Zoo: Peek-a-Flap Board Book by Jaye Garnett and illustrated by Kasia Nowowiejska is a sturdy, lift-the-flap board book designed specifically for babies and toddlers (ages 0–3). Published by Cottage Door Press (2020, with reprints continuing strong), it remains one of the most popular animal-themed peek-a-boo books for very young children.
Animals & Scenes Featured
Typical spreads include:
- Lion → lift the flap to see the lion’s mane or a cub hiding
- Giraffe → flap reveals a long neck reaching for leaves or a baby giraffe
- Elephant → lift to see the trunk spraying water or a baby elephant
- Monkey → flap shows swinging vines or a baby clinging to mom
- Zebra, tiger, penguin, kangaroo, bear, and more
- Final spread often shows the whole zoo family together or a “peek-a-boo” mirror so baby can see themselves
Why Babies & Toddlers Love It
- Interactive fun — Lifting flaps builds fine motor skills and teaches cause-and-effect
- Repetitive & predictable — Simple text like “Who’s hiding behind the tree? Peek-a-flap!” encourages participation
- Bright, bold art — Kasia Nowowiejska’s illustrations are colorful, smiling, and non-scary — perfect for the youngest readers
- Sturdy construction — Thick pages and strong flaps survive teething, throwing, and enthusiastic opening/closing
- Short & satisfying — Reads in 3–5 minutes — ideal for quick storytimes or car-seat entertainment
Parent & Educator Notes
- Developmental benefits: Helps with object permanence, vocabulary (animal names, sounds), and joint attention
- Screen-free bonding — Great for lap time, encouraging caregiver-child interaction (“Where’s the baby monkey? Peek-a-boo!”)
- Gift appeal — Classic baby shower, first birthday, Easter basket, or “new sibling” gift
- No reading required — Caregivers can narrate their own words or make animal sounds
Minor Notes
- Not a “story” book with a plot — it’s a pure concept/activity book focused on discovery and animal names
- Flaps are durable but can eventually tear with very rough play (typical for board books)
In short, Zoo: Peek-a-Flap Board Book is a timeless, joyful choice for babies and toddlers who love animals and lifting flaps. It’s bright, sturdy, and endlessly replayable — the kind of book that gets requested “again!” every single time.
Highly recommended as a first zoo book, Easter basket filler, or anytime you want to introduce little ones to animal names and peek-a-boo fun.