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When Stanley saw how tall his grass was, he decided to get
out the lawn mower. Faced with this mundane task, he begins
mowing in the same old back and forth pattern he has always
used before. Up and back, up and back. Suddenly a rustling
noise startles Stanley. It’s Hank the Snake who doesn’t want
to tangle with the lawn mower. Hank slithers over the short
grass and slips into another patch of tall grass seeking
cover.
Hank gives Stanley an idea. Why not mow the lawn
differently? Pleased with himself Stanley now mows zigs and
zags much like the movements Hank makes.
In his second Stanley book (the first being   Stanley Goes for
a Drive), author/illustrator Frazier uses
strong composition, bold color, scale and surprise. His
simple way of illustrating will charm young readers.
Stanley, with his extra long legs and small upper torso,
manages to turn the boring into the beautiful and
interesting when he mows like Hank slithers.
Stanley appeals to children on two levels. He is very
curious, but also very basic. Frazier promises we’ll see
more of this oddly shaped character in the future.
This is a good solid picture book with unique artwork and a
message that applauds creativity. It’s just doesn’t deserve
five stars. I reserve that rating for the award winners on
bookshelves now like  Giant Children,  Duck for President and
 Diary of a Worm.
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