DiCamillo, Kate. Orris and Timble: The Beginning. Carmen Mok, Illus. Orris and Timble; bk. 1. Candlewick, 04/2024. 80pp. Reader. Trade $16.99. 978-1-53622-279-1. GRADES Kindergarten–3. OUTSTANDING.
Orris and Timble is an unusual early reader. The story and the illustrations are somewhat dark and complex. The vocabulary is likely to be challenging for young readers, but the storytelling is poetic and many words and phrases repeat as the story unfolds. Orris is a rat living alone in an old abandoned barn and Timble is a young owl who gets caught in a trap in the barn. As Timble calls out for rescue, Orris must decide if it would be “the good and noble choice” to save an owl who is his natural enemy. Orris looks more like a stuffed animal than a real rat, but the deep, rich color palette suits a story about befriending someone who may be dangerous. The storytelling ultimately helps the owl and rat connect with each other and elevates it above other beginning readers.
Rachael Reiley—Hillcrest Elementary K–8 / Oakland Unified School District