Synopsis
Describes in pictures and words a variety of zany wigs and the people who wear them. Based on a song by the B-52s.
Lyrics by the rock band The B-52's are transformed into a picture book. A story/song that enthusiastically celebrates wig wearing.
| Details | | Publication Date: | 1995-09-01 | | Illustrator: | Laura Levine | | Edition Description: | Illustrated |
| Size | | Height: | 10.0 in | | Width: | 8.5 in | | Thickness: | 0.5 in | | Weight: | 12.0 oz |
Publisher's Note
Bold, retro colors and zany characters bring to life the erratic humor of the B'52's song "Wig!". From cheap toupees to big bouffants, everybody's sporting a wig as they journey to the neon side of town. Along with fun-filled lyrics and head-piling hairdos are offbeat sight gags that will keep children in stitches.
Industry Reviews
A younger generation gets a hair-raising helping of classic kitsch, courtesy of the B-52's. Adapted from a song on the group's 1986 album Bouncing off the Satellites, the book celebrates hairy headgear as men, women and children alike cover their pates with tall wigs, curly wigs, flowered wigs and indescribably weird wigs. There is no plot, just fanciful impressions of lyrics like ``Carol's fall fell/ Bubba's got a big bouffant on.'' Outlandishly coiffed characters stroll past a theater marquee advertising Hair (``Next week: The Braid-y Bunch''); a green-tressed fellow puns, ``Fred bought his hairpiece at the thrift store you know why? Because he didn't want TO PAY'' (those who miss the joke are clued in by a ``Toupee Special'' sign). The authors have rearranged the song's verses, interrupting the original rhythm, but only ardent bouncing-ball followers will object. In debut illustrator Levine's cartoonish acrylic paintings, strong diagonal lines and undiluted colors convey a buoyant, extroverted spirit; varying typefaces and creatively placed text increase the eye-boggling effect. This volume could easily prompt a dress-up session or even a trip to what the B-52's call ``the neon side of town.'' All ages. (Sept.)
Bernstein
K-Gr 3-The lyrics to the B-52's song "Wig" (from the 1986 album Bouncing Off the Satellites), illustrated in a zany style. The year is 2525 and everyone is heading to the "...neon side of town." "Julia's got a wig, Phyllis has a wig...Carol's fall fell, Bubba's got a big bouffant on." The hairdos are checkered, spiraled, flowered, purple, green-one sports a fish bowl; another is shaped like a birthday cake, yet another like a Christmas tree. Bright acrylic illustrations are done in a pop-cartoon style; a variety of typefaces adds to the dazzling art. Levine accurately captures the flavor of the group's music. Still, the audience for this title remains a mystery. It has no plot or substance. The humor ("Fred bought his hairpiece at a thrift store...because he didn't want TO PAY!") might appeal to older readers, but the only people who will really appreciate this book are hard-core B-52's fans and their kids.?Helen Rosenberg, Chicago Public Library, IL
Lopate
K-Gr 3-The lyrics to the B-52's song "Wig" (from the 1986 album Bouncing Off the Satellites), illustrated in a zany style. The year is 2525 and everyone is heading to the "...neon side of town." "Julia's got a wig, Phyllis has a wig...Carol's fall fell, Bubba's got a big bouffant on." The hairdos are checkered, spiraled, flowered, purple, green-one sports a fish bowl; another is shaped like a birthday cake, yet another like a Christmas tree. Bright acrylic illustrations are done in a pop-cartoon style; a variety of typefaces adds to the dazzling art. Levine accurately captures the flavor of the group's music. Still, the audience for this title remains a mystery. It has no plot or substance. The humor ("Fred bought his hairpiece at a thrift store...because he didn't want TO PAY!") might appeal to older readers, but the only people who will really appreciate this book are hard-core B-52's fans and their kids.‘Helen Rosenberg, Chicago Public Library, IL
School Library Journal (01/01/1996)
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