Porcupining
A Prickly Love Story
By Lisa Wheeler
Illustrated by Janie Bynum

      Cushion is a lonely porcupine that lives in a petting zoo, as outrageous as that sounds. There were even signs outside his cage, "Do not touch," "Keep Out," and "No Petting," so of course, no one does pet or hug him.

      Cushion decides it is time to do something about finding the love of his life, so he sets off in search of a wife. He plays his banjo and serenades rabbits, a sow and some beavers with his sad song about "Porcupining for a wife." His songs are hilariously insensitive, calling the pig “fat,” and pointing out that the beaver has "bucky" teeth. Poor Cushion only meets with rejection until he meets up with another creature with quills....Barbara, the beautiful hedgehog.

      Wheeler tells this lively, funny story with rhymes and puns that will keep your little ones laughing out loud. Janie Bynum's bright and colorful illustrations are just right for this story. Be prepared to read this book out loud over and over, and share the fun.