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CM . . . . Volume XXIV Number 30. . . .April 6, 2018
excerpt:
Ira Crumb Makes a Pretty Good Friend, by comedy writer Naseem Hrab and illustrated by Josh Holinaty, is a book that any �new kid� will be able to relate to, whether young or old. Hrab uses simple, fun language and comic like prose to keep young readers entertained. Ira is ��trustworthy. He�s always super helpful� (pp. 3-4). However, being the new kid in town, he�s forced to �eat alone at lunch� (p. 8), and, therefore, he decides to come up with some interesting ways of making friends. These ways include dance parties, sandwiches, and �show[ing] everyone how cool he is� (p. 15). Along with Hrab�s description of Ira, there are comic style depictions of his adventures on each page. As each page turns, more characters (including a talking sandwich) are introduced, all of which are sure to engage readers of all types. This story is one with an all too familiar feel of being �new� � but with an ending that sheds a positive light on being a newcomer.
Naseen Hrab�s Ira Crumb Makes a Pretty Good Friend would be a welcome addition on any bookshelf. This story is perfect to be read to (or by) any young student entering a new town, school, or club. Highly Recommended. Nikita Griffioen is a high school teacher in Abbotsford, BC. She writes and illustrates her own stories which she hopes to have published one day.
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- April 6, 2018. |
Holinaty�s illustrations are bright, vibrant, and full of energy. Holinaty�s drawing style is reminiscent of Raina Telgemeier; the comic illustrations are full of movement and expression. The illustrations are not constrained to any one piece of the page; rather, they are perfectly intertwined with the story. Holinaty�s art is the perfect match for Hrab�s sweet (and funny!) story.