Okapi Tale

In this easily digestible follow-up to Noodlephant, unionization, democracy, and the deleterious effects of capitalism are explained through Noodlephant’s continued adventures. With the Phantastic Noodler now public property, animals visit Beaston in droves to transform objects into noodles, and Noodlephant embarks on an international noodle-tasting trip. But as Noodlephant samples toothsome noodles in Japan and China, a snooty “Okapi-talist” purchases the Noodler from Beaston’s mayor and privatizes the town’s noodle industry. While wealthy kangaroo citizens approve of the Okapi’s “job creating” and “beautification,” Noodlephant’s friends rally for a better future. Returning from her voyage, Noodlephant brings gifts—and a plan. Steele’s fluid ink illustrations bolster the comedy and amplify the underlying messages, including capitalism’s role in pollution. Though some logic is iffy, this worthy sequel effectively encourages community organizing and compassion. Ages 6–10. (Oct.)