Charlie & Mouse & Grumpy (Charlie & Mouse #2)
by Laurel Snyder; Illustrated by Emily Hughes
Chronicle Books (October 3, 2017)
Fiction * Beginning Reader *
Audience: Ages 6 to 9
Indiebound | WorldCat
Teacher's Guide
Description from Chronicle Books:
In this heartwarming sequel to Laurel Snyder's beginning chapter book Charlie & Mouse, the two brothers enjoy a special visit from their grandpa, Grumpy. Follow along as they discuss being medium, pounce each other, sing the wrong songs, build blanket forts, and more. Paired with effervescent illustrations by Emily Hughes, this touching, funny celebration of imagination and bonding will enchant readers young and old.
Quick thoughts about the book:
Laurel Snyder entered the world of early readers with her first book, Charlie & Mouse back in April. Well, Charlie and Mouse are back and this time are joined by their grandfather, Grumpy.
Sometimes sequels don't live up to the original and sometimes they exceed their predecessor. Snyder manages to exceed my expectations and I love this book. The first story in the book is called "Medium". The exchange between Mouse (the younger of the two) and Grumpy about being "medium" is so pitch perfect in how the exchange is portrayed.
One of my favorite parts of the exchange is below:
Mouse though again.
"When you are medium, you can swim.
But your mom sits on the steps and watches.
Just in case."
"Ahh," said Grumpy. "It sounds very nice to be medium."
"It is," said Mouse.
In addition, to very touching interactions between two brothers and their grandfather, I appreciated how the text and illustrations worked together and how the text has a pattern that makes reading the story accessible while providing some challenges for students growing as readers.
Thank you Laurel for capturing the relationship between children and their grandpa through a series of just perfect vignettes.
Look for Charlie & Mouse & Grumpy at your local indie bookstore or community library.
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