Norman PhartEphant
We get some weird stuff at BookPage. Recent books about head lice come to mind. And DVDs. And plush toys. But I think today’s delivery from “Fierce Fun Toys” might take the cake (sensitive readers: you might want to turn away): Norman PhartEphant! This children’s book by Angela Larson is about an African elephant who is adopted by a U.S. zoo. The change in diet apparently throws him for a loop, and—you guessed it—flatulence ensues. Here’s a line from the story:
With Alfrebit’s great ears,
he must hear me fart. But,
if he misses the sound,
he can catch the stink.
Best of all (worst of all?), the book comes with a Norman plush toy complete with a tail that you can squeeze for sound effects. Norman has been sitting on my desk all morning, and passersby have practically worn out the battery.
What do you think. . . genius product development or crackpot idea?
I WANT ONE!
Great toy for office jokes, but wouldn’t give it or the book to a child. Remember – what you read to him will come out of his mouth at the most embarrassing moments. What’s funny among adults is not always funny coming from a child. BAD idea!
Norman is fabulous. He is a wonderful addition in any home. At this moment he is in a biology laboratory at the university of Milan. The accompanying book is a wonderful story. Not only does one learn about NATURAL body functions (come on Tammy EVERYONE pharts) your child learns about geography. I highly recommend Norman.
I think its a great idea – this may not appeal to the adult eye, but this isn’t targeted towards adults. It hits perfect pitch for kids. My five year old son and his friends would particularly love this.
Anyone who has ordered the Norman books or has seen the toy would know that this is a great concept for children. Well written and well-made, the books and toys, respectively, are thoughtful and fantastic. The goal of this toy is to make children smile, and I personally have seen this happen again and again. Also, this is a clever way to introduce etiquette to children in a way that is entertaining and fun. I strongly recommend Norman.
OMG, I have the elephant which both my kids adore! Can’t wait to get the book which sounds kind of educational as well.
I bought two of these, one for my son, one for my father, and they were a huge hit with both of them. The story is thoughtful, and the sounds are so funny! Norman is a great way to take the seriousness out of something that everyone does, while teaching the appropriate manners and etiquette around that situation. If your family has a sense of humor, Norman is for you.
This is a great idea! I have an 11 year old son who already wore out one Norman phart battery and is on his second Norman. He liked it so much he wrote a feature article for it in school. In the meantime, Norman is the only plush animal he keeps in his bed (only a farting plushie is cool when you are 11.) He also gave it as a birthday present to his best friend who thought Norman was hilarious. The books would be a great addition.
I’m a pediatric nurse, and Norman flies off our hospital gift shop shelves. It cheers up the kids I take care of time and time again as well as providing the adults taking care of them with a much needed laugh. I would love for our hospital to carry the book.
I say genius product development! My 4 year old daughter loves Norman as do her friends. They always reach for Norman whenever they are over and lots of laughter, tail pulling and “excuse me” ensues. Just last night she asked for the book when I was reading to her before bed and of course it was followed by the inevitable “read it again.” Can’t wait to get the next one.
Love Norman. My two boys LOVE the humor of it, and I find myself laughing too. What a great toy – harmless and cuddly and fun. I would encourage any parent to indulge in the positive story of Norman. Your kids will toot anyway – as long as they say “excuse me”, wonderful!