Marco Polo Brave Explorer by Cynthia Lord, Stephanie Graegin
on October 4, 2022
Pages: 80
Genres: Animals
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

“Marco Polo Brave Explorer” is the second book in the “Book Buddies” series, featuring stuffed animals that are able to be checked out at the library and the adventures they go on after being borrowed. Written by Cynthia Lord and illustrated by Stephanie Graegin, the book follows Marco the stuffed mouse  as he becomes a book buddy and accompanies his borrower, Seth, on a sleep over. Seth is nervous about the sleep over and hopes brave Marco will help him be brave.

Themes of friendship and facing your fears will resonate with young readers. The illustrations are black and white, but are detailed and very cute and add to the story. Recommended for ages 6-9, this beginner chapter book is not a must-buy, but is a good addition to your early chapter book section.

Reviewed by Kate Radke, Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook, ME.