Sam and Charlie: (and Sam Too!)

Gr 1–3—The opening-Leviticus 19:18, "Love your neighbor as yourself"-sets the theme as children quickly form a friendship. Sam meets two sisters, Charlie and Sam, referred to as Sam Too, when the girls move in next door, and each of the five stories focuses on an aspect of a universal experience. In "Sick Day," Sam tries to comfort Charlie, who is ill, but his thoughtful attempts fall flat, and he learns that giving flowers to someone who is allergic is not the best idea. The friends' interactions focus on common themes, such as competition and tact; their Jewish faith is lightly infused in their discussion of holidays, religious traditions, and food. Dialogue emphasizes the youngsters' relationship throughout. Color cartoon illustrations keep the fresh, angular characters the central focus. Simple musings occasionally provide a didactic slant. For example, on Yom Kippur, "They promised each other they'd try harder and be even better friends in the coming year." This early chapter book is an overly earnest exploration of childhood experiences.—Meg Smith, Cumberland County Public Library, Fayetteville, NC