Hello, friends! Our book today is Turkey’s Sandtastic Beach Day, written by Wendi Silvano and illustrated by Lee Harper, the latest title in the pair’s series of pun-filled Turkey Trouble books.

This time around, Turkey and his barnyard friends have been brought to the boardwalk to be in a petting zoo for the Children’s Festival, but Turkey finds himself drawn to the sea. Wanting to check out the sand and surf, he and his animal friends devise a series of (questionably) covert costumes to let him sneak his way onto the beach, but each time he is caught by the lifeguard or Farmer Jake. Will Turkey find a way get his day of fun in the sun?

Just fine. The Turkey Trouble series, which typically revolves around holiday celebrations like Christmas or Valentine’s Day, has created some charmingly goofy stories with their signature format in the past, but the premise of this one seems thin at the jump. It’s never clearly explained why Turkey is not allowed on the beach, and this conceit seems to be quickly forgotten by the end of the story when it conflicts with the resolution. The puns are suitably groan-worthy, and young readers will likely enjoy them and Turkey’s ludicrous attempts at camouflage (though these, like the premise, seem a little weak when compared to the series’ previous titles). Still, the ending is cute and satisfying, the artwork dynamic, the length good for a storytime, and it gave JJ and I a few chuckles. Overall, it has the potential for a light and fun summer read, and it’s Baby Bookworm approved.

(Note: A copy of this book was provided to The Baby Bookworm by a representative of the publisher in exchange for an honest review.)