Common Sense Media Review
An appealing story with a universal theme.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 2+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
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.
Is It Any Good?
The author humorously addresses the childhood issues of resistance to change and accepting new people. Parents will appreciate that Kevin 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.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about getting to know people. Have you ever had to adapt to a new person in your life? What happened?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Kevin Henkes
- Genre : Picture Book
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : William Morrow
- Publication date : January 1, 1988
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 2 - 4
- Number of pages : 28
- Last updated : July 12, 2017
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