Kirby Larson

Shermy is dismayed when Shake comes to stay next door for the summer (the book is divided into three sections - June, July, August - with three chapters in each section). Shermy is a quiet kid who enjoys reading library books; his room is tidy and he keeps a pouch of treasures around his neck. He dislikes wearing his glasses. Shake, on the other hand, shakes up everything around him; he's a whirlwind of energy, and likes making the rules. Shake often rubs Shermy the wrong way, but the two sometimes have fun together too. By the end of the summer, when Shake's mom and stepdad come to pick him up from his Grandma's house, they are sad to leave each other. The story concludes with a postcard from Shake to Shermy, alluding to a move - possibly nearby (and an opportunity for a sequel).

Shermy was pretty sure he'd forgotten how to read without getting interrupted by Shake. (69)

See also: Ivy & Bean by Annie Barrows, Charlie & Mouse by Laurel Snyder… (more)

Normally I don't care for animal stories, particularly those based on true events. They tend to be too sweet, too nostalgic, too moralistic. A colleague highly recommended the story so I felt the need to give it a try. Thankfully this tale of friendship between a cat and dog is just right in all three areas. These tail-less pets (hence the "bob" names) keep each other company, and perhaps help each other survive during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. Gouache illustrations are realistic.… (more)