Hallbeck, Chris. Pebble and Wren. Chris Hallbeck, Illus. HarperCollins / Clarion, 04/2023. 240pp. Graphic. Trade $24.99. 978-0-3585-4129-5. Paper $13.99. 978-0-3585-4128-8. GRADES 3–6. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
There comes a time in every young monster’s life when they have to leave their cave in the forest and move under a child’s bed in a regular house where they can eat new foods, perfect their scare tactics, and discover their secret skills and abilities. Pebble enjoys living with Wren and her two dads, but no matter how hard he tries, Pebble can’t seem to discover his special skill, which means he will have to go back to life in the cave. Told in brightly illustrated, four-panel comics, this is a silly and sweet story of friendship and self-discovery. Wren is white with straight dark hair, one of her dads is white with dark hair, and the other is dark-skinned and bald. Pebble is yellow and furry with cute horns.
Rachael Reiley—Hillcrest K-8 Oakland University School District