In this second installment of the Big Idea Gang series, the PTA has a surplus of money (wouldn’t that be nice!), and the gang has noticed a new kid spending most of every recess alone. They decide to convince the school to install a buddy bench so kids don’t have to feel alone at recess, but the PTA has already decided to allocate the money to the library. Through learning about forming an argument and persuasion, the kids and the school find a solution that works for everyone.

This story in this book is an improvement over the first book in this series, but there is still some troubling language that is hard to overlook. Specifically, there are a couple instances of what feel like racial stereotyping. The overall story is a good one, and the concept and message behind it are important and relevant. This book is best for one-on-one sharing with 2nd-4th graders. It would also be appropriate for new independent readers.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta

In this first installment of the Big Idea Gang series, four third-grade friends have an idea — their elementary school needs a new mascot. The current mascot, an armadillo, isn’t exciting or ferocious enough. They approach the principal, and it’s decided the school will vote — either Arnold the armadillo will stay, or the school will adopt a new mascot, Drake the Dragon.

This series is aimed at 2nd-3rd graders, but some of the language, and the tone of the interactions between the characters seems a bit older than that target age range. The students do (and hence, the reader will) learn about forming an argument and preparing for public speaking. This book could be read aloud to a new reader, or it would be great for a reader ready to tackle some harder words and a little bit longer chapter book. A second purchase for libraries looking to expand their early chapter book sections.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta