Make Them Say Poo

Written by Stephen & illustrated by Rudi de Wet

Reviewed by Mia Macrossan

Stephen Minon won the Glendower Award for an Emerging Queensland writer for an adult novel and this is his debut picture book. He has teamed up with Rudi de Wet, an experienced graphic artist to create the perfect book for those who enjoy word play and scatalogical humour.

This clever and funny book begins Dear kind and trusting adult, please read this book aloud. You won’t find any rude words here. It attempts to instil confidence by saying this perfect little book, with good and proper sentences.. but do not be fooled, as the reader is tricked into saying POO page after page.

I never realised there are soo many words that contain those three letters – shampoo, poodles, spooky, spoon appear here but I am sure a gleeful and resourceful child will find others. It concludes with the promise (threat?) of a book that will make the reader say WEE, I can’t wait.

Written in rhyming verse with carefully spaced text to make you turn the page and boldly illustrated in strong bright colours, with the word POO always in lumpy brown this book in one long extended joke, an irreverent poke but one with a lesson about language and language use.

Parents and children are sometimes at odds about what words to use for some bodily functions. This delightful book pokes gentle fun at those who have qualms and encourages a more relaxed approach.

Recommended for age 3+.

Affirm Kids 2026

Stephen Minon

Rudi de Wet