School Library Journal 2004 Kindergarten-Grade 3­This clever, well-executed book will grab children's attention and make them laugh. By showing examples of inappropriate behavior for humans that is natural for wild animals, readers are left to draw their own conclusions. And they will. For example, camels spit but polite people don't. Lions roar, but people who do the same are considered rude. Shepherd's illustrations are witty and expressive, and add lots of extra details to the text. The final spread features an illustrated chart that lists behaviors (Are you allowed toŠ?) down the left side, and headshots of animals and a child across the top, with each matrix filled in with a "YES" or "NO." This book, about a somewhat neglected topic, is a charmer for all libraries that serve children­or wild animals. A great read-aloud for one or many. Kirkus August 2004 "Eat whatever you like" or "You can stay up all night." With a pig for a mother, or a fruit bat father, these rules might apply, and in this appealing offering by first-time author and illustrator, children get a chance to live like animals. They'll have a good time doing it, too. In Shepherd's humorous full-bleed spreads, rendered in oil and gesso on paper, Mother Piggy smiles approvingly as a boy balances over his head 18 arcing scoops on an ice cream cone. On the next spread, he prances in pajamas under the light of the moon, while his nocturnal parents, hanging from a tree, watch with wide eyes. A clever chart is included at the end, asking, "Are you allowed to . . ." Animal faces line the top; alternative question endings ("burp out loud?"; ". . . dunk food in your drink?") run down the side and the yes and no answers tell all. Lessons with levity." * Minnesota Book Award Finalist * Staff Book Picks: Atlanta Parent.com