Review of WHOO STANK The Cajun Skunk

[Maduabuchi Okwiya N Eze]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "WHOO STANK The Cajun Skunk" by Kedoskee.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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Whoo Stank is an amazingly lovable, kind, and intelligent skunk. He is exceptional, but that doesn't save him from the stereotypical labels and perceptions other animals have come to assume about skunks. In school, he suffers from intermittent rejection, bullying, and libel, especially from Fangor, a cruel fox and schoolmate.

The increasingly despondent Whoo Stank needs urgent help; as it appears, his parents' offer of positive affirmations may not be enough to save his drowning soul. We would have to find out what the presence of Toots, a crocodile; Cootie, a hedgehog; and Samantha, a bobcat, in Whoo Stank's life portends, as well as the interventions of the teachers, Ms. Ollie and Mr. Piggles.

There are several interesting aspects of this children's story, but what impressed me most was its exploration of issues that affect children's psychological and social well-being. Two such issues are rejection and bullying. Studies have shown that victims of these crimes against humanity cut across children of all races, so we can imagine the tortuous experiences those vulnerable minds go through.

Kedoskee did a great job pointing out how unchecked negative energies can ruin even the most treasured child. This can be seen in Whoo Stank's deteriorating self-confidence and disillusionment. It was also a great moment for me to go through the themes of responsive parenting and raising teachers who are knowledgeable, sensitive, and compassionate. Whoo Stank's parents, Fangor's parents, Ms. Ollie, and Mr. Piggles were notable characters used in developing these themes.

This story also preaches the need to recognise the strengths in diversity and shun discrimination of all sorts, which are healthy mindsets children need to grow up with. I was astonished by the amazing outcome of the project Mr. Piggles initiated between Whoo Stank and Fangor. Furthermore, the illustrations were quite impressive, as they added depth to the story, aiding in its enjoyment and comprehension.

However, I would have appreciated it more if the author had included more details about Whoo Stank's schooling. Supplying such details as the name of the school and his ascent through the grades would have been helpful. The narration of his schooling and graduation was, in my opinion, rushed. Also, there were some blank pages in the Kobo e-book version I read, so I wouldn't know what the problem was.

Furthermore, I couldn't understand why Whoo Stank was being avoided because of his foul smell, even though the author makes us believe he smells nice, unlike other skunks. Does it mean Fangor and others didn't notice that during the many times that they came into contact with Whoo Stank? I sure didn't find that narrative logical or realistic.

I rate Whoo Stank: "The Cajun Skunk" four out of five stars. It is an interesting children's story with essential lessons about life and living. Its messages on respect for individual identity, personal awareness, and development are notable. Moreso, the book was well edited; I found just a few errors in it. A star was removed due to the aforementioned concerns. Lastly, readers between four and nine years old would better enjoy this story.

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WHOO STANK The Cajun Skunk
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[Kebun Bunga]

The feedback on the review for "Whoo Stank: The Cajun Skunk" appreciates the exploration of issues that affect children's psychological and social well-being, such as rejection and bullying. The reviewer commends the author for addressing these topics and emphasizes the importance of responsive parenting and compassionate teachers. The message of recognizing the strengths in diversity and shunning discrimination is praised, particularly the outcome of the project initiated by Mr. Piggles between Whoo Stank and Fangor. The illustrations are noted for adding depth to the story. Some areas of improvement mentioned include the desire for more details about Whoo Stank's schooling and a more logical and realistic narrative regarding the avoidance of Whoo Stank due to his foul smell. The book is rated four out of five stars for its interesting story and important life lessons.