Format: Early Reader

Fish and Sun

Fish and SunFish and Sun by Sergio Ruzzier
Published by HarperAlley on June 22, 2021
ISBN: 0063076640
Pages: 48
Genres: Animals
Format: Early Reader
Goodreads
four-stars

A simple early reader from the I Can Read series told in a comic-style with one full image per double-page spread. Little Fish is bored and cold. When he wanders to the surface, he meets Sun, who is bright and warm. The two play until, predictably for the reader, though not Fish, Sun sets. Luckily, Fish finds Sun again the next day and the two agree to play everyday. Ruzzier’s soft, warm watercolor illustrations pair with simple text to make this a sweet and enjoyable book. The book includes a note to parents before the text begins explaining how to read comics and their leveling parameters.

Reviewed by Jill O’Connor, Merrill Memorial Library, Yarmouth

four-stars

In the Desert

In the DesertNational Geographic Readers: In the Desert (Pre-Reader) by Michaela Weglinski
Published by National Geographic Kids on October 5, 2021
ISBN: 9781426338359
Pages: 24
Genres: Non-Fiction
Format: Early Reader
Goodreads
three-stars

Pre-Reader in the series “National Geographic Kids.” The lush colored photographs of animals typical of National Geographic books are the prominent feature of this book series. The controlled vocabulary is suitable for the more advanced emergent reader. Simplistic but reliable information.

Reviewed by Barb Rehmeyer, Liberty Library

three-stars

Splat the Cat; and the Obstacle Course

Splat the Cat; and the Obstacle CourseSplat the Cat and the Obstacle Course by Rob Scotton
Published by HarperCollins on May 4, 2021
ISBN: 9780062697165
Pages: 32
Genres: Adventure, Humor
Format: Early Reader
Goodreads
five-stars

What older brother wants to hang out with his little sister?   Readers may start with that question but their view of Flo is bound to change as her ballet skills become apparent on the obstacle course.  This early reader in the I Can Read series is sure to win the approval of pre and early readers.  The theme combined with the humor and illustrations makes this book a winner.  Scotton’s illustrations of the course and his facial expressions on the cats will delight all readers.

Primary school librarians and preschool – grade 1 teachers will want this book added to their library and classroom collections.   I Can Read book always make great holiday and birthday gifts.

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

 

five-stars

Bug Blonsky and His Swamp Scout Survival Guide

Bug Blonsky and His Swamp Scout Survival GuideBug Blonsky and His Swamp Scout Survival Guide by E.S. Redmond
Series: Bug Blonsky #2
Published by Candlewick Press on April 13, 2021
ISBN: 1536206768
Pages: 96
Genres: Adventure, Humor
Format: Early Reader
Goodreads
four-stars

Humor and adventure define this early chapter book for primary grade readers.  Bug and his scout troop are on a camping trip, one where he believes he will see Big Foot.  While other scouts receive more approved badges Bug has a of list of skills,  which in his mind should quality for badges.  Written with compassion for a young boy who is somewhat unique and true to himself, this book will find its way into the heart of many early readers both boys and girls.   The illustrations add to the humor and sometimes highlights the heroin’s distress.  Readers will be entertained, surprised by the plot change and are bound to enjoy the bathroom humor.

As the second in the Bug Blonsky series this book does stand on its own.  The characters are introduced without the need of background information from the first title.  Librarians in primary schools will want both the first and second book in the series.  Public libraries who collect early chapter books should add this series to their shelves.

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

four-stars

The book no one wants to read

The book no one wants to readThe Book No One Wants to Read by Beth Bacon
Published by HarperCollins on June 15, 2021
ISBN: 006296254X
Pages: 176
Genres: Humor
Format: Early Reader
Goodreads
three-stars

This is the follow-up to Bacon’s I Hate Reading, and it follows the same format. The book is written as if the book itself is having a conversation with the reader. It is full of humor and fun activities to keep young readers engaged. Each page asks the reader to do something to or with the book — complete a maze, wink, make silly faces, and more. This reviewer’s 6-yr old new reader found the entire thing amusing and read the entire 176 page book in one sitting. The only criticism is that some of the humor will go over the heads of young readers and the concept of having a conversation with the book can be a little confusing. Recommended for reluctant readers and new readers who enjoy some humor in their books.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME

three-stars