Travis Jonker, who blogs at 100 Scope Notes, is one of this year’s panelists for Fiction Picture Books. An elementary school librarian for the past three years, he posts children’s literature news and reviews, including old favorites as well as great new books; brief interviews with authors called "5 Questions;" and links of interest to children’s literature fans.
In his review of Cesar Takes a Break, written by Susan Collins Thoms and illustrated by Rogé Sterling, Travis describes this silly but fun title that will no doubt appeal to any kid reader concerned with the welfare of the class pet–whether it’s a hamster, a gerbil, or, in this case, an iguana:
Class pets maintain a pretty high profile in schools. Love ‘em or not, they instantly capture kid’s affection upon entering a classroom. Cesar Takes a Break focuses on one such animal and his adventures over spring break. Kids who like a touch of ridiculousness in their books will be pleased.
To read more about this book and its unique "first-iguana narration," read the full review here.