Many times, a sequel does not live up to the first one. And tht is true in movies and books. However, these sequels are good follow ups and stand alone. And while I have not read the prequel to Ahmet Zappa’s reviewed book, I am sure it is similar and does justice to it. Also, both of these books focus on moms and with Mothers Day coming up, you might want to give them a look-see (though the Busy Betty and the Circus Surprises is not due until October 2023, so maybe for the holidays).
Busy Betty & the Circus Surprise is a follow up to Busy Betty by Reese Witherspoon. And if you like Busy Betty, well you will like this. And if you like the circus, kids using their imaginations and crazy antics, you will like Busy Betty & the Circus Surprise, because it has all of that. The art of Xindi Yan is bright, bold and minimalistic in the details, but we see all we need. The illustrations support the text which follows Betty as she wants to make the best birthday gift ever for her mom, a circus. And in the wild time that follows is a mixture of Madeline, Eloise, Pippi Longstocking and other female protagonists. There are not too many surprises in the actual story (or at least for the adult), but there are a few twists. Good for most ages, this companion will work well in your personal library.
Because I’m Your Mom by Ahmet Zappa and illustrated by Dan Santat is a follow up to Because I’m Your Dad. Zappa wrote Dad to honor his own father Frank Zappa and the childhood he had; plus was a gift to his own daughter. With Mom we follow a monster mom as she and their monster child go all over and do all things. It is silly and goofy, and maybe not the most realistic events and thoughts are happening, but it is a sweet sentiment. Santat is known for a bolder, fun style with illustrations, and this does not disappoint. The colors are strong, the art is comfortable but keeps the energy up.
