Jo Jo Makoons: The Used-to-Be Best Friend by Dawn Quigley, Tara Audibert
Series: JoJo #1
Published by Heartdrum on May 11, 2021
ISBN: 0063015374
Pages: 80
Genres: Humor, Realistic Fiction
Format: Fiction, Early Reader
Goodreads

Jo Jo Makoons introduces herself as a seven year-old first grader whose best friend is her cat, Mimi.  This early reader is the first in a new series about an indigenous Ojibwe girl who lives on a reservation.  Though not a fan of school JoJo has a great sense of humor which adds levity to the storyline.   Readers learn words, pronunciations and some Ojibwe culture while enjoying this tantalizing sixty-two-page charmer.  Eight short chapters combined with many humorous illustrations tell the story of a girl who needs more school relationships.  The after pages contain a glossary, author’s note, a letter to readers, and a short bio of the author.

Primary school libraries and all public libraries should include this first book in their collection.   Librarians will want to add other titles in the series as they are published.  JoJo Makoons: The Used-To-Be Best Friend is an excellent example of the type of diverse materials that belong in all our libraries and classrooms.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME

Recommend for Cream of the Crop