Hest, Amy. Billy & Rose: Just the Way They Are. Kady MacDonald Denton, Illus. Billy & Rose; bk. 2. Candlewick, 10/2023. 42pp. Reader. Trade $16.99. 978-1-5362-1420-8. GRADES 1–3. ADDITIONAL.
In this sequel to Billy & Rose: Forever Friends (2022), a sheep and a pig are best friends, even if they disagree at times. In four brief chapters, they discuss books, the rain, their hair, and cupcakes. The quiet stories are not action-packed but reflect the type of conversations friends have, and the book has just those two characters. Aimed at those who read books similar to Lobel’s Frog and Toad series, this seems suited to children who are almost ready to move into chapter books. The text is set down in short paragraphs, often featuring dialogue and some repetition, and the light watercolor artwork uses a cartoonish style that adds humor. Not particularly memorable or original, but serviceable.
Penny Peck—SJSU iSchool