Making the jump from a short, early reader to a chapter book is a huge milestone for the beginning reader. IVY AND BEAN makes it easier with its large-print, easy-to-follow text, expressive illustrations -- and, most importantly, two colorful 7-year-old girls. Reminiscent of the classic Beverly Cleary series about
Ramona, here's another book series about friendship, silliness, pranks, adventure, getting in trouble, and challenges with siblings, that's a sure hit with kids.
So typical of real life, these girls, who are neighbors, are urged by their respective mothers to play together. Ivy appears quiet, dainty, dutiful; and Bean is wild, dirty, and full of sass. Not until they join forces against Bean's older sister do they discover each other's unique qualities. Ivy is actually studying to become a witch. Bean knows how to move through the neighborhood via backyards. Here's to the beginning of a beautiful friendship.