Earl & Worm #1: The Bad Idea and Other Stories

PreS-Gr 2–Pizzoli brings the trademark dry humor from his picture books and graphic novels to the early reader stage in this series debut. Earl and Worm are an odd couple in the tradition of Frog and Toad or Elephant and Piggie, and their progression from reluctant neighbors to best buddies is told with perfect comic pacing over the course of three stories. Young readers will relate to Worm’s indignation when Earl copies her good ideas, and Earl’s tireless optimism will charm audiences as it gradually endears him to Worm. Subtle halftone shading adds a touch of comic book style to the bold digital illustrations. Perceptive readers may notice visual nods to other favorite books, including Pizzoli’s own Geisel Award winner The Watermelon Seed. Just as his picture books are a popular crossover choice for emerging readers, Pizzoli’s first dedicated early reader is well suited to shared reading, and individual chapters could even be used in story hours and other group settings. It’s sure to be a hit with a broad range of fans.