Waldo, Steph. Tiny Tales: A Feast for Friends. Steph Waldo, Illus. Easy Reader. Harper Alley, 01/2022. 32pp. $16.99. 978-0-06-306786-8. PB $4.99. 978-0-06-306786-8. I Can Read Comics Series, Level 3; bk. 2. HIGH ADDITIONAL. GRADES 1-3.
Using paneled artwork and dialogue balloons, this beginning reader will appeal to comic book and graphic novel fans. Snail spots an apple in a tree and attempts to pick the apple as a surprise for his forest friends. He succeeds only when he allows a group of other critters to assist, including a caterpillar, ladybug, worm, and insects. The text is set down in dialogue balloons and features considerable onomatopoeia, such as scoot, plop, snip, and more. The cartoon artwork is dominated by earthtones, including browns and greens. The comic format and appearance will appeal to a wide audience, including struggling readers.
Penny Peck, San Jose State University, iSchool