Book Review: Ooko

OOKO by Esme Shapiro tells the charming story of a fox seeking a friend.

After seeing people with their dogs, Ooko decides to find a human friend. However Ooko soon discovers that an animal friend might be more fun.

The simple, humorous text and engaging illustrations make this picture book appropriate for both young children as well as beginning readers.

Librarians will find this sweet story popular with young children and useful in read-aloud activities. Teachers will find the book a valuable tool for discussing friendship and individual differences.

To learn more about the author, go to http://esmeshapiro.com/.

Published by Tundra, an imprint of Random House on July 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Pax

PAX by Sara Pennypacker is a powerful animal fantasy exploring the journeys of a boy and his fox.

With his mother dead and his father going off to war, twelve-year-old Peter is forced to abandon his pet fox Pax and go live with his grandfather hundreds of miles away.

This gripping story is told in alternating chapters through the eyes of Peter and Pax as they try to survive in their new worlds and reunite with each other. Whether caring for his new companions or treasuring his toy soldier, the author is most successful when speaking through the eyes of Pax.

Librarians will find that this story of companionship, survival, and redemption is sure to capture the hearts of middle grade readers. While some youth may enjoy the fable-like, timeless quality, others may find this lack of specificity annoying.

From the flowing narrative to the simple illustrations, this heartbreaking tale has the makings of a classic.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.sarapennypacker.com/.

To learn more about the illustrator, go to http://jonklassen.tumblr.com/.

Published by Balzer and Bray, an imprint of Harper Collins on February 2, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.