Jelly Bean

Gr 1–3—Second-grader Suzannah longs for a pet of her own, but her building doesn't allow animals. She hesitantly joins the Shelter Pet Squad, a group of animal-loving kids who make treats and toys for the dogs, cats, and other animals at the local shelter. Suzannah adores helping out, and she and the other kids quickly become friends. When a family brings in a guinea pig, Jelly Bean, that they have to give up, Suzannah makes it her personal mission to find him a home. She manages to rescue him from becoming snake food, and with the help of the entire Shelter Pet Squad, Jelly Bean ends up with the perfect owner. Suzannah never gets a pet, but this heartwarming early chapter book reminds readers that good friends and the chance to make a positive difference are often closer than they may believe. Upbeat and relatable, this promises to be the start to a series that will win over young animal enthusiasts. Occasional black-and-white illustrations break up the text, and back matter includes instructions for making simple pet toys.—Amanda Struckmeyer, Middleton Public Library, Madison, WI