There are four short seasonal stories in this colourful beginner chapter book. Agnes is a little pig and Clarabelle is a chicken and they are the best of friends. I especially liked the way each story had an unexpected ending. Yes the stories do meet the criteria of "happily every after" but things don't always feel perfect and this is okay.
1. Spring: Surprise Party
It's Clarabelle's birthday. She'd love a "surprise" party. The pair work out the plan for the venue, food, decorations, games and guests. BUT Clarabelle has one big worry. What if her friend Willa forgets to come? The party is a huge success but indeed Willa does not arrive. "That's okay ... even if my birthday's not perfect, it's still perfect."
2. Summer: Beach Day
Agnes does not like new experiences, she does not want to go to the beach. Clarabelle is such a great friend and she works so hard to make the day wonderful. When they arrive Clarabelle just cannot go onto the sand or into the water. Agnes decides to set up their towels and umbrella in the carpark. It's not quite perfect but it's close enough.
3. Fall: New Sneakers
Clarabelle needs new sneakers. Her toes are peeking through the old ones so the pair of friends head off to the big department store. Clarabelle is scared but Agnes promises to stay close. In all the crowds the pair are separated. Clarabelle is frantic. She cannot find her friend. Agnes is a resourceful friend. She uses the store announcement system to guide Clarabelle back to the main floor and the information desk. Clarabelle finds her way but she is so upset she cannot focus on sneakers. No problem Agnes has a spare pair which will be just fine.
4. Winter: Perfect Pizza
Making pizza is a great idea with chestnuts, popcorn, cheese and white chocolate chips. It looks too good to eat!
Read the Kirkus review. And one in the School Library Journal. You can see some work by the illustrator Sara Palacios on her web site. Here is the second book about this pair of unlikely (but very special) friends.
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