44-45 Two Jonathan Fenske Books

44. Barnacle is Bored. Jonathan Fenske. 2016. Scholastic. 40 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: I am bored. Bored. Bored. BORED. Every day is the same. The tide comes IN. I am wet and cold. The tide goes OUT. I am dry and hot.

Premise/plot: Barnacle is BORED. Barnacle is full of complaints. Nothing suits. Until...Barnacle realizes something important about life...

My thoughts: I liked this one. I did. I may not have loved, loved, loved it. But I solidly liked it. It is an ocean-themed book about attitude and perspective, about gratitude. Barnacle is not grateful...at all. But by the end of the story, something has changed...for the better.

The first time I read this one, I wasn't overly impressed with the illustrations. They didn't do much for me. Dare I say they bored me?! But after the second or third time around I had come to appreciate them. I found the illustrations could be quite expressive. I love the grinning look of relief on Barnacle when he's NOT eaten.

I appreciate the fact that this is a book that allows for a lot of expression in the reading. I think it's a great choice to share with little ones. They may just ask for it again and again and again and again. Especially if you add in some effects!

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 9 out of 10

45. Plankton is Pushy. Jonathan Fenske. 2017. Scholastic. 40 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: Why, hello, Mister Mussel! I said, "HELLO, MISTER MUSSEL!" Well, that is just RUDE! Let me tell you how this works.

Premise/plot: When Plankton greets "Mister Mussel" and doesn't get a response, well, Plankton gets PUSHY. Also frustrated, exasperated, and sarcastic. Will Mister Mussel open his mouth and speak? Will Plankton really want him to when all is said and done?

My thoughts: For readers--young and old--who like picture books with twist-endings, this is a fun treat. I'd also recommend it to anyone who read and loved Barnacle is Bored. I think if you enjoyed the first book, you'll probably like this one as well. I haven't quite figured out how to voice Plankton, but, I'm going to guess that it can be done and done well. (Maybe not by me...but we'll see. Barnacle is Bored is one of my favorite read alouds.)

Text: 4 out of 5
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10

© 2026 Becky Laney of Young Readers

4. Mustache Baby

 

4. Mustache Baby. Bridget Heos. 2016. HMH. 36 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: When Baby Billy was born, his family noticed something odd: He had a mustache.

Premise/plot: His parents anxiously wait to see if Baby Billy's mustache will turn out to be a "good-guy" mustache or a "bad guy" mustache. Readers see "Baby Billy" through his toddler years. And in fact, while most of the time his mustache is a good-guy mustache, there are SOME days when it is in fact, quite the opposite. "But a funny thing happened. As Billy got bigger...his mustache grew and curled up at the ends."

My favorite scene is probably when he robs a train: "A train robber so heartless that he even stole the tracks." The expression on his face is PRICELESS.

My thoughts: I loved this one. I wished I'd known about it when it first came out in 2013. I don't know how I missed such a great book. It is now available in board book format.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 5 out of 5
Total: 10 out of 10

 

 

© 2025 Becky Laney of Young Readers

29. You Are Not a Cat

You Are Not a Cat. Sharon G. Flake. 2016/2024. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: I am a cat. Meow. You are not a cat. You are a duck. Quack, quack.

Premise/plot: A cat and a duck quibble and fuss. Duck is definitely getting on Cat's last nerve. Duck insists that *today* he is a cat. Yesterday Duck was something else. Tomorrow Duck may be something else. But Duck is a cat...today...and insists on following Cat around.

My thoughts: Cat definitely had decided opinions on what is "regular." Cats meow. Ducks quack. End of story. Cats cannot be ducks. Ducks cannot be cats. And Cat doesn't have time for nonsense. Perhaps if Duck wasn't so insistent at being glued to his side. If Duck had gone away, far, far, away then would Cat have cared if this Duck wanted to meow? Maybe. Maybe not.

 I liked this one okay. It was silly. It had humor. It's an early reader with speech bubbles.

 

© 2024 Becky Laney of Young Readers

28. Barnacle is Bored

Barnacle is Bored. Jonathan Fenske. 2016. Scholastic. 40 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: I am bored. Bored. Bored. BORED. Every day is the same. The tide comes IN. I am wet and cold. The tide goes OUT. I am dry and hot. 

Premise/plot: Barnacle is BORED. Barnacle is full of complaints. Nothing suits. Until...Barnacle realizes something important about life...

My thoughts: I liked this one. I did. I may not have loved, loved, loved it. But I solidly liked it. It is an ocean-themed book about attitude and perspective, about gratitude. Barnacle is not grateful...at all. But by the end of the story, something has changed...for the better.

The first time I read this one, I wasn't overly impressed with the illustrations. They didn't do much for me. Dare I say they bored me?! But after the second or third time around I had come to appreciate them. I found the illustrations could be quite expressive. I love the grinning look of relief on Barnacle when he's NOT eaten.

I appreciate the fact that this is a book that allows for a lot of expression in the reading. I think it's a great choice to share with little ones. They may just ask for it again and again and again and again.

ETA: Barnacle is Bored is one of my FAVORITE books to read aloud. I think it allows for great expression. I adore this one. 

© 2024 Becky Laney of Young Readers

235-239. Five Fox Books on Parade

235. Fox and the Jumping Contest. Corey R. Tabor. 2016. 32 pages. [Source: Library] [picture book]

First sentence:  The jumping contest was only a few days away, and Fox was determined to win first prize. He would put the trophy right there, just above the fireplace. 

Premise/plot: Fox is a schemer. He is scheming how to "win" the jumping contest. The scheme, of course, involves cheating. The cover clearly shows *how* he plans to cheat. How will his friends respond to his schemes?

My thoughts: I believe this is the first book starring Fox. It wasn't my first to read, however, but it was the first published. Having gotten to know this character--and the characters of his many friends--I can say I enjoyed this one. I'm not sure how I would have felt without some attachment already to Fox (and friends).

 236. Fox and the Bike Ride. Corey R. Tabor. 2017. 32 pages. [Source: Library] [picture book]

First sentence: It was the morning of the bike ride--the Annual Tour de Tip-Top, Slow-and-Steady,There-and-Back bike ride (plus snacks). The other animals were very excited. Fox was not. 

Premise/plot: Fox is a schemer. This time he is scheming how to add ACTION and action-adventure and danger-action-adventure, etc., to the annual bike ride. His friends may like things boring, regular, or traditional. But Fox wants more. Can he get all the action he craves? Will his friends actually like it?

My thoughts: Fox is sneaky. I enjoyed this one. It is packed with silliness and action. I can imagine this would make a hilarious read aloud if you've got some performer in you. I definitely enjoyed this one more than Fox and the Jumping Contest.

237. Fox is Late (I Can Read) Corey R. Tabor. 2018. 32 pages. [Source: Library] [early reader]

First sentence: Fox is late. Fox is late for lunch.

Premise/plot: Fox is late for lunch....but with a little help from a skateboard...Fox might make up his time after all. 

My thoughts: This one has a LOT of repetition which can be very fun. Go, Fox, Go! It was silly and playful. I loved seeing the expressions on all of the faces. His friends are certainly puzzled and possibly irritated by his latest antics. 

238. Fox the Tiger. Corey R. Tabor. 2018. 32 pages. [Source: Library] [early reader]

First sentence: "I wish I were a tiger," says Fox. "Tigers are big. Tigers are fast. Tigers are sneaky. Tigers are the best." Fox has an idea.

Premise/plot: Fox the Tiger won the Theodore Seuss Geisel Award for 2019. In this I Can Read early reader, Fox has an IDEA that becomes contagious. He wants to be a tiger...so he paints on some stripes. He then goes out to face the world as a tiger...or does he? Will his paint fool anyone?

My thoughts: I really enjoyed this one. It was FUN. I am glad that Fox's idea is so contagious. I loved seeing what would happen next. (For example, the turtle decides to become a RACE CAR and paints the number 4 on his shell.) I loved the text and story. I loved the illustrations. I loved the humor--and the heart.  

239. Fox at Night. Corey R. Tabor. 2021. 32 pages. [Source: Library] [early reader]

First sentence: It is night, and Fox is scared. "The night is full of monsters," says Fox. Fox looks for monsters.

Premise/plot: Will Fox find monsters when he looks for them? Or will he find new friends?

My thoughts: This one does not feature the usual cast of characters in the Fox books. (Likely they are all asleep.) It was cute and fun. I enjoyed the funny twist ending.

© 2023 Becky Laney of Young Readers

152. Board book: The Wheels on the Tuk Tuk

Board book: The Wheels on the Tuk Tuk. Kabir Sehgal and Surishtha. Illustrated by Jess Golden. 2016/2023. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Tuk tuk wheels go
round and round,
round and round,
round and round.
Tuk tuk wheels go
round and round,
all through the town.

Premise/plot: A spin on the classic song "The Wheels on the Bus" set in India. There is an author's note and glossary. The first board book edition was published in 2023. 

My thoughts: I enjoyed this board book. I liked this 'spin' on the original song. I thought the verses were creative.

 

© 2023 Becky Laney of Young Readers

144. Fenway and Hattie

Fenway and Hattie. Victoria J. Coe. 2016. [February] 176 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: As soon as we get off the elevator, I know something is wrong. Our apartment has no mat in front. The muddy boots and fake flowers are gone. The doorway looks empty. Abandoned. Like nobody lives here. Who took our stuff? Intruders? Strangers? Squirrels?!

Premise/plot: Fenway and Hattie is animal fantasy. The whole book is narrated by the dog, Fenway. He lives with Fetch Man, Food Lady, and Hattie. The family moves from the city to the suburbs which greatly confuses him--at least at first. (He thinks, for example, that his yard is a "dog park.") Fenway's biggest worry is that Hattie is forgetting him; She is his world, but her interests are ever expanding. (She loves, loves, loves her new treehouse, for example, and she's also become interested in baseball, I believe.) Will these two stay best, best, best friends?

My thoughts: I found this one an enjoyable and quick read. This one was a recommendation from my sister. So glad I read it. I look forward to reading more in the series.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

99. Inspector Flytrap: The President's Mane is Missing

Inspector Flytrap: The President's Mane is Missing. (Inspector Flytrap #2) Tom Angleberger. Illustrated by Cece Bell. 2016. 112 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: My phone rang.“Hello,” I said. “Flytrap Detective Agency.”A slow voice started asking me questions. “Is this . . . Mr. Flytrap?” “My name,” I answered, “is INSPECTOR Flytrap. I am a detective. Do you have a THRILLING mystery for me to solve?”

Premise/plot: Inspector Flytrap and Nina the Goat are back for their second adventure in Angleberger's wonderfully wacky world. President Horse G. Horse is revealing a new statue of great importance...at least in his eyes...a giant statue of himself....but after Nina's unfortunate snacking...the town finds itself in great danger. Can Inspector Flytrap SOLVE the case as to why a GIANT VENUS FLY is tormenting the town???

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I did. It was fun. It was wacky, silly, whimsical, over the top. I love Nina the Goat. She's a scene stealer for sure. I do recommend this series. But you might want to read the Inspector Flytrap series first. If you've read the other books set in this universe, well, these first entries might be less satisfying. [Didi Dodo has three books and DJ Funkyfoot has three books.]

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

98. Wish

Wish. Barbara O'Connor. 2016. FSG. 240 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: I looked down at the paper on my desk. The "getting to know you" paper.

Premise/plot: Charlie Reese is a wish-maker. She's made the same wish--in hundreds of ways--for at least the past year. Her dad is in jail; her mom is checked out from reality; her oldest sister is staying with a friend. Charlie? She's moved to Colby to stay with an aunt and uncle she's never met. She's been assigned a backpack buddy named Howard, an easygoing friend with a large family. Adjusting to her new life will take time and courage, will Charlie's wish come true?

My thoughts: I want more Howard. I love him. I do. Maybe it's silly to get so attached to a fictional character, but seriously a Howard in real life would be a girl's dream come true. I love the book. I love the characters. Bertha and Gus, Howard, Wishbone, the whole Odom family. This is a middle grade novel with heart! No wonder the author is getting fan letters from kids saying that she's the best author ever!  

I first read this one in 2017. It was love. I reread it for the first time in 2022. I think I love it even more the second time around. This book is one of my absolute favorites.

Quotes:

I looked down at the paper on my desk.
The “Getting to Know You” paper.
At the top, Mrs. Willibey had written “Charlemagne Reese.”
I put a big X over Charlemagne and wrote “Charlie.”
My name is Charlie. Charlemagne is a dumb name for a girl and I have told my mama that about a gazillion times.

You are a blessing in this house, Charlie,” she said.
A blessing?
She should’ve called me mean and hateful and dumb and sorry, but she called me a blessing.
Then Gus stood up and said the perfect Gus thing.
“Let’s have some of that blackberry cobbler before supper.”

I have a list of all the ways there are to make a wish, like seeing a white horse or blowing a dandelion. Looking at a clock at exactly 11:11 is on my list. I’d learned that from some old man who owned the bait and tackle shop out by the lake where Scrappy and I used to go fishing. Now that I’d missed 11:11, I was going to have to find another way to get in my wish for the day. I hadn’t missed one single day of making my wish since the end of fourth grade, so I sure didn’t want to miss one now.

“I’ve made a wish every single day since fourth grade,” I said.
Howard bugged his eyes out at me. “You must want a lot of stuff.”
I shook my head. “No, just one thing,” I said. “I always wish for the same thing. Every single time.”
The minute I said that, I regretted it. I knew what he was going to say next and sure enough, he did.

Well, dang! I never would’ve guessed that! You’d think that a redheaded boy with glasses who was named Howard and had an up-down walk would have a lot more to wish for than being friends with me. But I admit I felt a smile on my face and hope in my heart, ’cause maybe wishes really do come true. Maybe some wishes just take longer than others.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

75. Inspector Flytrap

Inspector Flytrap (Inspector Flytrap #1) Tom Angleberger. Illustrated by Cece Bell. 2016. 112 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: My phone rang. "Hello," I said. "Flytrap Detective Agency." A slow voice started asking me questions. "Is this Mr. Flytrap?" "My name, I answered, "is Inspector Flytrap. I am a detective." 

Premise/plot: Inspector Flytrap and his handy-not-so-handy assistant Nina (who's a goat) solve a handful of 'big deal' mysteries in Tom Angleberger's Inspector Flytrap. It is the first in a series. As these two are solving one mystery after another after another, hilarity ensues. 

My thoughts: I loved this one. I am late to the party, I admit. Only just now discovering a series that started in 2016. But late or not, I am here for it. I first discovered Angleberger's WACKY, WACKY, whimsical world with his DJ Funkyfoot series. Three series are interconnected--Inspector Flytrap, Didi Dodo, and DJ Funkyfoot--and take place in this world. 

All of the series are illustrated chapter books or early chapter books. 

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

48. The Poet's Dog

The Poet's Dog. Patricia MacLachlan. 2016. 112 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: I found the boy at dusk. The blizzard was fierce, and it would soon be dark. 

Premise/plot: The Poet's Dog is told from the point of view of a dog named Teddy. One winter's day, Teddy happens upon two children in great need. There's a blizzard and they need saving. Their mom has left them (and the car) to go off in search of help. Teddy takes the children to safety--to his own cabin. Teddy was the poet's dog. And Sylvan, the poet, raised him well. Teddy is "magical" if you will. He and the children can understand one another perfectly, of course. Because if you are going to be rescued by a dog, it must needs be a magical one that can talk. As they spend several days and nights together, a new family is formed. Teddy begins to let go of some of his grief at Sylvan's death. 

My thoughts: I liked this one well enough. It may not be a story that I feel the need to come back to again and again. But it was a compelling story. As the blizzard continues over the course of days, Teddy reflects on his past, his present, and his potential future. The children come to love the dog that saved them. (Of course they do!) They begin to hope that Teddy will become their forever-and-ever dog. Teddy slowly but surely begins to hope for the same. But it's more difficult for Teddy because he's so loyal to Sylvan's memory. 

Quote: Being alone confuses the truth about time.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

145. Narwhal Unicorn of the Sea

Narwhal Unicorn of the Sea (Narwhal and Jelly #1) Ben Clanton. 2016. 64 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: One day when Narwhal was out for a swim, he found himself in new waters.

Premise/plot: Narwhal and Jelly is a graphic novel series for younger readers. In this first book, our two protagonists meet--Narwhal and Jelly. (Jelly is a jellyfish. Narwhal is a narwhal.) These two don't know quite what to make of each other--at first. Is Jelly imagining Narwhal? Is Narwhal imagining Jelly? Is Jelly imagining Narwhal imagining him? These two become fast friends and have time for a few adventures together. In one adventure, Narwhal sets out to "find" his pod. It's really a pod of his own making--he passes out horns like they were candy. Everyone wants in his pod! (Including Jelly). Another adventure has the two "reading" a blank book and imagining the story within.

My thoughts: The book was simple, silly, fun. I can see why kids would enjoy this. I liked it. I would definitely be interested in reading more of this series as time allows.

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

116. Snail and Worm

Snail and Worm: Three Stories About Two Friends. Tina Kugler. 2016. 32 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: Hello! Want to play? Let's play! TAG! You are it! Can you catch me? No! No! No!

Premise/plot: This early reader features three stories starring Snail and Worm. "Meet My Friend," the first story has Snail and Worm meeting each other and becoming playmates and friends. "Snail's Adventure," has snail and worm "climbing" a flower and "seeing" the world from a new perspective. "Meet My Pet," the third story, the two are discussing Worm's missing pet. This story is dependent on the illustrations--that's where the humor comes in!

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one! I did. I don't necessarily love the way these two look--the illustrations aren't quite my thing. But the text, the text, works well--really well. By the end of the book, I was delighted with this relationship.

 

© 2020 Becky Laney of Young Readers

63. Sophie Quire and the Last Storyguard

Sophie Quire and the Last Storyguard. Jonathan Auxier. 2016. Harry N. Abrams. 464 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: It has often been said that one should never judge a book by its cover. As any serious reader can tell you, this is terrible advice.

Premise/plot: Peter Nimble has come to Bustleburgh in search of the Bookmender. Her name, he learns, is Sophie Quire, and she has grown up in a bookshop. Her mother was a world-famous bookmender. Sophie has come into the trade mostly by chance and love. Peter comes with a book. Not any book but The Book of Who! It is one of four magical books. Each one is protected by a different Storyguard. The book chooses Sophie to be its storyguard, and the LAST storyguard whatever that means! An adventure awaits her, Peter, and Sir Tode...and a treat awaits readers!

My thoughts: I loved, loved, loved this one so much. I loved getting reacquainted with Peter and Sir Tode. But I really loved getting to meet Sophie. This one had me hooked from the beginning. Not just the characterization but the quality of the writing as well. The story is intense and exciting! This book made me FEEL things. Like when her dad threw the book into the fire! Definitely one I'd recommend no matter your age!

Quotes:

If one hopes to live in a world of wonders, he had better locate himself in a place where wondrous stories abound (147).

Stories are more than the sum of their words (150).

Stories lived inside those who read them (439).

Magic cannot be removed from the world, because the world--every speck of it--is magical. It is simply a matter of whether or not we can see it (439).

© 2020 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Into the Wild

Into the Wild. (Chicken Squad #3) Doreen Cronin. Illustrated by Stephen Gilpin. 2016. 112 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence:  "I got a bad feeling about that new box over there," said Sugar.

Premise/plot: Dirt (Peep), Sugar (Little Boo), Poppy (Poppy), and Sweetie (Sweet Coconut Louise) ARE the chicken squad. Supposedly these chicks are DETECTIVES who solve cases. In this one no one has come to them asking for help. Barbara--their owner--has built a box in her backyard. It is CONFUSING the chicks--greatly. Who is in the box?

My thoughts: This is the third book in the Chicken Squad series. In this one, the four chicks try to piece together the mystery of WHO is in the BOX in the backyard. Is it a real case since no one has come to ask them for help? Since the chicks are just curious themselves? This early reader series is only a mystery series in the very lightest of terms. The characterization has just as much substance as the mysteries--that is it's almost nonexistent. But it's a quick read with a few laughs.

© 2019 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Super Rawr

Super Rawr! Todd H. Doodler. 2016. Scholastic. 40 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: It is career day in my classroom, and it is my turn to speak. I am wearing my superhero cape and belt.

Premise/plot: A dinosaur spends the day as Super Rawr, but is thankful to just be a dinosaur as well at the end of the day.

My thoughts: If your little preschooler loves, loves, loves dinosaurs, then Super Rawr! might become a favorite after you've shared it. It is a silly book; its silliness is its strength. Super Rawr can jump over tall buildings--the tall buildings are made of blocks. Super Rawr is great at hiding--if by "hiding" you mean hiding in plain sight behind a house plant.

Text: 3 out of 5
Illustrations: 3 out of 5
Total: 6 out of 10

© 2019 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Board book: That's Me Loving You

That's Me Loving You. Amy Krouse Rosenthal. Illustrated by Teagan White. 2018. [December] Random House. 28 pages. [Source: Review Copy]

First Sentence:

Wherever you are,
Wherever you go,
Always remember
And always know...
That shimmering star?
That's me winking at you.

Premise/plot: This book is openly and unashamedly sentimental. But don't discount it because it's about LOVE. A parent loving their child fiercely. Picture books about love are everywhere. That's true enough. But this one has its quirky humor too: "That persistent mosquito? That's me bugging you."

My thoughts: I really love this one. It was first published as a picture book in 2016. I had long been a fan of her books. This was her last, I believe. It was written after her diagnosis of cancer--ovarian cancer. It was published three months before her death. It is dedicated to her three children. It's a lovely, lovely--poetic message worth treasuring.  Children don't have to know the back story for this one. It is a joyful, reassuring book about the endurance of love.

NY Times article, "You May Want To Marry My Husband..." by Amy Krouse Rosenthal

© 2018 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Excellent Ed

Excellent Ed. Stacy McAnulty. Illustrated by Julia Sarcone-Roach. 2016. Random House. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: All the Ellis children were excellent at something. Except Ed. And all the Ellis children were allowed to eat at the table, and ride in the van, and use the indoor bathroom. Except Ed.

Premise/plot: This picture book stars a dog named Ed. Ed is puzzled by a few things. Why isn't he allowed to eat at the table? Why isn't he allowed to ride in the van? Why isn't he allowed to use the indoor bathroom? Why is he the ONLY Ellis child excluded from family activities? Perhaps he's not EXCELLENT enough to fit in with such an awesome family? What is he good at anyway?!

My thoughts: I really enjoyed this one. It was fun. It was funny. Ed is a playful, silly narrator. I enjoyed getting to know him.

Text: 4 out of 5
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10



© 2018 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Oops, Pounce, Quick, Run!

Oops, Pounce, Quick, Run! An Alphabet Caper. Mike Twohy. 2016. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence:

Aleep
Ball
Catch
Dog
Eye
Feet
Grrrr
Help!
I'll chase!
Jump
Kitchen
Living Room

Premise/plot: Oops, Pounce, Quick, Run! is an alphabet caper by Mike Twohy. Without using a single complete sentence, Twohy packs adventure and drama into his story. It stars a dog and a mouse.

My thoughts: I really enjoyed Stop, Go, Yes, No! A Story Of Opposites. So I decided to read the first book, Oops, Pounce, Quick, Run! Both books star this lovable dog. I really LOVED both books. They are great fun. They are good for pre-readers, early readers, and readers of all ages.

Text: 5 out of 5
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 9 out of 10


© 2018 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Board book: Cat Nap

Board book: Cat Nap. Toni Yuly. 2016/2017. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: The clock says noon. It's time to rest. Cat is sleepy. He wants to nap. Kitten is curious. She wants to play...

Premise/plot: Will Cat ever get to take a nap?! Kitten suggests playing hide and seek. Cat is hoping that he'll sneak in a nap while Kitten seeks him. But. Kitten is good at the game. And Cat, well, Cat just can't trick Kitten. Can Kitten trick Cat?!

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. Cat and Kitten aren't the only ones playing hide and seek. Can you spot who else is playing?! (Hint: it's SMALL). I thought the book was cute.

Text: 4 out of 5
Illustrations: 4 out of 5
Total: 8 out of 10

© 2018 Becky Laney of Young Readers