Stink and the Hairy Scary Spider

June 1, 2020
Stink returns to battle arachnophobia. Judy Moody's little brother, Stink, returns for another scientific adventure, this time battling his long-held fear of spiders. After crafting a jumping origami frog, Stink brings his project to the backyard to give it a test hop. Stink's frog leaps out of sight, and while looking for it, Stink comes across a hairy, pink-toed spider. A timorous Stink seeks out Judy's help to find his origami frog, and Judy does him one better: The siblings put in the work to cure Stink of his fear. Those familiar with the Judy Moody and Stink books will find more of the same here, with Reynolds' broad, round illustrations accompanying McDonald's charmingly optimistic characters. Newcomers will be able to slide in with ease; there's no extensive backstory here to wade through--just some quirky kids dealing with a common fear. The reading level is pitched to those just beginning to dip their toes in the chapter-book pool. Judy and Stink are white, but there's a bit of diversity in the supporting cast. The book includes origami instructions in its end pages. More of the same, but here that's a good thing. (Fiction. 7-11)

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August 1, 2020

K-Gr 3-Stink returns in a creepy, crawly tarantula tale. One day while out in the yard, Stink is startled by a gigantic, menacing, pink-toed spider. Stink immediately runs inside. At first his family members do not believe him-whoever heard of a spider with pink toes? Luckily Stink's friend Webster, a spider expert, is available for consultation. Realizing that the pink-toed spider must be an escaped tarantula embarking on a wild adventure, the pair endeavor to overcome Stink's arachnophobia and stage a daring spider rescue. Stink is a completely endearing character. Many readers will relate to his calculation that slugs, bugs, and worms are all acceptable creatures for a yard, but spiders are much too creepy. Brave Stink is determined to overcome his fear of spiders. The accessible text is perfect for young readers and uses frequently repeated words and phrases. Short chapters delineate the story and provide an opportunity for Reynolds to showcase his marvelous and goofy illustrations. VERDICT Hand this to fans of the "Stink" series or any spider-loving early reader. Recommended for purchase.-Laken Hottle, Providence Community Lib.

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