Flappy and Scrappy

K-Gr 2—The first chapter in this beginning reader introduces two endearing pups. As Flappy strolls across the barnyard to meet her friend Scrappy, she greets animals eating, and because their mouths are full, she hears Pig say, "Hi-ho, Fatty!" She hears Cow say," "Moo-moo, Frumpy." Pig squeals, "Ga-ga, Grumpy!" and Bird says, "Ya-ya, go away!" With each greeting, she becomes sadder and sadder because it seems that no one likes her, so she is happy when Scrappy drops his biscuit to greet her by name. In the second chapter, Flappy wants to play catch, but the other animals want to eat grass instead. In the end, Scrappy comes through. In the third chapter, Scrappy searches for someone to say "Happy Birthday" to him and finds a surprise waiting at his house. Emerging readers will enjoy the Ivanovs' cheerful, expressive illustrations, which are thoughtfully placed with the text in spot or full-spread layouts. Beginning readers in the city, suburbs, or country will enjoy these engaging animals and the very simple text.—Laura Scott, Farmington Community Library, MI