Mabel Makes (^Up) a Friend

Gr 1-3–Mabel’s new school year is challenging in many ways, from her teacher who, according to Mabel, is focused only on homework, to her new house and bus route, to her family’s other responsibilities. Mabel is feeling left out and struggles to share her hardships when she notices an elephant who is learning what it takes to be an imaginary friend. This title is a unique addition for those moving beyond early reader graphic novels but who aren’t quite ready for denser panels and more text. Mabel and her family don’t look traditionally human with their stick figure limbs, but are illustrated to show great expressions. Mister Elephant is reminiscent of Gerald from Mo Willems’s “Piggie and Elephant” and is often surrounded by bright colors and humor that ease what can be a lonely time for kids who are feeling overlooked and overwhelmed by change. The book is strengthened by the unique choice to add arrows with text tags to offer additional information or explanation. For example, readers will get a giggle from an illustration of Mister Elephant hidden in a box, with a label pointed to it reading, “if he fits, he sits.” Mabel’s big feelings and Mister Elephants friendship are genuine and will be fun to read as they move onto additional titles in this new series. Mabel and her family are white with more diversity among the students at Mabel’s school.