Slow Mo by Mark Sommerset

Mo is slow. Everyone loves Mo. Sloths love slow and Mo is the slowest sloth in Snuggle Town. Except for Bill, who doesn't move at all. Is Bill chill? Or is there more to Bill that meets the eye?

Author Mark Sommerset crafts a delightful, simple story featuring a whole snuggle of sloths. Jam-packed full of rhyme, Sommerset uses minimal words to convey a sweet story filled with humour and community. 

There's a clever little twist at the end that fits perfectly - not too soppy or too sweet, but enough to surprise and delight. The twist is a great marker for questions, allowing younger readers the chance to predict and reflect. Once revealed, there's lots of opportunity to dive deeper too.

Little readers I shared the book with loved the sloths names. They were in fits of laughter as we explored the wonder of language and came up with our names to fit. It's a great book to spark rich conversations, developing and enriching oral language.

Illustrator Carla Martell's bold playful illustrations are the perfect accompaniment. With muted background, Martell keeps the focus on the gorgeous animals. Each is delicately rendered with unique traits, emotions and personalities. 

Slow Mo was a delightful surprise. A seemingly simple story with so much to offer and a great reminder to take a breath and chill.

Reviewer: Rebekah Fraser

Scholastic