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Reviewed by:
  • Fergus and Zeke by Kate Messner
  • Kate Quealy-Gainer
Messner, Kate Fergus and Zeke; illus. by Heather Ross. Candlewick, 2017 [56p]
ISBN 978-0-7636-7846-3 $14.99
Reviewed from galleys         R Gr. 1-3

Fergus the mouse is an ace class pet: he follows the rules, he listens to directions, he tidies his cage when Miss Maxwell calls for cleanup time. He's therefore certain he should be included when students and Miss Maxwell head out for their field trip to the museum, so he snags a ride on Emma's backpack. Once at the museum, Zeke, a mouse who lives there, happily shows Fergus around, and what follows is the dream of all young field trippers as the mice scamper through and explore the exhibits, without adult supervision and without regard for the "people rules." The four chapters of this easy reader zip right along with a straightforward, breezy plot and two charming, mischievous mice leading the way. Fergus plays the worrywart to Zeke's more carefree ways, and though the ending leans more toward the messagey than the fun, the humor is sufficient to carry the day. The art's peppy lines and occasional plays on perspective support but never overwhelm the text. Short sentences, some stealthy repetition, and a host of sight words give plenty of scaffolding to young readers, and this might also make a diverting readaloud before a class trip—just make sure to de-emphasize Zeke's laissez-faire attitude toward rules. [End Page 419]

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