CBR15Passport Other country (Simon & Chester author from British Columbia)
Two cute stories for the at least five and up crowd found their way to my reading table the other day. I was looking for something quick, and they seem to fit the bill. The first was Stick and Stone Explore and More. This book by Beth Ferry is at least the second in a series. The adult reader should be fine picking it up but do find the introduction story for the kiddos! Mostly because it is nice to read in order, but they are going to want all they can on these two unusual besties. And the second is Simon and Chester V02 Super Sleepover. Cale Atkinson made a story about besties that shows you that even in the afterlife, you need your best friend helping.
Our heroes Stick and Stone are, well a stick and a stone. They go on some adventures with each other, maybe not always courageously, but with heart! And they run into some new friends, learn a lot of new things (marshmallows are sticky for one) and realize, that they will always be friends. Kristen Cella’s illustrations are sweet, funny, and simple, but pack a fun punch. You see how there are hidden gems on the page, but also why some mishaps happen. Personalities shine through (one prickly, persnickety pinecone for one) and how a little spunk can get you through the hardest problems.
And if Monster Inc meet Calvin and Hobbes, you would have Simon and Chester. One is ready for the party of a (after) lifetime and the other is not so sure. Though when Simon (ghost) needs some encouragement and help to study for his Spooky Inspection coming up, Chester is ready to lend a hand. And when Simon gets invited to his first sleepover, Simon is the one he turns to for advice (though he is not sure of the puffy sleeved shirt idea). Overall, this is a funny and sweet story. However, there is some bullying that might be a bit for the sensitive reader. However, it works to help the story and explain some of Chester’s anxiety.
Both stories are good for the more solid reader (first to young third grade) but could be a read aloud (one-on-one) as you can read a chapter or two at a time.
And this should complete Passport 2
