For the Love of Lettuce

Caterpillar pals Parsley and Zip are opposite in everything. Parsley and Zip hatched on the same leaf, on the same day, but while Parsley lives in the moment, Zip plans every detail of their lives. Zip grows increasingly stressed over Parsley’s lack of concern. One day, they run out of lettuce. Ever the well-prepared caterpillar, Zip has a plan to find more lettuce, but it involves facing some scary chickens. As they journey toward the chicken-guarded lettuce, Parsley stops to play, eat, and rest, savoring the trip, while Zip urges his laid-back friend to keep up. A frustrated Zip has had enough and decides things should change. The next day, something has changed—Parsley has transformed into a cocoon! Nothing Zip does makes his friend react, and Zip is sad that he doesn’t have a solution. Trying to think of what Parsley would do, Zip finally starts to enjoy life, but the chickens are still around—and they’re hungry. Zip can’t think of a plan, but Parsley, now a butterfly, appears and saves Zip. This amusing tale conveys the message that flexibility is important in friendship, though it might have been stronger if the duo had learned from each other instead of Zip learning to be more like Parsley. Still, the book is funny and sweet. Much of the humor lies in the cute illustrations, with comical expressions from the two caterpillars. (This book was reviewed digitally.) An endearing friendship tale that’s a little one-sided yet still brimming with kid appeal. (Picture book. 3-6) * Kirkus Reviews *
Zip and Parsley are two caterpillars with very different personalities. Zip likes plans and routines, while Parsley loves to live in the moment. When Parsley unthinkingly chomps through the last of their lettuce, Zip has a plan for finding more, which contains an element of danger. A leafy green garden is just on the other side of a nearby fence, but it’s home to several free-range, bug-eating chickens. Zip and Parsley begin their journey, with Parsley making frequent stops to eat and play, much to Zip’s annoyance. The next morning dawns with the pair at the fence—only Parsley has disappeared into a chrysalis. This was not part of Zip’s plan! Zip is sad to lose his friend, and when his garden exploration is cut short by the arrival of the chickens, Zip must think on his toes like Parsley would. Happily (though it’s scientifically suspect), Parsley hatches and soars to the rescue just in time. Dicmas’ entertaining illustrations employ cool colors and lots of laughs as this odd couple learns to embrace change and personal difference. * Booklist Online *