LEROY NINKER SADDLES UP by Kate DiCamillo

Leroy Ninker, reformed thief from the Mercy Watson series, is a cowboy in need of a horse - and he finds Maybelline through a newspaper ad. She may be old and missing some teeth, but Leroy loves her. There are three rules to life with Maybelline, though, and there will be trouble if Leroy forgets them.

Cute story that will appeal to fans of the Mercy Watson series as well as readers who are ready for illustrated transitional chapter books. My students who have been begging for more Mercy Watson stories will be pleased to get this in our library.

3 out of 5 stars
AR Reading level of 3.7

* I received an electronic copy of this book from the publisher for free in the hope that I would review it honestly on my blog. Regardless, I only review books I enjoyed. I don’t believe in passing on negative reviews. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

JUDY MOODY AND FRIENDS by Megan McDonald

  

Megan McDonald introduces a new transitional chapter book series starring Judy Moody and her friends. The first book focuses on Jessica Finch, her love of pigs, and a misunderstanding between Jessica and Judy (AR reading level of 2.5). The second book focuses on Rocky Zang, a magic show, and his not-so-fabulous assistant, Judy Moody (AR reading level of 2.7). The stories are fun and address the ups and downs that can come in friendships. I am excited to introduce these to my younger students who are ready to stretch their reading skills but aren't quite ready for the length of a full chapter book. Students who enjoy the Mercy Watson series and the Branches line of transitional chapter books might enjoy these. Two more books in the series will release in September. Pictures of those covers are posted below.

4 out of 5 stars