Rot, the Cutest in the World!

Written by Ben Clanton

Narrated by Jonathan Todd Ross

A mutant potato learns that he’s pear-fect just the way he is in this bright, fun, and silly picture book from the creator of It Came in the Mail that will have kids collapsing in giggles (and rescuing the contents of the vegetable drawer).

Rot is a mutant potato. Like most mutant potatoes, Rot loves all sorts of games and contests. So when he sees a sign for the “Cutest in the World Contest,” he can’t wait to enter.

But when Rot realizes who he’s up against—an itty-bitty baby bunny, a little-wittle cuddly kitten, and an eenie-weenie jolly jellyfish—he loses confidence. Will the judges find room in their hearts for an adorable mutant potato?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Jun 23, 2020
• ISBN: 9781705001578

Ben Clanton

Ben Clanton is the author/illustrator of the NARWHAL AND JELLY early graphic novel series as well as IT CAME IN THE MAIL, VOTE FOR ME!, and REX WRECKS IT. When Ben isn't doodling up stories (and often when he is) he likes to cook, explore outdoors, and play basketball. Ben lives in Tacoma, WA with his wife, son and goldendoodle pup.

Reviews for Rot, the Cutest in the World!

[abigailadams26 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Mutant potato Rot enters a cuteness contest in this amusing picture-book exploration of the ideas of beauty being in the eye of the beholder, and staying true to yourself. Intimidated by his fellow contestants - an adorable bunny, cute kitten and peppy jellyfish - Rot at first tries to imitate the competition, only to decide in the end to just be himself. His decision is effective, and really resonates with the judges, themselves somewhat rotten...Although I never would have imagined a rotting tuber vegetable making an appealing lead character in a picture-book, author/illustrator Ben Clanton managed to spin a tale in which just such a hero emerges. Rot, the Cutest in the World pairs an amusing story about imitation and being yourself with appealing artwork created using watercolors, colored pencils and (what else?) potato stamps. Recommended to readers who enjoy picture-books with a quirky, off-beat sense of humor, as well as to those looking for children's stories addressing the theme of self esteem and the confidence to be yourself.

[skyd17 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book is about a mutant potato named, Rot who loves competition. He signs up for a cute contest and starts to lose hope when he sees his adorable competitors. Ages: K-3rd. Illustrations: mixed media