Valenslime (Frankenslime #2)

Victoria, an exuberant Black girl who loves to experiment with slime, calls herself a “slime scientist.” She and her friend, Goop, a giant slime blob, love to read science stories together. As Victoria makes Valentine’s cards for her school friends, readers learn through detailed illustrations and text that Goop wants another friend. Can Victoria experiment and make a friend for Goop? Keller takes readers on a hysterical rollercoaster ride of action while Victoria tinkers with different recipes of slime. She records all her observations, like a true scientist. Finally, Victoria and her dog Igor realize they’ve made many friends for Goop. This vibrant book is filled with eye-catching illustrations that will leave children yearning for more. Using a mix of bright colors and a variety of digitally created art, Belote taps into every child’s imagination. The author and illustrator also blend in Victoria’s handwriting all over the walls with her scientific observations. Keller uses developmentally appropriate text that early readers know, combined with multisyllabic adjectives like “splattered and sparkled” to make for a joyful reading experience. Classic Frankenstein hints dropped in the book make this a fun read for all ages. Back matter includes some of Victoria’s favorite slime recipes, so readers can make their own valenslimes. VERDICT A must for early childhood librarians, teachers, parents, and readers. —Kelly Richards

Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission

Victoria is a wonderful, inquisitive protagonist of color with a warm heart, and three of her amazing slime recipes are appended.