Chester Raccoon and the Almost Perfect Sleepover (The Kissing Hand)

PreS-Gr 1--The creators of Kissing Hand for Chester Raccoon and its sequels have collaborated on a title that offers reassurance to young ones eager to attend their first sleepover. Initially, the plot setup is confusing because Mother Raccoon calls the adventure an "overday" rather than a "sleepover," as in the title. Youngsters familiar with the kissing hand from the original book will see Chester's mother repeat her parting gesture as she leaves her son with Mrs. Opossum for his first whole day away from home. While Chester has a perfectly enjoyable time with Pepper Opossum and all his other friends, when they pause from all the activities to take a nap, Chester can't sleep, no matter how hard he tries. Wise Mother Opossum then asks him if he'd like to go home to his own hollow. Adults and children will recognize the excellent examples of politeness and good manners. One minor quibble is the unusual side story about Sassafras Skunk, who makes "stinky puffs," illustrated with a hazy purple cloud, when she is nervous or giggly or sleepy. This departure from the plot detracts from the main focus of the narrative. VERDICT While listeners will relate to the idea of a youngster going on his first sleepover, this selection may not be as popular as Penn's original book. An additional purchase.--Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA

Chester Raccoon spends an eventful "overday" with some of his forest friends, but when it comes time to sleep, the "Kissing Hand" tradition he shares with his mother isn't quite enough to soothe him. The story itself is somewhat drawn out (there are three separate gags relating to Sassafras Skunk's tendency to "stinky puff" at inopportune times), and Gibson's artwork can feel posed and static. Chester ultimately leaves the sleepover early and is welcomed home by his mother, a resolution that should reassure timid readers who aren't always as brave or independent as they would like to be. Ages 3-7. (May)