Ivy Lost and Found

 

Ivy Lost and Found

by Cynthia Lord

Ivy was Anne the librarian's doll when she was a young girl. But now she has moved to Anne's library to be its newest Book Buddy--a toy that can be checked out just like a book. Ivy isn't sure she wants to be borrowed, though. She'd rather go back to just being Anne's favorite toy. Fern, a child who visits the library with her stepfamily, also wishes things could go back to the way they were, when Fern had her dad all to herself. When Fern takes Ivy home, an unexpected outdoor adventure helps both of them find confidence and belonging in their changing worlds. This heartwarming story by Cynthia Lord, with a classic feel and gentle illustrations by Stephanie Graegin, is the first in a chapter-book series that pairs friendly toys with child characters who need them.

Megabat

Megabat

By Anna Humphrey
Illustrated by Kass Reich

Daniel is feeling sad after moving to a new house in a new town and he misses his friends in Toronto.  When he hears weird noises in his attic bedroom, he is a bit freaked out.  Then he realizes that the noises are coming from a bat – Megabat –  and Daniel doesn’t really know what to do.  Megabat, it seems, is lost and also misses his friends from the land of Papaya Premium.  In fact, Megabat weeps so much that he creates a large puddle on the bedroom floor – Daniel’s parents even think the roof is leaking!

The crying settles down once Daniel and Megabat get to know each other.  Daniel deduces that Megabat is actually from Borneo and devises a plan to get him back there.  Little does he know that he and Megabat will actually become good friends.

Daniel begins carrying Megabat in his pocket.  He gives him his fill of fruits and juices, and they sit around watching Star Wars together.  Megabat even begins brandishing a juice box straw like a lightsaber.

Megabat says adorable things like, “It is being an honor to meeting yours.” (p.69) He gets very excited over “smoosh fruits”, a.k.a. jelly rolls. (p. 68) He also seems to be falling in love with a pigeon called Birdgirl.  Nevertheless, Daniel knows he needs to do his best to get Megabat home.  With the help of his new neighbour and friend, Talia, Daniel hopes he can complete his mission.

Megabat is perfect for young readers who still need a few pictures in their chapter books.  Highly recommended!

 

Harold & Hog Pretend for Real!

Harold & Hog Pretend for Real!

By Dan Santat

Harold the elephant and Hog are best friends.  They can’t wait to pretend to be Elephant and Piggie!  But Harold is too carefree to be Gerald, and Hog is to careful to be Piggie.  What will they do?  When they suddenly get the idea to switch roles, they start to feel like the real Elephant and Piggie!

From the Elephant & Piggie Like Reading series, this book is perfect for brand new readers!

Bear Country: Bearly A Misadventure

Bear Country: Bearly A Misadventure

By Doreen Cronin

That crazy Chicken Squad is back with another mystery to solve.  

This time, their caretaker, Barbara, is missing!  She hasn’t kept to her usual routine, and now she’s not home.  The Chicken Squad soon discovers that young Anna McClanahanahan’s hamster is missing too.  Then they get reports of a headless bear and strange noises coming from town.

The Chicken Squad enlists some of its animal friends for help. They must get to town to find out what’s going on!  Find out how the Chicken Squad brings the whole town to a screeching halt in this fun-filled adventure!