When Gorilla goes walking

Bibliography

Grimes, Nikki. 2007. When Gorilla goes walking. Ill. by Shane Evans. New York: Orchard Books. ISBN 0439317703

Plot Summary

This collection of poems introduces Cecelia, an African-American girl, her best friend, also named Cecelia, and her cool “rain-cloud gray” cat, Gorilla. Through rhyming verse and a haiku, Nikki Grimes presents the antics of a feisty, proud cat and her devoted human.

Critical Analysis

The humorous poems in this collection are full of action and capture the crazy, independent spirit and loving nature of a cat. Even the name of the cat, Gorilla, invokes giggles. The true nature of Cecelia and Gorilla’s relationship is made clear in the poem “Learning the Rules”:

I run, I jump, I fetch, unless

my master turns away

and stretches ‘cross the carpet,

reclining still as stone,

ignoring me until I see

she wants to be alone.

The vibrant paintings of Cecelia and Gorilla compliment the poems. The smug kitty smiles, stretches, and pounces with glee, while Cecelia looks on with love and exasperation.

   

Review Excerpts

School Library Journal: “Simple language, a fresh childlike perspective, and fluid, funny illustrations make this book a standout.”

Book Links: “Grimes’ skillfully chosen sounds and rhythms echo the distinctly feline behavior, from erratic, zooming action to soothing, purring comforts.”

Connections

* Invite discussion with children about the crazy antics of cats they know .

* Have pairs of children read and act out the poems, with one child acting the part of Gorilla and the other Cecelia.