First Words

I was sitting in the ER waiting room, when I saw this book in a basket full of children toys.

Usborne First Words - People.

Now, kiddie books aren't usually my cup of tea, but this one somehow stuck at my curiosity cord (condolences to the cat).

I must say, it was one of the most entertaining books I've picked up in a while. Couldn't stop laughing. The astronaut looked like a guy in a straight jacket escaping from the looney bin with a crash helmet in hand. The vet was holding a syringe, strangling a cat, and had a big cheeky smile on his face. The mermaid looked like a blonde cheerleeder with deformed legs and .. wait.. is a mermaid even a person??

Of course, this page took the cake!

Teacher, dentist, vet, doctor, ...

... SEXISM!

Yeah, the book was filled will occupational gender-stereotypes. Brainwashing kids and their gullible minds. Tsk Tsk.

I immediately pictured a dumbfounded parent thinking of something smart to say when his/her child comes up with the book and asks "Mommy/Daddy, what's this??".

I quickly scanned the room. Drats. No young restless kid in sight. There goes my plan of strategically planting the book nearby.

p.s. by the way, about the ER room. No, I did not poison myself with some experimental ingredient. A friend sprained an ankle while attempting a flying smash during our weekly badminton game.