Outstanding in the Rain

Reach for this book when your child starts noticing the funny ways words can sound alike, or when you want to turn a rainy day into a celebration of curiosity. It is the perfect choice for a young reader who is beginning to master phonics and loves the 'gotcha' moment of a clever riddle. The story follows a young boy celebrating his birthday at a vibrant Coney Island, but the real magic lies in the linguistic gymnastics on every page. Through the use of oronyms, phrases that sound identical but look different, like 'ice cream' and 'I scream', Frank Viva creates a playful environment where mistakes are just opportunities for discovery. This book fosters a sense of wonder and intellectual confidence, showing children that language is a puzzle meant to be played with. It is an excellent bridge for kids moving from simple picture books to more complex wordplay, wrapped in a joyous, retro-inspired aesthetic.