(2) 1-3 2nd-Grade Friends series. Illustrated by Peter Catalanotto. Emily's Pop-Pop is coming in to talk to her class about Veterans Day. She's worried, though, because he has narcolepsy, falling asleep at unexpected times. Frequent black-and-white illustrations keep readers involved and move the story to its brisk resolution. Emily's love for Pop-Pop is warm and respectful, and it's nice to meet her strongly individualized, opinionated grandfather.

Reviewer: Robin L. Smith | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2008

(3) 1-3 2nd-Grade Friends series. Illustrated by Peter Catalanotto. Emily and Vinni are best friends. When Vinni misses Emily's birthday party without any explanation, a rift in their friendship occurs. To make things worse, Vinni, jealous of all the post-party talk, ruins Emily's class pumpkin. The frustrations and emotions of both girls, shown in the sketchy black-and-white drawings, are realistic for the age group.

Reviewer:

(2) 1-3 2nd-Grade Friends series. Illustrated by Peter Catalanotto. Small changes threaten to derail second-grader Emily. This promising new series captures moments of anxiety in an elementary school day. While adults might dismiss these worries, the authors show them for what they are: important, sometimes overwhelming concerns. Expressive black-and-white illustrations help keep the story straight; an eye-pleasing font and generous white space will encourage youngsters to keep reading.

Reviewer: Robin L. Smith | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2006