Flop to the Top!
(Toon Books Level 3)

Davis (Stinky) and husband Weing have likely set a record for the number of selfies taken in a children's book with the introduction of Wanda, a self-described superstar who essentially sees herself as the next Beyonce. With sienna skin and a hairdo like an exclamation point, Wanda considers her younger siblings and her pet dog, Wilbur, to be "fans," and she never misses an episode of The Star Show, which celebrates the hottest personalities of the moment (a spot currently held by "Sassy Cat"). After Wanda uploads a selfie featuring herself and Wilbur, it's her pet who goes viral, as news trucks and phone-wielding fans descend on the house to see "Floppy Dog." Hell hath no fury like a wannabe celebrity scorned, but as Floppy Dog is whisked off to dance clubs, expensive restaurants, and a yacht (with Sassy Cat, no less!), Wanda's anger morphs to concern and repentance. Chunky digital illustrations playfully spoof the lifestyles of the rich and famous (Floppy Dog is quickly adorned with sunglasses and jeweled chains), but Davis and Weing never lose sight of the story's emotional underpinnings. Ages 5-up. (Sept.)

Copyright 2015 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Gr 1-3--This is the story of Wanda, a celebrity-worshipping, self(ie)-obsessed little girl who thinks she's quite special--a star, in fact--and whose siblings and beloved dog are her most devoted fans (at least in Wanda's own mind). After she posts a picture of her floppy-faced bulldog, Wilbur, on social media, the image goes viral. Soon news vans and internet fans are on Wanda's front lawn, but it's not her they're eager to see--it's Wilbur. The pup is whisked away via limo to party with the glitterati and fellow Internet star Sassy Cat. Suddenly finding herself on the outskirts of her doggy's newfound fame, Wanda's in for a reality check. The petulant young celebrity-wannabe eventually finds a little humility, and her attitude changes. Lively cartoon art in bold, warm tones captures Wanda's frenetic energy, whose towering afro puff and wide-eyed smile will endear her to readers--despite her exasperating bossiness. Davis and Weing vary panel sizes and perspectives on almost each spread, lending the compositions an appropriately busy feel. Young readers capable of appreciating the irony of Wanda's tone-deaf interactions (for instance, a photo of Wanda smiling widely with her annoyed little siblings in the background is labeled "Starstruck!") will giggle when the protagonist gets her comeuppance and appreciate her eventual change of heart. VERDICT A chuckle-worthy tale for young comics fans.--Kiera Parrott, School Library Journal

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.