wise-cracks from assorted teeth, the net result is a book that clearly demonstrates that learning IS fun!" --Kendal Rautzhan, syndicated columnist

"A book to delight both kids and adults." --Tricia Gardella, The Union Democrat

"Kids of all ages will love cavorting through the pages... Vibrantly illustrated and beautifully laid out." --Kids Book Review

About the Author

Laurie Keller is the acclaimed author-illustrator of Do Unto Otters, Arnie, the Doughnut, and The Scrambled States of America, among numerous others. She grew up in Muskegon, Michigan, and always loved to draw, paint and write stories. She earned a B.F.A. at Kendall College of Art and Design, then worked at Hallmark as a greeting card illustrator for seven-and-a-half years, until one night she got an idea for a children's book. She quit her job, moved to New York City, and soon had published her first book. She loved living in New York, but she has now returned to her home state, where she lives in a little cottage in the woods on the shore of Lake Michigan.