Book Buddies!

With some of the books I've read, there are some definite similarities in plot/setting/characters. I call these perfect pairings "Book Buddies." Because they get along so well. Obviously.

Oldies: Nate the Great

Nate the Great
Written by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat, illustrated by Marc Simont

Coward, McCann & Geoghegan (1972)
Age: 5 - 9 years
Genre: Mystery

Themes: detective, casework, missing, pancakes,

Nate the Great, lover of pancakes, is an excellent detective who prefers to work alone. This time, he is in charge of locating a lost painting created by his friend, Annie. By asking the right questions, gathering the facts, and narrowing the suspects, he just may solve this case. Perhaps even find a missing cat while he's at it (he is that good).

It's genius. It really is. First, the stories are short, simple mysteries that encourage the reader to think. The writing, though, is really what makes this book a favorite: Nate the Great is a tough, no nonsense detective. His short sentences and simple words not only fit his character, but help young kids as they're learning to read. It's just perfect! Plus it's part of a whole series, so kids can just keep following their favorite detective.

In case you're curious, my rating is: ★★★★★

Find it at your library, or on Amazon

Oldies: Olivia Sharp

And, as a bonus...
Did you know Nate the Great has a cousin?

Olivia Sharp: Agent for Secrets
Written by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat, and Mitchell Sharmat
Illustrated by Denise Brunkus

Delacorte Books (1989)
Age: 6 - 10 years
Genre: Mystery

Themes: friendship, money, secrets,

Olivia lives in a penthouse in San Francisco and has two rooms: one to be herself in, the other to be an Agents of Secrets. She helps people solve their problems and keep their secrets. Today, she's helping Duncan find his lost best friend. Maybe money can solve it?

Rather disappointing for Nate the Great's cousin... She isn't actually, technically, a detective; she tries to solve problems with money or various other solutions until one of them finally works. Lame, right? It is the next level up from Nate the Great, though, with the story broken up into chapters. But still. I think there's a reason only four books were written for this series.

In case you're wondering, my rating is: ★★

If you really want to, find it at your library or on Amazon

Storytime: Dr. Seuss

This storytime was for a preschool-aged group at my library.