You're Doing THAT in the Talent Show?

K-Gr 2—Exuberant Penelope, a hippo, and her reserved mouse friend, Tiny, are back, and this time Tiny is trying to tone down Penelope's plans for the school talent show. His distressed expressions speak volumes as readers see, via thought bubbles, how he envisions himself serving as Penelope's ballet partner and being squashed behind her in the school chorus. Undaunted, Penelope exclaims, "Oh, yes, yes!" while trying out various dances and donning fairy tale costumes. Tiny, however, responds, "Oh, no, no!," certain he doesn't want to be entangled in Rapunzel's hair, become a pint-sized Jack facing a Giant Penelope, or be a Riding Hood menaced by Penelope Wolf. He nixes all her circus act suggestions, too, and finally determines that although it would be fun to perform together, they should each do their own thing. Tiny will sing in the chorus and Penelope prepares her "ballet-Rapunzel-trapeze act." A four-spread gate fold depicts Tiny disentangling her wig in a daring aerial rescue. Cornelison's brightly colored cartoon illustrations capture the different personalities of the two friends right from the opening spread. Penelope, dressed in a top studded with stars and polka dots, a flouncy skirt, and striped pants, stands arms outspread, her wide open mouth exclaiming, "YIPPEE!" Tiny, in a plain yellow shirt and blue pants, stands with his finger to his lips as he tries to quiet her. Youngsters will enjoy chiming in on the repeated phrases and giggle at Penelope's over-the-top costumes. The addendum "Tips for a Spectacular Performance" is a helpful bonus.