Nate Likes to Skate

PreS-Gr 1--Nate is all about skateboarding, while his friend Kate has a penchant for ostentatious headwear. At first, Nate tells Kate he hates her hat and she tells him she hates to skate, but after admitting that they were both "brats," they resolve their differences and can appreciate each other's special interests. While Degen doesn't go so far as to reverse the gender roles in this early reader, he at least depicts the friends easily adopting the other's stereotypical hobbies. Graphite and colored pencil illustrations lend a soft, accessible feel to the story, and brief conflict with a satisfying resolution makes this ideal for very young readers. The picture book-style trim size also makes this a good transition book for brand-new readers. VERDICT A great choice for sports-loving newbie readers.--Jenna Boles, Greene County Public Library, Beavercreek, OH