One Funny Day (Pearl and Wagner)

One Funny Day (Pearl and Wagner)

by Kate McMullan
Illustration by R.W. Alley

Pearl and Wagner are back, and they are full of secrets: Wagner tells Pearl an embarrassing secret, Pearl tells Wagner a surprising secret, and Lulu tells Wagner a secret that turns out not to be a secret at all. On a school field trip and at a birthday party, Pearl and Wagner learn that some secrets can bring friends closer together, while others can cause all sorts of trouble. In the end, no secret will ever come between Pearl and Wagner! Beginning readers will laugh and recognize a little of themselves on every page of this charming, warm, and funny book about friendship.

Simple vocabulary and adorable animal characters make this easy-to-read book about April Fool's Day pranks a favorite among early readers. Children will relate to the school setting and many of the emotions that the title character and mouse, Wagner, feels throughout the day. From being confused about what is and isn't a prank to being left out of the dance by his best friend, Pearl, to finally playing a practical joke of his own, kids will sympathize with the lovable rodent. The illustrations enhance the story and perfectly capture the emotions.

The sentences and chapters are short enough that young readers will be able to help you read the story. With many easy to sound out words, kids will be able to feel a sense of achievement while reading this book and parents can provide a little assistance on the bigger words. With a handy three chapter format, kids can choose to tackle the book in one sitting or come back to it over the course of three days.

When I was young, I remember reading these type of books and loving them. The book has easy-to-follow stories about topics children relate to and lovable characters that make you want to turn the page to find out what happens.

--Abby