Erin Soderberg

Willa loves getting treasure that falls into the Monkey Pit at the zoo even if it means she has to climb onto the ledge to get it. Getting in trouble for going on the ledge means that mama takes her dangly earring treasure. Thinking of an idea to get it back, Carter, a little boy, comes to look at the Monkey Pit and has a conversation with her. He also leaves his new backpack and he needs it for school tomorrow so Willa decides to leave the zoo and find Carter.

I enjoyed this story. I found it fun and interesting. I liked that Willa made friends outside of the zoo. The best ones were the chipmunks. Exploring the world outside the zoo was fascinating as Willa learned what was good and what was unsafe. Meeting some mean critters and people taught her to hide but she does not let it deter her quest. The other characters, especially Carter, are good. Villains abound as Willa tries to help. A good story for beginning readers.… (more)

This book was adorable! I'm always on the lookout for transition books, those stories that bring young readers from picture books into the world of chapter books. When I was offered Puppy Pirates: Catnapped! for review, I eagerly snatched it up! Pirates, puppies and kittens? I'm honestly not sure there's anything more adorable to be added.

While this book is the third in a series, it's not hard to pick it up and just start reading along. I was introduced to the crew of The Salty Bone, a pirate ship full of adorable puppies and one lucky little boy. Sailing the seas, having all manner of adventures, and getting into the type of mischief that will made young readers giggle with delight. I admit, I'm an adult and I was smiling. It's hard not to.

The balance between illustrations and story are spot on, as are the length of the chapters themselves. I picture this as the perfect story to read before bed over a few evenings. It even has that sweet little lesson that comes along with most books aimed at this age group, and it isn't too heavy handed. Final verdict? Adorable! I'd recommend this to readers in transition who love adventure and excitement!… (more)