Joe Pidge Flips a Lid

Joe Pidge and Pluto Rocket are back “rocking the scene” and “being best friends” as Pluto continues the secret mission they began in New in Town “to find out what life is like around here” on earth. The graphic novel is divided into 3 short chapters. In their first adventure, the sudden loss of Joe’s signature green hat brings with it learnings about what truly makes everyone special and unique. In the next chapter, readers meet grumpy Jelly Bob who, to Joe’s horror, thinks the neighbourhood is dirty and boring. Jelly Bob’s negativity and Pluto’s positivity make Joe realize that it’s time to explore outside the neighbourhood. In their final adventure, Joe and Pluto support one another to be brave in the face of uncertainty and to strike out of their comfort zone and into the wider world. Joe and Pluto’s friendship is strengthened in each chapter by their communication and teamwork. Gilligan gently pairs every life lesson they learn with humour that ensures dry didacticism is avoided. The brightly saturated illustrations continue to please the eye and add fun visual breadcrumbs for the observant reader.

Joe Pidge Flips a Lid is a worthy second installment in the delightful Pluto Rocket series.