Snyder, Laurel. Charlie and Mouse and Grumpy. Emily Hughes, Illus. Easy Reader. Charlie and Mouse Series; bk. 2. Chronicle, 10/2017. [48]pp. $14.99. 978-1-4521-3748-3. OUTSTANDING. GRADES PRE-2.
Two young Caucasian brothers enjoy a series of tame adventures with their presumed grandfather, in the old-fashioned style of the Frances series by Lillian Hoban. Four brief chapters feature the repetition so necessary for new readers, combined with graphite and Photoshop™ illustrations. The story has a timeless quality which may be attributed to the boys’ activities, which include building forts, drawing robots, and listening to good night songs. The endpapers include various small items included in the illustrations, encouraging kids to go back into the book to find each item. In a world of forgettable easy readers, Grumpy stands out. Review based on an ARC.
Beth Gousman, Montclair School