Chickens May Not Cross the Road: and Other Crazy But True Laws

by Kathi Linz, Tony Griego (Illustrations)

It is against the law in Brooklyn, New York, for donkeys to sleep in bathtubs.
In Idaho you are not allowed to fish while sitting on a giraffe. In California you must not keep slugs as pets.

Yes, it’s the law—says so right on the state or city books.

Some of the more ludicrous laws in the history of our country come to light in this very funny and fascinating book for young citizens—citizens who have a special appreciation for the tyranny of stupid rules. Illustrated with wit and irony, this collection brings law to life and will have readers not only laughing but also thinking about their world in a new way.

Genres: Picture Books, Humor, Nonfiction, Childrens

32 pages, Hardcover

First published September 30, 2002

Reviews

[Edward ott · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would have given it five stars if their had been some background on why some of these weird laws had been made. hilarious book

[Emma Rothenfeld · Rating 3 out of 5]

The art was really fun and the laws were definitely weird, but I just wish they were in a specific order. Like by states or alphabetical order to make it easier on younger readers.

[Peacegal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Weird and arcane state laws have long been a ripe subject for children’s humor books. This one takes a step forward from the rest of the pack by illustrating the bizarre forbidden activities (such as a donkey sleeping in a bathtub, illegal in Brooklyn!) and taking time out to describe actual facts about the legislative process. Youngsters are given information such as how a bill becomes a law and why we need laws.

I found it interesting that one of the reasons given for our need for laws is “someone might shoot your dog or cat.” It struck me that this is not for lack of trying by the less humane segments of our society. In many states, dogs may be legally shot if the shooter claims they were chasing livestock or damaging any sort of property. And we have the perennial efforts by hunters in some rural states who wish to classify cats caught roaming freely as fair game. Or, a police officer could always do the deed.

[Nielson · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this hysterical book, kids will be astounded at the absurdity of some laws! The information in this book coupled with the bright and colorful illustrations makes it an exciting and informative read. The book goes into detail about why we have crazy laws, our need for laws and how laws are passed. This would be a fabulous book to use when teaching about the legislative process! It is a must in any school library!
EL-ESSENTIAL.

Labels: Elementary, Essential, curriculum connection

[Brenna Call · Rating 2 out of 5]

Silly trivia type nonfiction book about crazy/outdated laws that are found on the books of various towns in the United States. This book has many elements of other types of nonfiction as well including storybook nonfiction because of the big, beautiful illustrations accompanying the crazy laws on each page and survey nonfiction because the book also gives an overview of laws and how they are made and the importance of the branches of the government as they create each law.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't think this book would be worthwhile, because I feel like I've heard and read plenty of silly laws. But I REALLY like how this book combines the silly laws with actual information about the history of laws and how stupid laws came into existence -- that's what bumps this book up to four stars. I could see my kids REALLY being into this.

[Joanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book to my third graders after they discussed laws during social studies. This book was excellent to show the significance of state laws and how they impact the people. Students really enjoyed listening to this story and they laughed out loud at some of the absurd state laws. After reading this book, the class wrote a "pretend law" that they wish to implement at their school.

[Lola Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did you know that in Memphis, TN It is illegal to drive while sleeping? Kathi Linz book, published in 2002, highlights some of the ridiculous laws that have been passed in U.S. history. They can be downright giggle inducing - in Idaho it is illegal to to fish for trout if you are seated on a giraffe's back. Was that a big problem in Idaho? Enjoy.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I love about this book is its balance. We chuckled at the crazy laws and the creative drawings, AND I appreciated the pages that explained how the crazy laws came about and why we have laws in the first place.

[Sanjana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow there are a lot of LOONY laws! Such as: In Missouri, people must have a leash on their elephants! Boy, they are funny! You must read this book!

[Chanel · Rating 2 out of 5]

It is an ok book to introduce class laws or rules

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adorable book with important information. Even throws in a few funny laws to keep kids reading. Fun to use when teaching U.S. government.

[Maria]

Silly book about crazy laws. Would appeal to kids who enjoy trivia and just reading about silly things.

[Mckinley · Rating 5 out of 5]

awesome

[Steven · Rating 2 out of 5]

I would have been given a higher rating but I've heard all of these crazy laws before so the humor wasn't really there for me. In addition, I wasn't a fan of the illustrations.

[Wendy]

BL 5.1, .5 pts.

[Claire Binkley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Entertaining! This book definitely drew a laugh from the people around me. I had to pull it from the catalog today for low circulation purposes, but I still found it fun.

[Ebony]

i read it all of time.
i want it

[Allie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great for read aloud with Middle School students.