Common Sense Note
An appealing story with a universal theme engages readers. Colorful spot illustrations are humorous but lack the sparkle of full-page spreads.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Sally Snyder
The author addresses the childhood issues of resistance to change and accepting new people. Lily rescues Chester and Wilson from older bullies, thus beginning their friendship. The trio discovers they have some things in common, a night-light and a Muscle Mouse cup. One seven-year-old reader laughed and pointed out that they seemed so different but still had things in common.
Parents will appreciate that Henkes includes two-way exchanges between the characters. Lily teaches Chester and Wilson how to pop wheelies and talk backward, while they teach Lily how to double-knot her shoes and how to use hand signals. Readers will chuckle when they learn at story's end that the cycle will continue with the arrival of another new kid.
Most pages have a series of small illustrations framed by the white background, but one larger illustration occasionally dominates the page. The watercolor-and-ink paintings skillfully convey the calm and sedate pair juxtaposed with vivacious Lilly. One or both of the boys are reading Advanced Croquet Tips or Bike Safety books in two illustrations.
Older readers will enjoy these witty additions to the story, but younger ones won't notice them and may be a bit confused by so many illustrations per page. For a different look at the impact of a new friend, try Ebb and Flo and the New Friend, by Jane Simmons.
From The Book
In spring, Chester and Wilson shared the same umbrella. In winter, they never threw snowballs at each other. In fall, they raked leaves together. And in summer, they reminded each other to wear sunscreen so they wouldn't burn. Chester and Wilson, Wilson and Chester. That's the way it was. And then Lilly moved into the neighborhood.
Plot Summary:
I am Lily! I am the Queen! I like EVERYTHING! Chester and Wilson are surprised when exuberant Lilly moves into their neighborhood. They've done everything together, in their own way. Now Lilly introduces daring new ways! The humor strikes a chord with children, and the spot illustrations convey each mouse's feelings and actions but are not as engaging as larger paintings.
Rate It!
| Content | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CS | adults | kids | ||
Sexual Content |
 |
|||
Violence |
|
|||
Language |
|
|||
Message |
|
|||
Social Behavior |
 |
|||
Commercialism |
|
|||
Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco |
|
|||
