Fox & Rabbit Make Believe (Fox & Rabbit #2)

Gr 2-4--Fox and Rabbit are back with five more stories of adventure, friendship, and food. Whether they are navigating a corn maze or buying ice cream, they are inseparable. Other friends come and go, including flaky Sparrow, perpetually late Tortoise, and inanimate stuffed lion Fred. Though the animals express different preferences, they are sensitive to each other's feelings--after a bubble gum incident results in Fox's fur getting trimmed embarrassingly short, Rabbit gives an effective pep talk. The arrival of an imaginative new friend, Owl, results in make-believe situations that see artist Dudás using colors and hatching that differ from the usual outdoor greenery. Fox and Rabbit are mindful about making their games inclusive for other animals. Although the book contains a couple of references to the previous work, such as the animals' lemonade stand, and a wink to the reader about words that start with the letter F, this is a fine entry point into a world of inviting games and alliterative wordplay. VERDICT Confectionary days of ice cream and playgrounds, coupled with cooperation and respectful communication, make this an easy recommendation for young readers.--Thomas Maluck, Richland Lib., SC