April & Mae and the Animal Shelter: The Thursday Book, by Megan Dowd Lambert , Briana Dengoue (Illustrations)

I like how the book ends by asking readers for other ways they can think of to help. I could envision the discussions this might generate, not to mention the creative ideas. I bet the adults helping the beginning readers, about ages 5-6, will have a few, too., by

I'm unfamiliar with this beginning reader chapter book series but as a former teacher imagined it could be a fun tool and read. The illustrations are basic by design and colorful, plus there is a great deal of repetition of words for beginning readers. It was also a real plus to see not just best friends of different races but best friends seemingly welcomed into the other friend's home, too. Even the use of different kinds of pets, both a dog and cat, was a subtle but effective means of communication that we're all in this together. I did wonder why the pets seemed nameless but then decided that might actually be a nice touch. Rather than arguing whether they liked the name choices or not, young readers could be asked what they'd call the different pets and, maybe more importantly, what their reasoning behind a name choice might be.

Thanks #NetGalley and #Charlesbridge for introducing me to this fun little series. I particularly liked that while it notes there are many ways to be involved and help, basically every little bit helps. Even as adults we tend to be overwhelmed with all that is needed in all world, so a timely reminder.