Shai & Emmie Star in To the Rescue!

Gr 2–4—Shai volunteers to head up her orchestra's benefit concert for homeless animals. Meanwhile, her veterinarian mother heads out of town and a mystery creature keeps appearing in her family's garden. Suddenly, Shai finds herself with a long to-do list and important decisions to make. The text is simple enough for children beginning to read longer chapter books independently: it could serve as a great bridge between early and middle grade chapter books. The plot is divided into scenes as opposed to chapters, which could serve as a teaching point for children unfamiliar with theater and film. Readers will relate to Shai and Emmie's friendship and the musical aspects of this book, namely the need to practice in order to improve. Also worthy of note is the lesson Shai and Emmie learn about the different needs of wild animals versus pets.